Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyer in NY & NJ

Being a rideshare driver for Uber or Lyft can be a rewarding way to earn an income, but it also comes with unique risks. Accidents can happen anytime, leaving you with injuries, vehicle damage, or disputes with insurance companies. At John Onal Injury Law, we specialize in helping rideshare drivers in New York (NY) and New Jersey (NJ) navigate the legal complexities after a car accident.

Why Rideshare Accidents Are Different

Accidents involving rideshare vehicles like Uber and Lyft differ significantly from regular car accidents due to the unique insurance policies and liability rules at play.

1. Multiple Insurance Policies:

• Your personal insurance may not cover damages while you are actively working as a rideshare driver.
• Uber and Lyft provide varying levels of coverage based on your driving status (offline, app on, or ride in progress).

1. Complicated Liability Issues:

• Determining who is at fault can involve multiple parties, including other drivers, passengers, or even the rideshare company.

1. State-Specific Laws:

• Both NY and NJ have specific regulations that impact rideshare drivers, making it crucial to work with a lawyer experienced in these jurisdictions.

Uber and Lyft Accident Coverage in NY and NJ

Understanding the insurance coverage provided by rideshare companies is key to knowing your rights.

New Jersey:

Under the Transportation Network Company Safety and Regulatory Act, Uber and Lyft provide:

• When Offline: Only personal insurance applies.
• App On, No Passenger: $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Passenger Onboard or En Route: $1.5 million in liability coverage, plus $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP).

New York:

According to Article 44-B of the Vehicle and Traffic Law, Uber and Lyft must provide:

• When Offline: Your personal insurance covers any accident.
• App On, No Passenger: $75,000 per person for bodily injury and $150,000 per accident.
• Passenger Onboard or En Route: $1.25 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured motorist protection.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

If you’ve been in an accident while driving for Uber or Lyft, follow these steps to protect your rights:

1. Ensure Safety First: Move to a safe location and check for injuries. Call emergency services immediately.
2. Contact the Police: File an official accident report. This is essential for insurance claims and legal action.
3. Document Everything: Take photos of the scene, damages, and injuries. Gather contact information from all parties involved, including passengers and witnesses.
4. Report to Uber/Lyft: Notify the rideshare company through the app. Be cautious about providing too much detail before consulting with a lawyer.
5. Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, a professional evaluation is critical for your health and for documenting your case.
6. Consult a Rideshare Accident Lawyer: Call John Onal Injury Law for a free consultation. Our team will guide you through the next steps.

How John Onal Injury Law Can Help

As a rideshare driver, you may face pushback from insurance companies, disputes over liability, or difficulty navigating the claims process. Our experienced legal team offers:

Comprehensive Case Evaluation

We’ll assess your accident details, including liability, damages, and insurance coverage, to develop a strategy tailored to your case.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

We handle all communication and negotiations with insurers to ensure you receive fair compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

Trial-Ready Representation

If a settlement isn’t possible, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

• Distracted Driving: Navigating the app or responding to passenger requests can divert attention from the road.
• Fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel increase the risk of accidents.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Rushing to complete rides or meet quotas can lead to dangerous situations.
• Weather Conditions: Snow, rain, and ice are common hazards in NY and NJ.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I sue Uber or Lyft for damages after an accident?
A: It depends. Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, which limits their liability. However, you may have a case if the company failed to provide adequate insurance coverage or acted negligently.

Q: What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
A: Both Uber and Lyft provide uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage when you’re actively working, ensuring you’re protected even if the at-fault driver lacks coverage.

Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In NJ and NY, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. Acting quickly ensures your rights are protected.

Why Choose John Onal Injury Law for Rideshare Accidents?

1. Specialized Experience: We’ve helped countless rideshare drivers in NY and NJ recover compensation after accidents.
2. Client-Centered Approach: We understand the challenges you face and work tirelessly to protect your interests.
3. Proven Results: Our team has secured substantial settlements for rideshare accident cases.

Contact Us Today

If you’re an Uber or Lyft driver in NY or NJ who has been injured in an accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. At John Onal Injury Law, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and help you navigate the legal process.

Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation. Let us fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.