Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers
South Jersey Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers
If you’re one of the millions of people who use rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, you likely appreciate the convenience and affordability they offer. With just a few taps on your smartphone, you can quickly request a ride, track your driver, and make payments—all from the app.
However, Uber and Lyft drivers, while generally vetted, do not undergo specialized driver training, which means they are just as likely as any other driver to be involved in an accident. If you’re injured while riding in a rideshare vehicle, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
The process of recovering damages can be more complicated than in a typical car accident. The South Jersey Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC can help you navigate this complex process. We will discuss the details of your case, protect your legal rights, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Uber and Lyft Accidents?
Like all drivers, Uber and Lyft drivers must obey traffic laws at all times. However, just as with other drivers, they sometimes engage in unsafe behaviors. Below are some of the most common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents:
- Distracted Driving: One of the main distractions for Uber and Lyft drivers is their smartphones, which they must frequently check to accept new rides or provide navigation. The more a driver interacts with their phone, whether by looking at the app or engaging in other personal use like texting, the higher the risk of a distracted driving accident.
- Drowsy Driving: Many rideshare drivers work long hours, sometimes holding multiple jobs to make ends meet. Fatigue can lead to impaired driving skills similar to those under the influence of alcohol, such as slower reaction times, poor decision-making, and reduced coordination.
- Aggressive Driving: Speeding, tailgating, weaving between lanes, or running red lights are all common forms of aggressive driving that increase the risk of accidents.
- Drunk or Drugged Driving: If an Uber or Lyft driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they are much more likely to cause an accident. The severity of such accidents can result in devastating injuries or even fatalities.
What Are Common Uber and Lyft Accident Injuries?
Rideshare accidents, like any car accident, can lead to a range of injuries depending on the severity of the crash. The following are some of the most common injuries passengers may experience:
- Amputations
- Back, neck, and spine injuries
- Bone fractures
- Burn injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Head and skull injuries
- Internal injuries
- Permanent nerve damage or paralysis
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Whiplash
- Wrongful death
What Steps Do I Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident in South Jersey?
If you’re involved in an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft vehicle, it’s crucial to follow these steps to protect your legal rights and maximize your chances of recovering compensation:
- Call 911: Report the accident immediately so that police and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) can respond promptly.
- Get Immediate Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to be examined by an EMT. Failing to seek medical attention could worsen your injuries and negatively affect your injury claim later.
- Collect Evidence: Take photos of your injuries, the vehicles involved, and any skid marks or debris at the scene. If there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information and whether they’d be willing to provide a statement.
- Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft: Both Uber and Lyft require drivers and passengers to report accidents. You can submit a report through the company’s app or website. If a representative from Uber or Lyft contacts you, it’s highly recommended to consult a South Jersey Uber and Lyft accident lawyer at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC before providing a statement to ensure your rights are protected.
- Keep Detailed Records: Maintain thorough records of all medical treatments, lost wages, transportation costs, and any other expenses you incur due to the accident.
What Damages May I Be Entitled to if I Am Injured in a Rideshare Accident?
The severity of an accident can sometimes mean that the insurance coverage available will not fully compensate for your losses. Additionally, insurance companies may attempt to minimize their payout to avoid large settlements. The South Jersey Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC understand the complexities of rideshare accident claims and how insurance companies try to limit their liability. We are here to fight for your legal rights and help you recover the following damages:
- All medical expenses related to your injuries.
- Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from returning to work.
- Pain and suffering related to the accident and injuries.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
Whose Insurance Will Cover My Injuries?
While Uber and Lyft are both large companies, their insurance coverage may not always fully cover the injuries and losses you suffer as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle. As with other car accidents, the party responsible for compensating you will depend on the specifics of the accident. In New Jersey, rideshare drivers are required to carry specific insurance, depending on whether they have a passenger or not:
- Passenger in the Vehicle: When a rideshare driver has a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1.5 million in coverage for bodily injury, property damage, or death, as well as $10,000 in medical coverage.
- Driver En Route to Pick Up a Passenger: If the driver is using the app to search for passengers, but there is no passenger in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft provide $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 in property damage coverage.
- Driver’s Personal Insurance: If the driver’s app is off and they are not actively looking for passengers, their personal insurance policy will cover the damages.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing an Uber or Lyft Accident Claim?
In New Jersey, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If you miss this deadline, your claim will likely be denied, and you could be barred from recovering damages. It’s crucial to file your claim before the statute of limitations expires, so it’s recommended to consult a lawyer early in the process.
South Jersey Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC Have Got You Covered
If you or someone you love was injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, don’t hesitate to contact the experienced South Jersey Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC. We will review the details of your case, identify who is at fault, and fight for the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 732-800-9474 or contact us online. Our offices are located in Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey, and we proudly serve clients across the state.
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