Taking an Uber or Lyft can be a convenient way to get around your city and a safe way to get home after a long night out. However, when a rideshare driver, another motorist, or another party neglects their responsibility to care for your safety, the consequences can be life-changing. If you suffered injuries in a rideshare accident due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to file a personal injury claim with the help of the experienced lawyers at Mandelbaum Barrett PC.
With decades of experience handling complex personal injury claims in New Jersey, you can trust our team to fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve. We provide high-quality personalized services, managing every aspect of your claim so you can focus on recovery. This client-focused approach and our commitment to clear communication help you better understand your legal options after a rideshare accident and make the best decisions for your future.
When Can You File a Personal Injury Claim After a Rideshare Accident?
The aftermath of a rideshare accident can be overwhelming, and you may not know if you can file a claim to hold the liable party accountable and recover damages. At Mandelbaum Barrett PC, we take the time to listen to your story and determine if you have a solid case, which must prove the following elements:
- Duty of care: The at-fault party, whether it was the rideshare driver, rideshare company, or another motorist, owed you a duty to care for your safety and prevent harm.
- Breach of duty: They breached this duty by acting negligently, such as driving while distracted, ignoring traffic laws or an improper hiring process.
- Direct causation: This negligence directly caused the accident and your injuries.
- Damages: Your injuries resulted in medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If these elements are true for your case, we can help you gather evidence, including medical records, the police report, witness testimony, and surveillance footage, through a detailed investigation. We take the legal burdens of a rideshare accident off your shoulders so you can focus on recovery while understanding your rights.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage
One of the biggest challenges of rideshare accident claims is determining whose coverage applies to your case because the coverage available depends on the driver’s working phase. These working phases and the applicable coverage include the following:
Driver Not Logged Into Rideshare App
If the drivers were not logged into the rideshare app when they caused the accident, their personal liability coverage would apply. We can help you file a claim against the driver’s personal insurance to recover full compensation for your losses.
Driver Logged Into App With No Passenger
If the rideshare driver caused the accident while logged into the rideshare app but not transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage that may apply. This coverage includes up to $50,000 per person injured, $100,000 for total bodily injuries per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. If this policy does not cover the full costs of your damages, we can help you fight for the maximum compensation you deserve with the rideshare company.
Driver En Route to Pick Up a Passenger
If the rideshare driver accepted a ride and was on their way to pick up the passenger when they caused the accident, Uber and Lyft’s coverage increases to $1,500,000 in third-party liability coverage. However, insurance companies use tactics to minimize payouts and downplay the severity of your injuries. We understand these strategies and use our innovative solutions to fiercely advocate for the compensation you deserve.
Driver Transporting a Passenger
If you were a passenger in a rideshare or were hit by a rideshare driver while they were transporting a passenger and suffered injuries, Uber or Lyft’s full insurance coverage may apply. This includes the $1,500,000 third-party liability coverage. When calculating your claim’s value, we consider every detail, including long-term medical needs and lost wages, to avoid settling for a lowball offer and give you the best chance of a successful outcome.
Contact the Dedicated Rideshare Accident Lawyers at Mandelbaum Barrett PC to Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Navigating a rideshare accident claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with multiple insurance companies and complex liability issues. At Mandelbaum Barrett PC, our Spanish-speaking lawyers have decades of experience handling personal injury claims in New Jersey. With decades of experience handling personal injury claims, our experienced attorneys include Certified Civil Trial Attorney Andrew Bronsnick and Co-Chair Joseph J. Peters.
We understand the challenges of rideshare accident cases and are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process. From investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies, we fight tirelessly to protect your rights. Contact us today at (973) 585-5100 or complete our contact form to discuss your case with a trusted legal advocate.