Montclair, New Jersey Lyft Accident Lawyers

Montclair is a vibrant township in Essex County, New Jersey, home to a population of more than 40,000. Commuting to work, running errands, visiting downtown or traveling to nearby cities are a regular part of life in the area. While many residents prefer to drive their own vehicles, others rely on rideshare services to get around.

Lyft is a convenient option, providing on-demand transportation with just a few taps on a smartphone app. Just like any other vehicle, rideshare cars can also get into crashes that cause serious injuries. If you have been involved in a Lyft accident, you have the right to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other costs. The Todd J. Leonard Law Firm is ready to guide you through the complex claims process. 

Where Lyft Rides Are Most Common in Montclair

Rideshare services have changed the way Montclair locals move around the area. The average commute in the township is around 35 minutes, reflecting broader Essex County traffic patterns and the need for flexible transportation. Lyft provides a reliable option for avoiding parking challenges, late-night travel, or the stress of driving in traffic.

Certain parts of Montclair see particularly high demand for Lyft rides. Popular spots include the Montclair Art Museum, which draws art lovers from across New Jersey, the Wellmont Theater for concerts and performances, and outdoor spaces like Brookdale Park and Edgemont Memorial Park. Downtown Montclair is another hotspot, with residents frequently using Lyft to get to restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and community events.

Students at Montclair State University also contribute to rideshare usage, relying on Lyft for quick trips across campus or to nearby transportation hubs. Traffic congestion in busy areas, particularly during rush hour or major events, can increase the risk of accidents.

Injuries Common in Lyft Accidents

According to Lyft’s 2024 Safety Transparency Report, there were 111 motor vehicle fatalities nationwide from 2020 to 2022. The company noted a 31 percent rise in the number of such incidents since the previous report, highlighting the importance of understanding your rights as a passenger or driver in case a crash occurs.

Although accidents involving Lyft vehicles are not always fatal, they can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-altering. The first and most important thing to do after a crash is to get medical treatment. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Cuts and bruises from impact or contact with the vehicle interior
• Whiplash, which occurs when the head is violently jerked forward and backward
• Head injuries, ranging from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries
• Back injuries, including herniated discs, fractures or chronic pain
• Spinal cord injuries, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis
• Broken bones that require surgery and rehabilitation
• Soft tissue injuries affecting muscles, tendons and ligaments
• Internal injuries that may not be immediately visible but require urgent medical attention

Beyond physical injuries, Montclair Lyft accidents can result in emotional trauma. Crash victims may experience depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress. At the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm, our attorneys always strive to ensure that the compensation you receive covers both physical and emotional damages.

Pursuing Compensation for a Lyft Accident in Montclair

Accidents involving rideshare vehicles can become legally complicated due to the multiple parties involved, including the driver, passengers, other motorists, and Lyft itself. Having an experienced Montclair Lyft accident attorney on your side can make a significant difference in navigating these claims and the complex insurance policies involved.

In New Jersey, the following coverage applies depending on the Lyft driver’s status at the time of the collision:

• When a Lyft driver accepts a ride and is transporting a passenger, state law requires at least $1.5 million in liability coverage. This insurance applies to bodily injury, death and property damage resulting from a crash. If the Lyft driver caused the accident, you can file a lawsuit against the driver, Lyft itself, or both.
• If the driver is logged into the Lyft app but has not yet accepted a ride, coverage is $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• When the driver is offline and not using the app, an accident is generally treated like any other car crash and is handled through the driver’s personal auto insurance.

Because New Jersey’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident, it’s a good idea to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. Missing crucial deadlines can mean you lose your right to compensation.

FAQs About Lyft Accidents in Montclair

Who can be held responsible if I am injured as a Lyft passenger?

Liability varies based on the facts of the accident. In many cases, the Lyft driver is responsible, but other drivers or even Lyft itself may also be held accountable depending on the circumstances. An experienced attorney can help you determine who was at fault for your injuries.

Can Lyft drivers file claims if they are injured in an accident?

Yes, drivers can pursue compensation for injuries sustained during a ride. The process depends on whether the driver was carrying a passenger, waiting for a ride request or logged off the Lyft app.

Contact the Montclair Lyft Accident Lawyers at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Lyft accident in Montclair, the team at the Todd J. Leonard Law Firm is ready to help. With over 35 years of experience in personal injury law, our firm has a strong record of securing compensation for clients involved in rideshare accidents. We are dedicated to ensuring you receive the justice you deserve.

To learn more and to schedule a free consultation, call us today at 973-920-7900. You can also connect with us through our online form. You pay nothing unless we win your case. With two offices conveniently located in Denville and Morristown, our team is prepared to support you every step of the way.