Steps to Take if Your Uber or Lyft Driver Causes an Accident in New Jersey

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Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation, making travel more convenient and accessible. However, rideshare accidents introduce unique legal challenges that differ from standard car accidents. If you have been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in New Jersey—whether as a passenger, driver, or another motorist—you may be wondering who is responsible for the damages, how to file an insurance claim, and what legal options are available to you.

New Jersey’s rideshare accident laws involve multiple insurance policies, liability considerations, and legal processes. Understanding your rights and the steps to take can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about rideshare accident claims in New Jersey.

 

Immediate Steps After an Uber or Lyft Accident in NJ

The moments following an Uber or Lyft accident are critical. Ensuring safety, gathering evidence, and understanding the proper steps to take can significantly impact your ability to secure compensation.

1. Ensure Safety and Call 911
   The first and most important step is to ensure everyone’s safety. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries appear minor, it is crucial to seek medical attention, as some symptoms—such as whiplash or internal bleeding—may not be immediately apparent. A medical examination will also serve as official documentation for any insurance claims or legal proceedings.
2. Gather Information and Evidence
   After ensuring safety, gather all relevant information about the accident. This includes the rideshare driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, and the name of the rideshare company (Uber or Lyft). If other vehicles were involved, obtain the details of their drivers and passengers as well. Additionally, note the make, model, and license plate number of all vehicles.

Taking photographs at the accident scene is essential. Capture clear images of all vehicle damages, any visible injuries, the road conditions, traffic signals, and any other relevant details. Screenshots of the rideshare app confirming your ride, along with the trip details, can serve as additional proof when filing a claim.

3. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft
   Reporting the accident to Uber or Lyft is necessary. Both companies have in-app reporting options where passengers and drivers can file accident reports. This step ensures that the rideshare company acknowledges the incident and that insurance coverage is activated.

4. Consult a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
   Lastly, consulting a rideshare accident lawyer can be beneficial, especially if you suffered injuries. An attorney can help you navigate complex insurance claims, negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, take legal action to ensure you receive fair compensation.

 

Who Is Liable in an Uber or Lyft Accident?

Determining liability in an Uber or Lyft accident can be complicated because rideshare drivers operate as independent contractors. Liability depends on who caused the accident and whether the Uber or Lyft driver was actively working at the time.

When the Uber or Lyft Driver Is at Fault
If the Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident, their liability depends on their status during the crash. If the driver was not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance is responsible for covering damages. If the driver was logged into the app but had not yet accepted a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide limited insurance coverage. Once the driver has accepted a ride and is actively transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability coverage.

When Another Driver Is at Fault
In cases where another driver was at fault for the accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance policy should cover damages. However, if the other driver was uninsured or underinsured, Uber and Lyft’s uninsured motorist coverage may apply.

When Uber or Lyft May Be Held Responsible
Uber and Lyft generally try to avoid direct liability for accidents, but there are situations where the company may be held responsible. If Uber or Lyft failed to properly screen a driver who had a history of reckless driving, for example, they could be found negligent. Additionally, if the rideshare app malfunctioned in a way that contributed to the accident, the company might bear some responsibility.

 

Understanding Uber and Lyft Insurance Coverage in NJ

New Jersey has strict laws requiring rideshare companies to provide insurance coverage, but the amount of coverage varies based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

Insurance Coverage Based on Driver’s Status
When a driver is not using the rideshare app, only their personal insurance applies. If the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride request, Uber and Lyft provide a limited insurance policy that includes up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.

Once a driver accepts a ride request or has a passenger in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy applies. This coverage includes liability for bodily injury, property damage, and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Does Uber Cover Passenger Injuries in NJ?
For passengers injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, the company’s insurance policy should cover medical expenses. However, securing compensation is not always straightforward. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims, making it essential for victims to have proper legal representation.

 

Filing a Claim After an Uber or Lyft Accident in NJ

Filing a claim after a rideshare accident involves several steps, depending on the circumstances of the crash and the insurance policies involved.

Filing a Claim with Uber or Lyft’s Insurance
If the Uber or Lyft driver was at fault, you can file a claim with their insurance provider. If they were logged into the app or had a passenger on board, Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy should cover damages. The process typically involves submitting a claim, providing documentation such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements, and negotiating with the insurance company.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim Against the Driver
If the Uber or Lyft driver was negligent and caused the accident, you may file a claim against their personal auto insurance.

Understanding New Jersey’s No-Fault Insurance Law
New Jersey’s no-fault insurance laws require drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which pays for medical expenses regardless of who was at fault. If you are covered under a PIP policy, it will cover your initial medical expenses. However, if your injuries are severe or your expenses exceed PIP limits, you may have the right to sue for additional damages.

 

Legal Options for Rideshare Passengers & Drivers

Navigating insurance claims after an Uber or Lyft accident can be challenging. If your claim is denied or you face difficulties securing compensation, legal assistance may be necessary.

When to Hire an Uber or Lyft Accident Lawyer
Hiring a rideshare accident lawyer is beneficial if you suffered serious injuries, incurred significant medical expenses, or lost wages due to the accident. A lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence to strengthen your case, and represent you in court if necessary.

How to Sue an Uber or Lyft Driver
If the Uber or Lyft driver was at fault, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. If Uber or Lyft’s insurance provider denies your claim, legal action may be required to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim
In New Jersey, personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident. If you are seeking compensation for property damage, you have up to six years to file a claim. Failing to meet these deadlines can result in losing the right to recover damages.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Uber and Lyft Accidents in New Jersey

What are my rights if my Uber driver gets into an accident?
As a rideshare passenger, you have the right to medical care, insurance coverage, and legal representation if necessary. Uber and Lyft both provide up to $1 million in liability insurance for accidents that occur while a ride is in progress. If you are injured, you have the right to file a claim against the driver’s personal insurance or Uber/Lyft’s policy, depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. If your injuries are severe or your claim is denied, you may also have the right to sue for compensation.

If I get hurt in a Lyft accident in New Jersey, who covers my medical bills?
New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will typically pay for your medical bills regardless of who was at fault. However, if your expenses exceed your PIP policy limit, you may be able to file a claim against Lyft’s insurance policy or the at-fault driver’s insurance. If your injuries are serious, you may also have the option to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.

Can I sue my Uber driver after a crash?
Yes, you can sue your Uber driver if they were at fault for the accident and caused you injuries. In most cases, rideshare accident claims are handled through insurance, but if your claim is denied or your damages exceed the insurance policy limits, you may pursue legal action. If the Uber driver was reckless, intoxicated, or otherwise negligent, a personal injury lawsuit may be an option to recover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How do I report a rideshare accident in New Jersey?
You should first call 911 and report the accident to the police. A police report will serve as an important document when filing an insurance claim. After seeking medical attention and gathering evidence at the scene, you must also report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app. In the Uber app, you can navigate to “Trip Issues & Refunds” to report the incident, while Lyft’s app has a “Safety Center” for accident reporting. If you plan to file a claim, you should also notify your insurance company and consult with a lawyer to understand your legal options.

What happens if an Uber driver is at fault for an accident in New Jersey?
If an Uber driver is responsible for an accident, liability depends on whether they were actively using the Uber app at the time. If the driver was not logged in, their personal insurance is responsible. If they were logged in but had not accepted a ride, Uber provides limited liability coverage of up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury. If they had accepted a ride or had a passenger in the vehicle, Uber’s $1 million insurance policy applies. If the driver’s insurance and Uber’s policy both deny coverage, you may need to take legal action to recover damages.

Contact The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., Today

Being involved in an Uber or Lyft accident can be overwhelming, but understanding your rights and the steps to take can make a significant difference in your ability to recover compensation. Whether you are a passenger, driver, or another motorist, knowing how rideshare insurance works, who may be held liable, and when to seek legal help can help protect your financial and physical well-being.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident in New Jersey, consulting an experienced Uber or Lyft accident lawyer can provide the legal guidance needed to secure maximum compensation. Don’t let insurance companies deny you the compensation you deserve—contact The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., today for a free consultation.