New Brunswick Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers

New Brunswick Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers

Rideshare vehicles like Uber and Lyft have become a common sight on New Brunswick streets. From students catching late-night rides from Rutgers to commuters using the apps for daily travel, the convenience is undeniable. However, when a rideshare vehicle is involved in a crash, the legal and insurance issues can be complicated. Passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers often find themselves dealing not only with the individual driver but also with a large corporate entity.

At Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P., our New Brunswick Uber and Lyft accident lawyers understand the unique challenges these cases present. Liability often depends on the driver’s status within the app, and insurance coverage can vary accordingly. We carefully examine every detail to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve.

What Makes Rideshare Accidents Different From Regular Car Accidents?

Rideshare accidents differ from standard car crashes due to the involvement of large corporations and complex insurance policies. Liability can hinge on whether the driver was:

• Logged into the app but waiting for a ride request.
• En route to pick up a passenger.
• Transporting a passenger.

Each scenario affects which insurance coverage is available. Rideshare drivers are typically considered independent contractors, which further influences liability and the ability to recover compensation.

What Are the Main Causes of Rideshare Crashes in New Brunswick, NJ?

Rideshare crashes occur for many reasons, including:

• Driver distraction or inexperience.
• Fatigue from long hours on the road.
• Speeding, aggressive driving, or failure to obey traffic laws.
• External factors such as poor weather, reckless drivers, or road hazards.
• Rideshare-specific pressures, like navigating unfamiliar areas or interacting with the app.

Understanding the cause of the crash is critical for determining liability and pursuing compensation.

Who Can Be Held Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident in New Brunswick?

Multiple parties may share liability in a rideshare crash:

• The rideshare driver may be held responsible if their negligence caused the accident.
• The rideshare company may be liable if the driver was logged into the app, particularly while transporting a passenger.
• Other motorists or third parties may also share fault depending on the circumstances.

Our lawyers conduct thorough investigations, examining police reports, vehicle damage, skid marks, and other evidence to determine liability.

What Insurance Coverage Applies to New Brunswick Uber and Lyft Accidents?

Insurance coverage depends on the driver’s activity at the time of the crash:

• Driver not logged into the app. Their personal auto insurance applies.
• Driver logged in, waiting for a ride request. Limited liability coverage from the rideshare company may be available.
• Driver transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up. Uber or Lyft provides higher liability coverage, which may include bodily injury, property damage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Understanding these distinctions is critical for pursuing maximum compensation.

How Can Passengers Protect Their Rights After a Rideshare Accident in New Brunswick?

Passengers should take the following steps:

1. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
2. Document the scene with photographs and notes.
3. Save trip records from the rideshare app.
4. Report the accident to both the police and the rideshare company.
5. Collect contact information from the driver, passengers, and witnesses.

Prompt action helps protect legal rights and strengthens potential claims.

What Should Other Drivers or Pedestrians Do After a Rideshare Crash?

Drivers or pedestrians hit by a rideshare vehicle should:

• Report the crash to law enforcement.
• Request information about the rideshare driver’s app status to determine insurance coverage.
• Take photographs of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
• Seek medical evaluation promptly.

These steps ensure accurate documentation, which is crucial for filing a claim.

What Role Does Evidence Play in Rideshare Accident Cases?

Evidence is central to rideshare accident claims. Key types include:

• Trip Logs and App Data: Confirm whether the driver was logged into the app and transporting a passenger
• Police Reports: Provide an official account of the accident
• Witness Statements: Support your version of events
• Photographs and Videos: Show the accident scene and injuries

Thorough documentation is especially important because multiple insurers may be involved in a single claim.

Can Uber and Lyft Deny Liability?

Yes. Uber and Lyft often argue that drivers are independent contractors, which can complicate liability claims. Additionally, these companies have experienced legal teams dedicated to minimizing payouts. Our New Brunswick Uber and Lyft accident lawyers are prepared to stand up to corporate defenses and fight for your rights.

How Are Medical Expenses Covered After a Rideshare Accident in New Brunswick?

Medical expenses may be covered by:

• The rideshare driver’s personal insurance.
• The rideshare company’s liability coverage.
• The injured party’s personal auto insurance or health insurance.

In many cases, injured parties must rely on health insurance, personal injury protection (PIP), or out-of-pocket payments until liability is resolved through a settlement or court judgment.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Rideshare Accident Claim?

Victims of Uber and Lyft crashes may recover compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: Past and future costs of treatment
• Lost Income: Wages lost due to injury or recovery time
• Pain and Suffering: Physical and emotional distress caused by the accident
• Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of a damaged vehicle

Strong evidence, such as trip records, witness statements, and app data, is critical to proving fault and maximizing recovery.

How Long Do I Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim in New Jersey?

Under New Jersey law, injured parties generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Failing to act within this timeframe may prevent recovery, so it is crucial to contact an experienced rideshare accident lawyer promptly.

Why Is Legal Representation Important in Uber and Lyft Accident Cases?

Rideshare accidents are more complex than standard car crashes due to:

• Multiple parties potentially liable.
• Overlapping insurance policies.
• Corporate defenses and experienced legal teams.

Our New Brunswick Uber and Lyft accident lawyers handle all aspects of your case, from evidence gathering to negotiations and litigation. We ensure your rights are protected while you focus on recovery.

Contact Our Experienced New Brunswick Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P.

If you were injured in a rideshare accident, our New Brunswick Uber and Lyft accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. are ready to help. Call 732-247-3600 or contact us online for a free consultation. We have offices in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, NJ, serving clients throughout Middlesex County, Monmouth County, Somerset County, and the surrounding areas.