Getting hurt in a rideshare crash as a passenger can leave you wondering how to handle medical bills and other heavy financial burdens. You might assume the company will pay for everything automatically, but a rideshare accident claim usually comes with unique challenges. Here is what you need to know.
What does the law say?
Uber or Lyft usually gives coverage to the passengers or other parties who get injured in an accident. However, the coverage largely depends on the driver’s app status during the accident. If a driver was using the app but was not accepting any rides, state law requires lower minimum liability coverage. During this phase, required coverage includes at least $50,000 for each individual person and $100,000 in total per accident for bodily injury or death. It also mandates a minimum of $25,000 to cover property damage, along with personal injury protection benefits. Coverage increases significantly during an active trip. In that phase, New Jersey law requires at least $1,500,000 for death, bodily injury and property damage.
When may you not get coverage?
If the driver’s app was completely off during the crash, commercial insurance does not apply. In this situation, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage would typically be your first source of recovery for medical expenses. If the driver was at fault and your damages exceed your PIP limits, you may have additional options, including a liability claim against the driver’s personal auto policy, depending on whether your injuries meet New Jersey’s lawsuit threshold requirements. Complications can also arise if the driver’s insurance coverage lapses before the collision.
How an attorney may help
Because New Jersey is a no-fault state, getting fair compensation can feel confusing. An experienced auto accident attorney can review your personal injury claim and help you identify the right insurance coverage. They can also negotiate on your behalf to seek a better outcome.