Accidents And Rideshare Companies: What You Need To Know

Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber are now a major part of how people hail rides in cities all over the world. These rideshare companies and apps have completely revolutionized how people get around in the 21st century.  Just because the technological advancement is evident with these transportation options, the truth is that cars get into accidents and rideshare vehicles are no exception to that. So if you get into an accident as a rideshare passenger, driver, or are in another vehicle, who is liable for the damages? Here is a short guide to rideshare insurance and liability issues.

The Rideshare Factor

When it comes to the drivers who use these applications to make extra money, they are considered independent contractors and not full-fledged employees. This affects liability issues. Both Uber and Lyft offer comprehensive liability insurance for their drivers, with the objective of helping passengers who were injured in these types of motor vehicle accidents. But these policies, however, only kick in when their app is activated and the driver is either driving a passenger to a destination or is on their way to pick one up. If this is not the case, then the driver’s personal liability insurance policy must cover the damages. It is important to note that both Uber and Lyft require their drivers to have such policies before they can use their app.

After The Rideshare Accident: The First Steps

If you are involved in an accident where a rideshare vehicle is a factor, the first step is to follow procedures that you would after any type of car accident. Be sure that anyone who needs immediate medical attention gets it, take down information from all drivers and passengers involved, as well as the contact information for their insurance companies. Let your insurance company know that you were involved in an accident and get them all the details they need on their end.

Next Step: Contact A Personal Injury Attorney

While car accidents are everyday occurrences, if one of the vehicles involved is attached to a rideshare service then things can get confusing and complicated quickly. Get in contact with a personal injury attorney who is familiar with the process. They will sort through all the facts of the incident and prioritize who to contact first to discuss liability issues. This is especially necessary if there is more than two cars involved, as a third party introduces more complications and yet another insurance company to deal with. Your lawyer will then get in contact with the various parties and their insurance companies, as well as any witnesses to the accident.

Dealing With The Insurance Companies

A personal injury lawyer’s knowledge of car accidents is extremely important when you are dealing with the other party’s insurance company, whether it is the driver’s personal insurance or the rideshare company’s. Making admissions to an adjuster can be damaging and binding to your case so it is always best to let the attorney do the talking. They will know how to best represent your claim to give it the best chance of success, and advocate for you to get the full and fair amount of compensation for your damages. They will know when the insurance company is offering you a lower amount than you deserve, and can take your case to a jury if absolutely necessary.

Contact A Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Rideshare Accident Case Today!

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries in a motor vehicle accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Lombardi and Lombardi, P.A. represent clients injured as a result of Uber/Lyft accidents throughout the state, including Toms River, Edison, Brick and Freehold. Call 732-564-7165 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have two offices located in Edison at 1862 Oak Tree Road, Edison, NJ 08820 and 10 Parsonage Rd., Edison, NJ 08837. Our other offices are located in Brick at 119 Chambers Bridge Rd., Brick, NJ 08723, in Freehold at 402 West Main Street, Freehold, NJ 07728, and in Point Pleasant at 62 Broadway, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.