Newark Uber Accident Lawyers

Uber is the largest rideshare company in the United States and, over the past decade, has increasingly gained popularity, especially in large cities like Newark. Uber Technologies, Inc. is a transportation network company that connects drivers with Newark residents who seek rides to and from the town. Although calling for an Uber may seem like a viable and safe option, the reality is one recent study revealed that cities experienced a two to three percent increase in the rate of fatal traffic accidents after the arrival of rideshare companies. 

At the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm, our Newark Uber accident lawyers represent individuals of all ages who are injured in rideshare accidents as well as grieving families who have lost loved ones in these fatal accidents.

If you or someone you may know is seriously injured in an accident involving an Uber vehicle, determining who is responsible for which losses can be challenging and stressful to deal with on your own. Several different insurance policies or theories of fault may come into play. If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, don’t wait. Speak with our experienced Denville Uber Accident Lawyers at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm today. 

Newark, NJ Car Accident Statistics

Newark is located in Essex County, where more than 311,000 residents reside, making it the most populated city in New Jersey. Newark is home to the Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the nation’s largest airports, serving 46 million passengers annually. It is also home to many venues and cultural attractions, including the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark Symphony Hall, the Prudential Center, The Newark Museum of Art, and the New Jersey Historical Society. Several major highways serve Newark, including I-78, I-95, and I-280. 

In 2021, Newark experienced 37 fatal car crashes. Statewide, a total of 667 New Jersey residents lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents in 2021. Although the reports don’t specify if these crashes were related to rideshare incidents, it is critical to understand that these types of crashes can occur with any type of driver. Surprisingly, 40.5% of the 37 fatal crashes involved a dark-lighted environment, 35.1% involved broad daylight, 16.2% involved dark-not lighted, and 16.2% involved dawn-related car crashes. 

Requirements for Uber Drivers 

Uber drivers must meet specific enrollment criteria, including being at least 21 years old with a minimum of three years of driving experience and insured vehicles in their name for the state of operation. Uber conducts background checks looking for records of drunk driving, accidents, or reckless driving-related criminal charges.

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are required to adhere to Sami’s Law, signed by the New Jersey Governor on June 20, 2019. This law bolsters ride-share passenger safety by mandating unique driver identification materials. This includes two markers displayed on the front and rear windows, two machine-readable barcodes for passenger confirmation, and two credential placards showcasing driver details, all of which should be illuminated during dark hours if possible.

While Uber maintains strict driver standards to reduce risks, it’s crucial to understand that accidents and injuries on the road can result from various sources, not just Uber drivers. Both Uber drivers and passengers face risks from other factors as well.

Examples of Uber Accidents in Newark, NJ

Uber accidents can affect rideshare passengers, other drivers and passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and anyone else on the road. Examples of where Uber accidents can occur include the following:

• An Uber driver strikes a pedestrian when dropping off a customer at Newark Liberty International Airport.
• An Uber driver collides with another driver or pedestrian when trying to locate a customer.
• An Uber driver doesn’t see a bicyclist on an adjacent bike lane because they glanced at their phone to check the directions.
• An Uber driver makes an illegal U-turn to pick up or drop off a passenger. 

These are just a few of the most common examples of Newark Uber accidents; there are many others. Regardless of the nature of the accident resulting in your injuries, the attorneys at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm can help you understand your rights and effectively pursue a claim against the at-fault party. 

Uber Accident Injuries in Newark

Uber accidents can result in victims experiencing a wide range of serious and potentially life-changing injuries. Some of the most common Uber accident injuries include the following:

• Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Amputations
• Broken bones 

In the event of an Uber accident, it’s crucial to take immediate action and seek medical help without delay. If you’ve sustained injuries, don’t wait – immediately get medical attention. If you haven’t visited the emergency room or arranged a doctor’s appointment, do so as urgently as possible. If you’re currently undergoing medical treatment for your injuries, it’s imperative that you adhere closely to your doctor’s instructions. Attend all follow-up appointments with utmost urgency. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re uncertain about the steps you need to take to care for yourself following the injury. Your prompt and proactive response is paramount to your recovery. This is why contacting the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm team as soon as possible is the best way to build a compelling case. 

What Riders Should Do After a Newark Uber Accident

After any car accident, it’s common to have many questions. However, Uber accidents are particularly complex. If you are involved in an Uber accident, take the following steps to the best of your ability. 

Report the Uber Accident

After an Uber accident, the first thing to do is report it to local law enforcement by calling 911 or the Newark Police Department. Reporting a rideshare accident is important for two reasons. First, the 911 dispatcher will send an emergency response team to the scene to determine if anyone needs potentially lifesaving medical treatment. Second, reporting the accident creates an official record, making it harder for the rideshare driver or the insurance companies to claim that your injuries were caused by something else. 

Collect Critical Information

Gather as much information as you can. Identify the other driver(s) and accident witnesses to ask for their names and contact information. Use a smartphone to take pictures of the accident scene, focusing on any vehicle damage, road signs and lane markings, and the relative location of the vehicles involved. Use a pen and paper to write down the other driver’s information and write down what you see at the scene. 

Communicate What Has Happened

Take proactive steps to handle the situation effectively. Stay at the scene to cooperate with the police and first responders as necessary. Make a prompt report of the incident to Uber. In addition, consider seeking guidance from experienced New Jersey Uber Accident Attorneys at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm. They can provide valuable insights into your rights and the potential direction of your case should you decide to pursue a claim. 

Visit a Local Doctor Even if You Feel Fine

When a crash occurs, your body releases adrenaline and other chemicals to enhance your focus, functionality, and survival. However, these chemicals can also dull your sensitivity to pain and injuries in those critical initial moments.

This unsettling phenomenon can lead to a disturbing revelation: you might not detect specific symptoms until hours or even days after the car crash. The deceptive aftermath might involve feeling seemingly unharmed in the immediate hours following the accident, only to confront unforeseen issues like dizziness, numbness, or inexplicable pain later on.

Acting swiftly becomes imperative. Seeking medical attention without delay ensures that your injuries are promptly diagnosed and that you receive the necessary assistance for your recovery from the adversity you’ve endured. Time is of the essence, as the aftermath of a crash can unveil hidden and potentially serious health concerns.

Document and Keep Track of What’s Happening

Collect all the paperwork related to the crash and your injuries and consolidate them in one central location. If you are missing any documents from emergency room visits or doctor’s appointments, contact the respective healthcare provider to request fresh copies.

Keep duplicates of all medical bills and receipts for any expenses you incurred due to your Uber accident. Similarly, if a collision involving an Uber driver caused your injuries, save all medical bills, towing, and repair receipts. Starting and maintaining a record of your medical records helps substantiate your legal claim. 

Talk to an Experienced Newark Uber Personal Injury Lawyer Now!

If you suffered a serious injury in a New Jersey Uber or Lyft accident, or sadly, lost or a loved one in an Uber or Lyft accident, the dedicated Rideshare Accident Injury Lawyers at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm are here to help. For more than 30 years, we have been helping clients who have been seriously injured in all types of accidents. We are a five-star rated law firm, recovering a total of more than $100 million on behalf of our clients. We will do our best to hold the negligent driver fully accountable for their actions and get you the justice you deserve.

We recognize the challenges you face as a result of a serious motor vehicle crash and are uniquely positioned to protect your rights and help you through the recovery process. To learn more and to schedule a FREE consultation, give us a call today at 973-920-7900. You can also connect with us through our online form. There is never a fee unless we win your case. We have two conveniently located offices in Denville and Morristown, New Jersey.