Montclair, New Jersey Uber Accident Lawyers

Rideshare services like Uber have become part of everyday life for many people. They offer a convenient way to get to work, travel around town, or return home after a late night without the stress of parking or driving yourself. However, as the number of Uber vehicles grows, so does the risk of accidents involving rideshare drivers and passengers. These collisions raise questions about liability, and the answers are not always straightforward.

In a busy community like Montclair, where Bloomfield Avenue, Valley Road and other main routes are often crowded with traffic, Uber accidents are unfortunately not uncommon. At the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm, we help people injured in Uber crashes in Montclair and throughout New Jersey pursue the compensation they deserve. Our Montclair Uber accident lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and navigate the claims process.

Uber in Montclair

Montclair is a vibrant township in Essex County, located around 12 miles west of New York City. With nearly 41,000 residents, Montclair is known for its diverse community, rich cultural scene and beautiful neighborhoods.

Many locals drive daily, whether for school runs or commuting to work. Nevertheless, the popularity of rideshare services like Uber has grown in recent years. Parking can be limited in popular areas, and the average commute time is more than 30 minutes, making Uber an appealing option.

You will often see Uber pickups and drop-offs at Montclair State University, where thousands of students rely on ridesharing for transportation. The Montclair Art Museum, Wellmont Theater and downtown restaurants are other frequent hot spots. During major events like the Montclair Film Festival, Uber traffic picks up even more. Outdoor spaces such as Brookdale Park and Edgemont Memorial Park also draw locals who use rideshare services.

Common Injuries from Uber Accidents

Essex County had 5,094 injury crashes in 2023, according to the New Jersey Department of Transportation. While specific data on nonfatal Uber accidents in New Jersey may not be widely available, the nature of rideshare services means that car accidents can happen at any time.

The injuries that result from Uber accidents vary widely. Some people walk away with only minor scrapes, while others face life-altering conditions. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash and neck strains from the sudden force of impact
• Cuts, bruises and broken bones
• Back and spinal cord injuries, which can cause lasting pain or limited mobility
• Head trauma, including concussions or more serious brain injuries
• Internal injuries that may not be obvious right away but can become life-threatening if untreated
• Soft tissue injuries that cause lingering discomfort and reduced range of motion

It is also common for Uber accident victims to experience emotional effects such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress. These harms are just as real as physical injuries and should be considered when calculating fair compensation.

The Importance of Medical Documentation

After a Montclair Uber accident, it is crucial to see a doctor even if you feel fine at first. Injuries like internal bleeding or concussions may not be apparent as symptoms don’t always appear right away. Visiting a healthcare professional creates documentation that will later support your claim. Keep copies of medical records, bills and correspondence with doctors. These records help establish the full extent of your injuries and the costs associated with treatment.

Understanding Uber Accident Claims in New Jersey

A 2024 University of Illinois Chicago survey found that around one-third of rideshare drivers admitted to being involved in an accident on the job. Fatigued driving, cellphone use and driving in unfamiliar areas were identified as factors that increased the likelihood of a collision.

An Uber accident is different from a typical car crash because there are more players involved. Multiple drivers, passengers and insurance policies may be at stake. Uber also provides certain coverage depending on the stage of the ride when the accident occurred.

If you are hurt in a rideshare accident, it is vital to act quickly. Seeking medical care is the first step, not just for your health but also to create a clear record of your injuries. The next step is speaking with an experienced Montclair Uber accident attorney who can sort through the insurance layers and fight for your recovery.

The Todd J. Leonard Law Firm has years of experience handling complex claims. We know how to hold negligent drivers and large corporations accountable, and our team stands by Montclair residents when they need help the most.

Navigating the Insurance Landscape

Uber accidents present unique insurance considerations based on the timing and circumstances of the collision. Which policy applies depends on what the driver was doing during the crash. New Jersey law dictates certain insurance responsibilities for rideshare drivers:

• When a driver accepts a ride: Uber maintains a commercial policy with $1.5 million in liability coverage for death, bodily injury and property damage, along with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
• When a driver is logged into the app but has no passenger: The coverage includes $50,000 for bodily injury per person, $100,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage.
• If an Uber driver is not logged into the app during a crash: The incident is treated like a standard vehicle accident and involves personal auto insurance.

Filing a Montclair Uber Accident Claim

In New Jersey, Uber accident victims must adhere to strict timelines when pursuing claims. Typically, you have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline could mean you can no longer recover damages. Therefore, it is important to reach out to a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident.

Your Montclair Uber accident attorney will help identify the responsible parties and gather evidence to support your claim, such as witness testimony, medical records, and proof of lost wages. Compensation in a Montclair Uber accident claim may include:

• Medical expenses incurred
• Vehicle repair or replacement costs
• Lost wages due to missed work
• Damages for pain and suffering

Contact Our Montclair Uber Accident Lawyers at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm Today!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Montclair Uber accident, reach out to the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm for immediate assistance. Attorney Todd Leonard is a Certified Trial Lawyer with more than 30 years of experience helping accident victims recover the compensation they need to overcome the hurdles they face, now and in the future.

The Montclair Uber accident attorneys at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm take an individualized approach to every case, ensuring each client gets the attention they deserve. Over the years, the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm has recovered a total of more than $100 million on behalf of our clients.  

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. We have two conveniently located offices in Denville and Morristown, New Jersey.