Franklin Township Uber Accident Lawyers

Experienced Car Accident Lawyers Dedicated to Helping Accident Victims in Somerset County Recover Meaningful Compensation After an Accident

Uber may have changed the way we get from Point A to Point B, but the company’s business model is far from flawless. Uber undoubtedly provides convenience, but at what cost? According to Uber’s own study, between 2019 and 2020, there were 20 fatalities and 3,824 sexual assaults reported by Uber passengers and drivers. In addition, there have been countless Uber accidents resulting in serious injuries to passengers, pedestrians and cyclists. Whether it’s due to inexperienced, distracted, or aggressive rideshare drivers can be debated, but what’s beyond argument is that Franklin Township Uber accidents are on the rise. 

At the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm, our dedicated team of Franklin Township Uber accident lawyers is committed to helping rideshare passengers obtain fair compensation for what they’ve been through. For more than 30 years, we’ve aggressively represented car accident victims throughout New Jersey, connecting them with the damages they need, deserve, and are legally entitled to. 

Reach out to our Franklin Township rideshare accident lawyers to schedule a free consultation today by calling us at 973-920-7900. 

Uber Driver Requirements and Passenger Protection

Uber drivers must meet strict criteria during enrollment, ensuring safety and proficiency. Candidates should be at least 21 years old with a minimum of three years driving experience. Their vehicle must be insured under their name in the operating state. Uber conducts thorough background checks, examining history for drunk driving, accidents, or relevant criminal charges.

Rideshare companies, including Uber and Lyft, must adhere to Sami’s Law in New Jersey. Enacted in 2019, this law bolsters passenger safety by mandating enhanced identification materials for drivers. The law requires specific markers, machine-readable codes, and credential placards to verify identity and increase visibility during darkness. These standards mitigate risks posed by drivers and other potential sources, ensuring comprehensive safety for all Uber users.

Potential Causes of an Uber Accident in Franklin Township

Uber and other rideshare companies have revolutionized transportation by providing convenient and affordable options for passengers. However, with the increasing popularity of these services, there has also been a rise in rideshare accidents. There are many potential causes of an Uber accident, the most common of which include the following:

Driver Fatigue

Rideshare drivers often work long hours to meet their financial goals, and many drivers even work full-time jobs before they start their rideshare shifts. The result is that rideshare drivers are more likely to get tired while behind the wheel. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and impaired decision-making abilities, increasing the likelihood of accidents. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control reports that being awake for 17 hours straight has a similar impact on a driver’s abilities as if they had a blood alcohol content of 0.05%, which is just under the legal limit. And staying awake for 24 hours equates to a blood alcohol content of .10%, which is well over the legal limit. 

Distracted Driving

In general, distracted driving is a leading cause of all car accidents.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (“NHTSA”) found that 3,142 people were killed in distracted driving accidents in 2020 alone. Rideshare drivers are particularly likely to get distracted while driving. Some of the most common distractions include mobile devices, GPS navigation, or engaging in conversations with passengers. These distractions divert their attention from the road and may result in collisions or near misses. 

Inexperienced Drivers

While rideshare companies have some basic driver screening processes, the training provided to drivers may not always be comprehensive. Insufficient training can lead to drivers lacking the essential skills needed to handle challenging driving situations.

Traffic Violations

Some drivers may engage in aggressive driving behavior, such as speeding, running red lights, or making unsafe lane changes, to complete more rides and earn more money per shirt. These traffic violations significantly increase the risk of accidents.

Poor Road Conditions

Rideshare drivers must take passengers wherever they request to go. Thus, rideshare drivers often find themselves navigating unfamiliar routes, which can lead to misjudgments and difficulty anticipating hazards, especially in adverse weather conditions and during times of heavy traffic. 

Vehicle Maintenance 

Poorly maintained vehicles can experience mechanical failures that cause car accidents. Rideshare drivers typically use their personal vehicles for transportation. And, while Uber imposes basic vehicle requirements, there are few enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance among drivers. As a result, it is not uncommon for rideshare drivers to neglect regular maintenance due to cost concerns. 

Intoxication and Substance Abuse

While the consumption of drugs or alcohol is against Uber’s rideshare driver policies—as well as the law—there have been instances of rideshare drivers operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Impaired driving poses a significant risk to both drivers and passengers.

Communication and Technology Issues

Glitches in the rideshare app, incorrect pickup locations, or communication breakdowns between drivers and passengers can lead to confusion and potential accidents.

To address these potential causes, rideshare companies must prioritize safety and implement measures to ensure driver accountability, including periodic training and performance evaluations. Stricter background checks and regular vehicle inspections can also help ensure that only responsible and qualified individuals become rideshare drivers.

Passengers also play a crucial role in their safety by wearing seat belts, avoiding disruptive behavior, and providing feedback to the rideshare companies in case of any concerns about driver behavior. Of course, even the most cautious and attentive rideshare passengers can do little to avoid an Uber accident from the back seat. 

Critical Steps to Take After an Uber Accident in Franklin Township

Responding After an Uber Accident

When an Uber accident occurs, your actions in the immediate aftermath are critical. Prioritize safety by dialing 911 promptly and refraining from moving severely injured individuals, as this could worsen their condition. Employ hazard lights, flares, or other tools to enhance visibility at the accident site, ensuring the safety of all involved.

Gathering Essential Information

Collecting pertinent information is crucial. Obtain contact details from the driver and any witnesses present. Capture the scene using your smartphone, camera, or pen and paper. This might involve taking photos or creating diagrams that accurately represent the situation.

Effective Communication and Legal Guidance

Notify Uber about the incident and seek legal counsel from the experienced Franklin Township Uber Accident Attorneys at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm. They can guide you through your rights and potential actions should you decide to pursue a claim.

Prioritizing Medical Attention and Documentation

Timely medical evaluation ensures prompt diagnosis and proper care. You may not feel immediate pain, but it’s essential to consult a medical professional after a serious rideshare accident. Chemical reactions in your body can mask injuries initially, making them noticeable only later. 

Navigating Post-Uber Accident Steps

Dealing with an Uber accident involves a sequence of important actions to ensure your safety and rights. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Prioritize Safety First

Immediately after an accident, prioritize the safety of everyone involved. Dial 911 to summon emergency assistance. If someone is seriously injured, avoid moving them, as doing so might exacerbate their injuries. Employ hazard lights, flares, or other visual aids to enhance the visibility of the accident site to other drivers.

Gather Vital Information

When circumstances allow, exchange contact details with the Uber driver and any potential witnesses. Employ your smartphone, a camera, or simply pen and paper to document the scene visually. This documentation could prove crucial later.

Stay Engaged and Report

Remain at the accident scene and cooperate with law enforcement and first responders as required. Promptly notify Uber about the accident. Furthermore, considering consulting an experienced New Jersey Uber Accident Attorney from the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm. They can provide valuable insights into your legal rights and outline the potential trajectory of your case if you choose to file a claim.

Seek Medical Evaluation

In the immediate aftermath of a collision, your body’s response, including the release of adrenaline, may mask injuries. This can lead to delayed onset of pain or other symptoms. To ensure your health and establish a medical record, it’s imperative to see a doctor, even if you initially feel fine.

Document and Preserve

Efficiently organize all documentation pertaining to the accident. This includes crash-related details, medical records, and receipts. Safeguard records of medical expenses, as well as any financial losses incurred due to the accident. Keep a comprehensive log of conversations related to the accident – date, time, individuals involved, and the content of discussions. This comprehensive approach aids in substantiating your claims and strengthens your legal position.

In the event of an Uber accident, these steps serve as a practical guide to navigating the aftermath effectively.

Damages Available Through a Franklin Township Uber Accident Lawsuit

In New Jersey, if you are involved in an Uber accident, you may be entitled to several different types of monetary damages to compensate you for your injuries and losses. These damages can be classified into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are the quantifiable and tangible losses resulting from the car accident. They are relatively straightforward to calculate, as they involve verifiable expenses and financial losses. Common types of economic damages in New Jersey Uber accident cases include:

Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of medical treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, prescription medications, physical therapy, and any other medical expenses incurred as a result of the accident. These damages also cover any future medical care that may be needed. 

Property Damage: Reimbursement for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property, such as personal belongings inside the car at the time of the accident.

Lost Wages: Compensation for the income you lost while recovering from injuries, attending medical appointments, or dealing with the aftermath of the accident.

Loss of Earning Capacity: In more severe cases, if the accident leaves you with a permanent disability that affects your ability to work, you may be awarded damages for the reduction in your future earning potential.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more subjective and do not have a clear monetary value. They compensate for the intangible losses you experience due to the accident. Common non-economic damages in New Jersey car accident cases include:

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and suffering caused by the accident and its aftermath.

Emotional Distress: Damages for the psychological impact of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (“PTSD”).

Loss of Consortium: This type of damage compensates your spouse or family for the loss of companionship, support, and services as a result of the accident.

While there are various types of damages available to an Uber accident victim, it is essential to note that New Jersey operates under a “modified comparative negligence” rule, which means if you are found partially at fault for the accident, the compensation you receive may be reduced according to your percentage of fault. While this is unlikely to come up in a rideshare accident case, it isn’t unheard of. 

Additionally, punitive damages may be awarded in cases of extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct by the at-fault party. Consulting an experienced Franklin Township Uber accident lawyer can help ensure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to, based on the specific facts of your case.

Choosing an Experienced Franklin Township Uber Accident Lawyer

Whether you drive for Uber or use the service as a passenger, an Uber accident can seriously disrupt your daily life. If you’ve been injured in a crash, seek medical attention immediately. Keep copies of all your medical paperwork. Once you’re on the road to medical recovery, reach out to an experienced Franklin Township Uber accident attorney. The team at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm is here to answer your questions. Call us today to schedule a free and confidential case evaluation.