Rockaway Borough Uber Accident Attorneys

Rockaway Borough, New Jersey, has a population of around 6,276 people, many of whom use ridesharing services like Uber for their transportation needs. Residents commute to work, school, shopping areas, and other destinations, while visitors may also use ridesharing as an option to get around. Rockaway Borough residents spend an average of around 26 minutes commuting to work each day.

Uber Technologies, Inc., commonly known as Uber, is appealing due to its ease of use and convenience. The app connects riders with drivers who use their personal vehicles. The company has around 1 million drivers in the United States alone.

If you suffer a serious injury in an accident involving an Uber vehicle, determining liability can be complex. Each Uber ride consists of multiple parties: the passenger, the driver, and Uber itself. Various insurance policies may apply, and getting the compensation you deserve can quickly pose obstacles.

If you have been injured in an Uber accident, contact the experienced Rockaway Borough Uber accident lawyers at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm today. We are here to help you navigate the legal process of obtaining compensation for your injuries.

What Causes Uber Accidents in Rockaway Borough?

Rockaway Borough sits between Interstate 80 and U.S. Route 46. It is located in the northern part of Morris County, which had 10,432 crashes in 2021.

Uber accidents in Rockaway Borough can occur due to a variety of reasons. Driver negligence is one of the leading causes. From 2017 to 2021, distracted driving, impaired driving, or speeding was a factor in over 55 percent of all New Jersey collisions.

Distracted driving is a significant cause of crashes as Uber drivers often use GPS, manage incoming ride requests through the app, or interact with passengers, all of which can divert their attention from the road. Fatigue is another factor in ridesharing collisions. Many Uber drivers work long hours or drive as a second job, leading to slower reaction times and impaired judgment behind the wheel.

Speeding is another common cause of Uber accidents. Rideshare drivers may rush to complete more trips to maximize earnings. Traveling at a high speed diminishes a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes on the road. Inexperience among drivers who are new to ridesharing or unfamiliar with the local area can also contribute to Uber accidents due to challenges with navigation and understanding traffic laws.

Traffic violations such as running red lights or failing to yield are common among Uber drivers in a hurry, leading to collisions. Vehicle maintenance issues also play a role. Since drivers use their personal cars, neglected upkeep can result in mechanical failures that cause accidents. 

Determining liability is one of the key steps to recovering compensation in an Uber accident. The experienced Rockaway Borough Uber accident lawyers at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm can help you identify who was responsible for your injuries and hold them accountable.

Uber Driver Requirements

Uber drivers in Rockaway Borough must adhere to specific requirements when signing up to provide ridesharing services. Uber drivers must be 21 or older and have at least three years of driving experience. Their vehicle must be insured in their name and registered in New Jersey. Uber conducts background checks on potential drivers, scrutinizing their history for drunk driving, accidents, or criminal charges related to reckless driving or vehicle misuse.

In addition to driver requirements, rideshare companies must comply with Sami’s Law. The governor of New Jersey enacted the law in 2019 to enhance passenger safety by ensuring they can correctly identify rideshare vehicles. Rideshare companies are required to:

• Issue two identifying markers for each driver, to be displayed on the front windshield and rear window.
• Provide every driver with two copies of a two-dimensional barcode or other machine-readable code for passengers to scan and confirm the vehicle’s identity.
• Produce and issue two credential placards for the driver and passenger side rear windows, including the driver’s name, photo, and license plate number. If possible, these signs should be illuminated and visible during nighttime.

The above standards aim to minimize risks associated with rideshare services. However, Uber drivers and passengers can still encounter dangers from various sources on the road. They face the risk of motor vehicle accidents that can cause serious injuries.

Common Types of Uber Accident Injuries in Rockaway Borough

Uber accidents can cause a range of injuries. In 2021, there were 2,087 injury collisions reported in Morris County. If you have been injured in a crash, be sure to get medical attention immediately. While some injuries may be visible right away, internal injuries may not be identified without a doctor’s evaluation and diagnosis. Here are some of the common injuries that can result from an Uber accident in Rockaway Borough:

• Soft tissue injuries: These include sprains, strains, and whiplash. The victim may experience a lot of pain, stiffness, and limited mobility for weeks or even months after a crash.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): A TBI is caused by a blow or jolt to the head and can lead to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Even a mild TBI can have lasting effects, while severe TBI can cause permanent disabilities.
• Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries: These injuries can range from chronic pain and limited mobility to paralysis. They can significantly impact your daily life and ability to participate in activities you enjoy.
• Broken bones: The force of a crash can break bones, causing anything from a hairline fracture to a complete shattering. Many broken bones require surgery with hardware like screws or rods to hold the bones in place while they heal. Some hardware may be permanent, and removal might require additional surgery.
• Amputations: In some severe accidents, amputation may be necessary immediately or later to preserve the health of the rest of the body. Amputations permanently alter your mobility and daily function. While many people adapt with great strength, the physical limitations remain.
• Internal injuries: These injuries can be difficult to diagnose at first and may include damage to internal organs, bleeding, and even burns.

What to Do After an Uber Accident in Rockaway Borough

Being involved in an Uber accident can be a frightening and confusing experience. If you are injured in a rideshare collision in Rockaway Borough, here is a guide on what to do to protect yourself and ensure a smooth recovery:

• Get help immediately: Your safety is the priority. Call 911 right away and activate your hazard lights or use flares to warn approaching traffic. Avoid moving anyone who is severely injured, as their condition could worsen.
• Gather information: If possible, exchange contact details with the Uber driver and any witnesses. Document the accident scene using your phone camera or by taking notes. Take pictures of the damage to vehicles, skid marks, and the overall accident location.
• Report the Uber accident: Stay at the scene until the police and first responders arrive. Provide a complete account of the accident. Report the accident to Uber through their app or website as soon as possible.
• Seek medical attention: Not all collisions result in major injuries. Be sure to see a doctor right away, even if you feel okay initially. Adrenaline can often mask serious injuries. Get a medical evaluation to identify and treat any potential issues promptly.
• Contact an attorney: Consult with a lawyer experienced in Uber accidents in Rockaway Borough. An attorney can explain your legal rights, navigate the claims process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
• Maintain Records: Keep all paperwork related to the Uber accident, including police reports, medical bills, repair receipts, and documentation of lost wages due to missed work. Maintain a log that details conversations with medical providers, repair shops, and anyone else involved in the accident aftermath. Detailed records will be helpful for your attorney and strengthen your claim for compensation.

How a Rockaway Borough Uber Accident Attorney Can Help

Uber, as a for-profit business, has a vested interest in minimizing the compensation paid out after an accident. Their legal team may attempt to resolve your Uber accident case quickly with a settlement that fails to cover the full extent of your losses.

You are not obligated to accept their initial settlement offer. Having a reputable Rockaway Borough Uber accident attorney on your side increases the likelihood that your claim will be taken seriously. An experienced lawyer will also ensure that all crash-related expenses are considered, including future rehabilitation costs and potential surgical procedures you might need.

A Rockaway Borough Uber accident attorney will thoroughly investigate the details of your case to determine fault. Identifying the responsible party is not always straightforward, as multiple negligent drivers can sometimes play a role in a single crash. For instance, a rear-end collision might involve several vehicles.

The Todd J. Leonard Law Firm will gather the necessary evidence to support your claim and establish the negligence that caused your Uber accident. Your Rockaway Borough Uber accident attorney will negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. If the parties involved refuse to offer a reasonable settlement, we are prepared to take your Uber accident claim to trial. Your attorney will represent you in court, working diligently to secure a favorable resolution for your case.

Contact Our Knowledgeable Rockaway Borough Uber Accident Attorneys Today!

If you have suffered a serious injury in an Uber or Lyft accident, the dedicated Rockaway Borough Uber accident lawyers at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm are here to assist you. For over 30 years, we have been supporting clients who have been injured in various types of accidents. Our five-star-rated law firm has recovered over $100 million for our clients. We strive to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions and secure the compensation you deserve.

We understand the difficulties that arise after a debilitating Uber accident and are uniquely equipped to protect your rights. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation, call us today at 973-920-7900 or connect with us through our online form. There is no fee unless we win your case. The Todd J. Leonard Law Firm serves clients from two conveniently located offices in Morristown and Denville, New Jersey.