We trust rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to get us to our destination safely and to take care of any incidents that happen along the way. However, the number of parties involved in a potential rideshare car accident can complicate the coverage and leave you wondering who will pay for any medical bills you might incur. Whether you were a passenger, driver, or pedestrian in the accident, let us help you understand your rights and next steps.
What Are the Steps After a Rideshare Accident?
Seek immediate medical attention after any rideshare-related accident: Your health and well-being should always take priority. Rideshare companies, such as Uber and Lyft, provide liability insurance coverage for their drivers under specific conditions, and if your accident qualifies, that insurance can help cover your medical bills.
Does the Rideshare Company’s Insurance Cover Medical Bills?
If the rideshare driver involved in your accident was actively transporting a passenger or en route to pick someone up—whether that passenger was you or someone else—Uber and Lyft often provide up to $1 million in liability insurance to cover medical expenses for injuries sustained in the collision.
If the driver was not logged into the rideshare app at the time, however, the company’s insurance might not apply. Instead, because New Jersey follows a “no-fault” legal theory, you will likely need to file a claim with your insurance policy to cover your injuries.
Can Your Own Insurance Cover Medical Bills?
New Jersey law requires every vehicle owner in New Jersey to purchase an insurance policy and choose either “basic” or “standard” insurance. Basic insurance includes policies like Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance to cover medical care after car accidents, which would likely kick in as a first line of payment during scenarios like rideshare accidents.
However, New Jersey residents who select standard insurance can also choose between a “limited” and “unlimited” right to sue in case of a car and rideshare accident. If you opted for a “limited” right, you can only bring a lawsuit if you suffered a significant injury, like broken bones or permanent scarring. If you selected the “unlimited” option, however, you can bring a personal injury lawsuit regardless of the severity of your injury. These lawsuits could help you cover the cost of your rideshare accident.
How Can You Hold the At-Fault Party Accountable?
If you opt to bring a personal injury lawsuit, you need to demonstrate that another party caused your injuries; unfortunately, liability may rest with the rideshare driver, another motorist, or even the rideshare company, depending on your accident circumstances.
To protect your right to compensation, gather as much evidence as possible after your accident, such as photos of the scene, medical records after any reported injuries, and available traffic footage. The more evidence you obtain, the better your chances of a successful lawsuit to cover the costs of your accident.
Edison Car Accident Lawyers at Lombardi & Lombardi, P.A. Will Help You Today
If you suffered an injury in a rideshare accident, you need a seasoned and compassionate legal team by your side to guide you through the post-accident process, advocate for your interests, and protect your rights. The Edison car accident lawyers at Lombardi & Lombardi, P.A. will gather evidence and build your strongest case. Call us at 732-906-1500 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. With our office locations in Brick, Freehold, and Edison, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout the state, including Point Pleasant.
