Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are growing ever more popular with more drivers on the road and more trips logged. If you get into a car accident with an Uber driver, it's different from a crash with another passenger vehicle. In this case, you will be dealing with not only the driver, but the company behind them. Uber requires drivers to carry large liability policies; however, getting fair compensation after an accident with an Uber driver isn’t always so easy. You should consult with an experienced car accident lawyer to understand your options.
What are New Jersey’s Ridesharing Laws?
Laws related to liability coverage for rideshare accidents vary by state. In New Jersey, Uber. Lyft or other rideshare companies who are carrying a passenger in their vehicles are required to carry the following coverage for their drivers:
- $1.5 million in liability coverage designed to compensate for bodily injury, property damage, and wrongful death
- $1.5 million in underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage.
These coverage amounts are in addition to the driver’s own insurance policy and typically replace the no-fault insurance laws that otherwise apply in New Jersey. Keep in mind that these amounts kick in when the Uber driver is actively driving a passenger. Lower limits apply if the Uber or Lyft driver has his or her app turned on, is looking for a passenger, but is not actually carrying a passenger.
What to Do After a Car Accident with an Uber Driver
If you can, it’s important to gather as much evidence at the scene as you can. Because liability coverage differs depending on whether or not the Uber driver had a passenger or was looking for one, it’s especially critical to gather contact information for the passenger in the Uber as well as these tips:
- Seek medical care. The shock and trauma of the immediate aftermath of a car accident can mask injury symptoms.
- Get a police report. Call 911 and report the accident. You must get a police report for any car crash in New Jersey in which more than $500 damage is expected.
- Gather witness and driver information. Obtain contact and insurance information from the Uber driver and gather contact details for witnesses and passengers.
- Take pictures. Snap photos with your phone of the accident scene, road and weather conditions, road signs, damage to your car and your injuries.
- Consult with an Uber accident lawyer to discuss your case.
Compensation After the Accident
Even though the compensation amounts with an Uber accident seem to be high, actually getting fair compensation for your injuries may not be so easy. Uber may claim the driver wasn’t working at the time of the accident or they may devalue your claim by saying that your injuries were pre-existing at the time of the accident. In this case, speak with an Uber accident attorney who specializes in ridesharing accidents. They can help you recover compensation for your losses like:
- Doctor and hospital bills
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Prescriptions and medications
- Medical devices and other medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Brandon J. Broderick Can Help You Recover Compensation
If you’ve been in a car accident with an Uber driver, you may be pressured to settle quickly, before understanding the full extent of the accident. You should always be careful of signing anything from the insurance company or potential liable party when you are in a car crash. Talk with an attorney who has the experience to help you get the compensation you need.
At Brandon J. Broderick, our knowledgeable Uber accident attorneys can take over all negotiations with insurers so you get full and fair compensation for your losses. One of our trusted team members will listen to your story, learn about your case, and can advise you next steps. Many of our clients feel a sense of relief once they make that first phone call. Contact us today.