Morris County Rideshare Accident Attorney

New Jersey lawyer represents clients injured in Uber and Lyft collisions

Uber, Lyft and other rideshare services take New Jersey passengers on millions of trips each year. While the popularity of these transportation networks is undeniable, the presence of additional cars on the road increases the incidence of collisions. Rideshare service drivers do not complete any special training and their cars are not inspected to the same extent as taxis or other commercial vehicles that carry passengers. If you have been hurt in a crash involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, Kevin T. Kutyla, Esq. is a Morris County rideshare accident attorney who can help. I advocate for motor vehicle crash victims throughout North Jersey and have a track record of obtaining substantial payments for clients in and out of court. 

Reasons why rideshare accidents differ from other auto accidents

Contractors for transportation network companies (TNCs) such as Uber and Lyft use their own personal vehicles. However, rideshare accident claims often involve several elements not found in standard vehicle collision cases. Passengers in a rideshare car have no connection to the driver and are unaware of their accident record or of anything else about them beyond their star rating on the rideshare app. If the vehicle takes unfamiliar roads or makes sudden stops, the potential for a collision is increased. If you are injured in a rideshare vehicle accident, it’s essential to hire an attorney who is familiar with the New Jersey law that sets forth insurance coverage requirements for TNC drivers while they are carrying a passenger or are on their way to a pickup. 

Injuries that frequently occur in Morris County rideshare accidents 

Whether you’re a passenger in a rideshare car or in a vehicle that has been struck by one, you could suffer one or more injuries. Many vehicle collisions result in spinal damage, which could lead to chronic back pain, a slipped disk or even paralysis. Harm to the head and neck is also common in car accidents because of the rapid back-and-forth motion that occurs when a car stops suddenly in a crash. These injuries, as well as such conditions as broken bones and ligament damage, might be more frequent among rideshare passengers who are not wearing seatbelts. My firm collects the relevant medical evidence to support victims’ claims and also represents plaintiffs in wrongful death actions stemming from Uber and Lyft accidents. 

Determining liability after an Uber or Lyft crash

Under New Jersey’s no-fault auto insurance system, most recoveries of compensation for injuries come from an individual’s own insurance company, regardless of who was at fault for the collision. However, in cases involving serious injuries, you can seek compensation directly from an at-fault driver and their insurer. Under New Jersey law, a TNC driver must have $1.5 million in liability insurance coverage for accidents that occur while they are on their way to pick up someone who has ordered a ride or while they are bringing a passenger to their destination. Through witness interviews, physical evidence and expert reports, I will prepare a comprehensive argument to demonstrate blame for a collision resulting in serious injury. 

Common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents throughout Morris County

On crowded highways, including Route 10 and I-287, as well as in busy downtown areas such as the Morristown Green, the Morris County region presents numerous risks when drivers aren’t operating their vehicles in a safe manner. Some of these dangers are exacerbated when the person behind the wheel is working for Uber or Lyft. Causes of rideshare accidents can include the following:

• Speeding to complete the trip quickly and pick up another fare
• Focusing on the passenger, GPS or rideshare company app, which can lead to distracted driving accidents
• Fatigue caused by long hours or the fact that the driver works multiple jobs
• Lack of driver familiarity with the area where they are picking up or taking a passenger

Whatever factors contributed to the incident in which you were injured, I will thoroughly investigate the facts to pinpoint who is liable for the harm you suffered. 

Potential damages for victims of rideshare accidents in New Jersey

As a seasoned Morris County car accident attorney, I have secured substantial compensation through verdicts and settlements for victims of New Jersey motor vehicle collisions. Specific damages that you might collect in a rideshare accident claim include reimbursement for medical costs, lost income and rehabilitation expenses. My firm will also fight for non-economic damages, such as compensation for your pain and suffering and the loss of enjoyment in your life resulting from your injuries. 

Contact a New Jersey rideshare accident lawyer to discuss your case

Kevin T. Kutyla, Esq. in Succasunna represents clients in Morris and Sussex counties who have been injured in accidents involving rideshare vehicles. For a consultation, please call 973-940-8970 or contact me online.