Dover Uber Accident Attorneys

Dover, located in Morris County, New Jersey, is a bustling town with many residents and visitors relying on ridesharing services like Uber for transportation. Whether it is commuting to work, visiting local attractions, or simply getting around town, Uber provides a convenient option. However, with the increasing use of ridesharing services, the risk of accidents involving Uber vehicles also rises.

Determining responsibility for an Uber accident can be complex. Multiple parties may be liable, including the Uber driver, the ridesharing company, and other drivers involved. If you have been injured in an Uber accident, don’t wait. Talk to the experienced Dover Uber accident attorneys at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm today.

Uber Usage by the Numbers

Uber began offering ridesharing services in New Jersey in 2013, quickly gaining popularity for its ease of use and availability. Cities with high rideshare usage see approximately 3 percent higher traffic rates than other cities, leading to more opportunities for collisions. Uber accidents can occur at any point, from when a driver is awaiting a passenger to when a passenger gets dropped off at their destination.

As of 2019, Dover had an estimated population of 17,725. Residents spent an average of 24.6 minutes traveling to work, compared to an average travel time of 31.5 minutes countywide. For every mile of personal driving eliminated by rideshare use, 2.6 miles of driving are added by rideshare drivers, often because Uber drivers travel between drop-off and pick-up locations.

Uber Driver Requirements

Uber drivers must meet certain minimum standards before they can begin offering rides, including:

• Being at least 21 years old.
• Having a minimum of three years of driving experience.
• Holding vehicle insurance in the state where they will be driving.
• Undergoing background checks, including for drunk driving, accident history, and criminal charges related to reckless driving or vehicle misuse.

In addition to the above requirements, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft must comply with Sami’s Law, enacted in New Jersey in 2019. The law mandates enhanced identification measures for rideshare vehicles to improve passenger safety.

The requirements include placing two identifying markers on the front windshield and rear window. Uber drivers must also use barcodes for passengers to scan and verify the vehicle. Credential placards on the driver and passenger side rear windows should display the driver’s name, photo, and license plate number.

Despite establishing standards to improve safety, Uber drivers and passengers are still at risk of hazards on the road. For example, other negligent drivers may cause collisions, or a rideshare vehicle may run a red light. Distracted driving, speeding, and other forms of carelessness behind the wheel can cause dangerous collisions.

Uber Accident Injuries in Dover

Accidents involving Uber vehicles can result in wide-ranging injuries. Depending on the nature of the crash, the injuries can be severe and require extensive medical treatment.

• Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries: These injuries can lead to permanent pain, impaired movement, or paralysis, significantly impacting daily life and activities.
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Brain injuries result from a sudden blow or jolt to the head, common in vehicle crashes. TBIs can cause memory issues, mood changes, headaches, dizziness, and more severe disabilities.
• Broken bones: The force of a crash can cause anything from hairline fractures to shattered bones, often requiring surgery and implants.
• Amputations: Severe crashes can lead to immediate or medically necessary amputations, permanently altering a person’s mobility and daily functioning.

If you have been injured in an Uber accident in Dover, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel fine initially, symptoms can develop later. Follow your doctor’s instructions, attend all follow-up appointments, and ask questions about your care to ensure proper recovery.

What to Do After an Uber Accident

If you are involved in an Uber accident in Dover, try not to panic. The moments after a crash can be disorienting and distressing. Nevertheless, remembering to take the steps below can help your physical recovery and support any personal injury claim you decide to pursue in the future.

• Safety first: Call 911. Do not move severely injured people to avoid worsening their injuries. Use hazard lights and flares to make the accident site visible to traffic.
• Collect information: Gather contact details from the Uber driver and any witnesses. Document the scene with photos or notes.
• Communicate what happened: Stay on the scene to speak with police and first responders. Report the crash to Uber.
• See a doctor: Get medical attention to diagnose and treat your injuries. Adrenaline can mask pain initially, so symptoms may appear later.
• Track and document: Keep all paperwork related to the crash and your injuries, including medical bills, vehicle repair receipts, and lost wages documentation.
• Contact a lawyer: Consult with a knowledgeable Dover Uber accident attorney to find out about the possibility of obtaining compensation for your accident-related costs.

Talk to an Experienced Dover Uber Accident Lawyer Today

If you have suffered serious injuries in an Uber accident, the dedicated Dover Uber accident attorneys at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm are here for you. For over 30 years, we have helped injured clients secure more than $100 million in compensation for their accidents. We will hold negligent drivers accountable and fight for the justice you deserve.

We recognize the challenges you face after a ridesharing collision and are committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through recovery. To schedule a FREE consultation today, call 973-920-7900 or connect with us online. There is no fee unless we win your case. Our offices are conveniently located in Denville and Morristown, New Jersey.