What Happens if I Am Injured in an Uber Accident in New Jersey?

If you are injured in an Uber accident in New Jersey, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. New Jersey is a no-fault state, meaning that personal injury protection (PIP) coverage typically applies first, regardless of who is at fault.

However, if the accident involves serious injuries, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault party, whether it’s the Uber driver or another motorist. Uber drivers carry commercial insurance policies that may provide additional coverage. Consulting with a Jersey City car accident lawyer can help you understand your options and pursue a fair settlement for your losses.

Uber Accidents Are Different for Passengers and Other Drivers

Uber accidents differ from typical car accidents because multiple parties and insurance companies may be involved. For example, if you are a passenger in an Uber during a crash, the at-fault driver might be the Uber driver, another motorist, or even a third party responsible for road conditions.

If you’re an Uber driver involved in a crash, your insurance policy will likely differ from standard personal auto insurance, as New Jersey law requires commercial insurance policies for rideshare drivers.

Rideshare Insurance Is Not Like Regular Insurance

Accident victims, whether passengers or other drivers, should understand that claims may involve multiple insurance providers. Here are a few important points to keep in mind:

• Insurance coverage: Uber drivers carry commercial insurance policies, which include personal injury protection and property damage coverage. This differs from personal auto insurance coverage.
• Insurance claims: Depending on who is at fault, claims may be filed with Uber’s insurance, the fault driver’s personal insurance, or your own personal insurance provider under New Jersey’s no-fault insurance laws.
• Third-party liability: Third-party liability coverage may sometimes apply if the accident involves road hazards, defective automobile parts, or other factors beyond the control of the Uber driver.

A car accident lawyer in Jersey can explain how a rideshare accident can be very different from a regular car crash. They can also help you develop a legal strategy to claim the compensation you deserve.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim for an Uber Accident?

If you’re injured in an Uber accident in New Jersey, it’s important to understand how long you have to file a lawsuit. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those from Uber accidents, is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to take legal action against the at-fault party or Uber driver.

However, the time limit can vary depending on certain factors. For example, if the accident involves a government vehicle or a public transportation company, different deadlines may apply. 

It’s crucial to keep these deadlines in mind when dealing with:

• Personal injury claims: You have two years from the date of the Uber accident to file a claim for injuries.
• Property damage claims: You may have up to six years to pursue compensation for damage to your vehicle or other property.

If you miss these deadlines, you could lose your right to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. Consulting with an accident attorney soon after the accident can help you stay within the legal time frame and ensure your claim is filed properly.

Injuries Commonly Associated With Rideshare Accidents in New Jersey

Rideshare accidents, including those involving Uber, can result in various types of injuries for passengers, drivers, and even pedestrians. Depending on the circumstances of the crash, these injuries can range from minor scrapes to severe, life-altering conditions.

Some of the more common injuries associated with rideshare accidents in New Jersey include:

• Whiplash and neck injuries: Sudden collisions can cause passengers and drivers to experience neck strain, leading to whiplash or other soft tissue injuries.
• Head injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can occur due to the impact of a crash, even when airbags deploy.
• Spinal cord injuries: Severe accidents may result in damage to the spine, potentially causing long-term effects such as paralysis or chronic pain.
• Broken bones: Fractures to the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis are common in more serious rideshare accidents.
• Internal injuries: These can be harder to detect at first, but internal bleeding and organ damage are serious conditions that often require immediate medical care.
• Cuts and bruises: Even minor collisions can result in lacerations, bruises, or scrapes from broken glass or airbag deployment.

It’s essential to seek medical care as soon as possible after a rideshare accident, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Many injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent but could worsen over time.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, a personal injury lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Whether the accident involved an Uber vehicle, a rideshare driver, or another party, having proper legal representation can ensure your rights are protected during the claims process.

Talk to a Rideshare Accident Lawyer at No Cost Today

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, such as those involving Uber or Lyft, you may be feeling overwhelmed by medical bills, lost wages, and the insurance claims process. It can be a difficult time, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

Speaking with our personal injury lawyers can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the steps needed to seek compensation. Personal injury lawyers at Morelli Law Firm offer free consultations, meaning you can discuss the details of your accident and injuries at no cost. Contact our New Jersey office today.