Determining Liability in a New Jersey Uber Accident
Ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient service, causing more and more people to use these services as their primary means of transportation. The services provided by rideshare companies range from periodic rides for special occasions to everyday transportation for many New Jersey residents. There is little doubt that the convenience of ordering a ridesharing vehicle can be appealing, but many passengers are unprepared in the event of a rideshare collision.
Who is Liable for a New Jersey Rideshare Accident?
Many people across New Jersey have been involved in a crash while riding as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft vehicle, and many pedestrians are hit by rideshare vehicles. Accident victims often wonder who is responsible, whose insurance applies, and how they will recover compensation for their injuries. It is crucial to understand the essentials of ridesharing law and how insurance applies in these cases.
Just like any other driver traveling on New Jersey roadways, Uber and Lyft drivers are required to maintain their own insurance policy. Does this mean that the driver’s personal insurance coverage will kick in for your damages? The answer is no, in most cases. Uber and Lyft drivers are independent contractors, allowing the company to claim that they are not responsible for accidents caused by rideshare drivers. This is a common position taken by rideshare companies, but it rarely works. These companies are profiting and benefiting from the work of these drivers and closely monitor their actions. In most cases, if you are involved in a rideshare accident where the rideshare driver is at fault, the rideshare company is going to be held liable for any resulting damages or injuries. Both Uber and Lyft carry corporate liability policies that cover medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and non-injury damages.
Recovering Compensation Can Be Difficult without a Personal Injury Lawyer
Because the rideshare company will likely argue your claim, it is crucial that you hire a qualified New Jersey personal injury attorney that is experienced in handling cases involving rideshare accidents. Large companies will attempt to avoid liability through certain rules and regulations, and it is crucial that you have an attorney fighting for your rights. The team at Brady Reilly & Cardoso, LLC has specific experience with ridesharing accidents and will work tirelessly to recover the full value of your claim.
New Jersey Uber Accidents
Contact our New Jersey rideshare accident attorneys today at (201) 997- 0030 if you or a loved one has been unfairly injured in a crash involving a rideshare driver.