The Process of a New Jersey Rideshare Accident Lawsuit
Following a rideshare accident, you may have suffered physical and emotional trauma and could be struggling financially as well. Understanding the process is essential if you are considering filing a New Jersey rideshare accident lawsuit to pursue compensation for your damages.
Rideshare Accident Lawsuits are Especially Challenging
All car accidents have the potential to do harm to drivers and passengers. They are, however, easier to settle than accidents involving rideshare drivers. This is because insurance matters become complicated.
The rideshare driver’s insurance may be fully responsible, partially, or not at all for the accident. At times, the insurance coverage provided by Uber or Lyft will cover the damages. Because it is confusing, it can be more of a headache to navigate than other accidents. Your New Jersey rideshare accident attorney can guide you through the entire process.
First Things First
As soon as the accident occurs, if you are capable, call 911. Report the accident and have your injuries treated. Even if you don’t feel you are injured, get checked out. See a medical professional. You will have documentation and evidence of your injuries.
If you were driving in another vehicle than the Uber or Lyft, you should contact your insurance company and let them know about the accident. If you were an Uber or Lyft passenger, it is in your best interest to hire a New Jersey rideshare accident attorney to help you to navigate the legal process and to manage your insurance concerns.
Evidence Gathering Comes Next
The next step in filing a New Jersey rideshare accident lawsuit is making sure you have the evidence necessary to prove liability and demonstrate damages. This evidence might include the following:
- Photos and videos from the scene
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Electronic evidence
- Victim testimony
- Medical evidence
- Evidence of damages
- Expert testimony
A Demand Letter is Where Negotiations Begin
Demand letters usually begin the insurance claim process. In it, your case will be stated, and evidence of liability will be provided, along with a demand for restitution. At this time, you will formally state your injuries and include all of the damages you may have suffered.
Lawsuits and the Legal Process
Some cases can be resolved through negotiations, and a formal lawsuit is not necessary. If negotiations do not bring forth the desired results, then a lawsuit may be the next step. These are some of the steps in that process:
- Juries are selected
- Each side brings its evidence and discovery.
- Either side may request that certain evidence or testimony is not used at trial.
- Opening statements by the insurance company lawyers and the victim’s lawyers introduce the case and provide an outline of what their cases will demonstrate.
- Evidence is presented, witnesses testify, and the case is laid out before the court.
- Closing statements are made by both sides. This is a last attempt to ensure the jury sees it their way.
- The jury will deliberate and determine what the Uber accident victim is due.
- The decision is handed down.
- If either side feels the decision was unfair, they have the right to appeal it.
Throughout the lawsuit, negotiations may take place to determine the terms of the insurance settlement.
Contact a New Jersey Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident, the process that it takes to pursue damages can be confusing. Our team at Brady, Reilly & Cardoso, LLC, specializes in cases just like yours. Contact us today to discuss your case.