Imagine you're heading home after a night out, and your rideshare driver gets into a collision, leaving you injured and confused about what to do next. Or perhaps you were driving through a busy intersection when a rideshare vehicle slammed into you, causing serious damage and pain. No matter the circumstances, if you were involved in a rideshare accident in New Jersey, you deserve comprehensive financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At Shebell & Shebell, LLC, we are dedicated to helping victims of rideshare accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve. Our team will thoroughly investigate your accident, gather crucial evidence, and build a strong case that the insurance companies can't ignore. With our aggressive negotiation tactics and commitment to our clients, you can trust that we will fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Types of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents can occur in various scenarios, including:
- Driver Collisions: Accidents involving the rideshare driver’s vehicle and another car.
- Passenger Injuries: Passengers injured while riding in a rideshare vehicle.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Incidents where a rideshare vehicle strikes a pedestrian.
- Cyclist Accidents: Collisions between rideshare vehicles and cyclists.
Who Is at Fault in a New Jersey Rideshare Accident?
Determining fault in a rideshare accident can be complex. Potential liable parties include the rideshare driver, if the driver was negligent or reckless; another motorist, if another driver’s actions caused the accident; the rideshare company, as in certain situations, the rideshare company might share liability; and pedestrians or cyclists, as in rare cases, a pedestrian or cyclist may be at fault. Identifying the responsible party is essential for a successful claim. Our attorneys have the expertise to navigate these complexities and advocate for your rights.
NJ-Specific Insurance Coverage Rules
In New Jersey, the law mandates specific insurance coverage for rideshare drivers, regulated by the Transportation Network Company Safety and Regulatory Act (N.J.S.A. 39:5H-1 through 39:5H-28). The coverage is tiered based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
- Offline or App Off: If the driver is not logged into the app, their personal insurance is in effect.
- App On, No Passenger: When the driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, the rideshare company's insurance provides limited coverage:
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death per person.
- $100,000 for bodily injury or death per accident.
- $25,000 for property damage.
- App On, Passenger in Car: Once a ride is accepted and a passenger is in the vehicle, the rideshare company's full insurance coverage kicks in:
- $1.5 million in liability coverage for bodily injury, death, and property damage.
- $1.5 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- $10,000 for personal injury protection (PIP) per person per accident (if the driver's personal policy does not include PIP).
This comprehensive insurance framework ensures that victims of rideshare accidents in New Jersey have a clear path to compensation, reflecting the seriousness of the potential injuries and damages that can occur.
How Can a Rideshare Accident Attorney Help Me?
A rideshare accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:
- Investigating the Accident: Gathering evidence and reconstructing the accident scene to determine liability.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Ensuring you receive a fair settlement from the insurance company.
- Representing You in Court: If necessary, fighting for your rights in a courtroom setting.
- Maximizing Compensation: Seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Rideshare accidents can have severe impacts on your life, often leading to significant non-economic damages such as pain, suffering, and a diminished quality of life. Recent studies reveal that rideshare accidents result in more than 3,000 serious injuries annually in the United States, highlighting the profound effect these incidents can have on victims. An experienced attorney can help ensure that you fully understand your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your situation.
Identifying the responsible party is essential for a successful claim. If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident, you need a dedicated and knowledgeable legal team on your side. Our New Jersey rideshare accident lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the process. For a free consultation, contact us today.