Your next steps may be unclear after a rideshare accident in Linden, NJ. You might be struggling with painful, debilitating, and expensive injuries. As your medical bills begin to pile up, you may face additional financial pressures due to lost income. To make matters worse, the psychological trauma of these crashes can be crippling – especially if you have experienced disfiguring injuries or brain injuries. Fortunately, there is no need to navigate your next few steps alone. Once you get in touch with an experienced rideshare accident attorney in Linden, NJ, you can proceed with confidence.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me After a Rideshare Accident in Linden, NJ?
Located in Union County, Linden is a city with a population of about 40,000. Technically, it is part of the New York Metropolitan area, as it borders Staten Island. Originally founded in 1861, the city was named after linden trees brought with settlers all the way from Germany. Despite these German roots, Linden is best known for its Polish population. Unfortunately, many local residents struggle to get from point A to B. With the shortcomings of the transit system and the cost of taxis, rideshare apps have proven quite popular.
A rideshare lawyer in Linden can help you pursue compensation for any injuries you suffered as a result of Uber or Lyft vehicles. They can investigate your accident in more detail to determine the root cause. They may also help you collect important evidence – such as medical records and pay stubs. During an initial consultation, a lawyer can carefully examine your unique situation and recommend the most appropriate course of legal action.
Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents in Linden, NJ
In many ways, rideshare accidents are very similar to normal car accidents. As a result, many rideshare collisions are caused by the same basic factors that cause other crashes. However, there are numerous factors that make rideshare accidents unique. These distinctive factors are worth considering when determining the root cause of rideshare collisions:
- Distraction: Unfortunately, the nature of rideshare apps makes distraction a common cause of accidents. Throughout each working day, drivers find themselves constantly glancing down at screens. These screens display requested rides, GPS data, and other important factors. If drivers are not constantly active on these apps, they may lose potential income. As a result, rideshare drivers are inherently more likely to become distracted on the road. Even if they take their eyes off the street for a brief moment, this can be enough to spark a major accident.
- Intoxication: Uber and Lyft drivers are just as likely to become intoxicated as any other motorist. In fact, some impairing drugs have proven especially popular among commercial drivers. Staying awake for long periods can be challenging, and many commercial drivers use stimulants to remain alert. However, these drugs can cause lapses in judgment, aggression, and other side effects that increase the chances of accidents. Even prescription or over-the-counter drugs can lead to impaired driving charges.
- Unsafe Stops: Rideshare drivers are constantly pulling over to pick up or drop off passengers. This poses risks to not only passengers, but also passing motorists. A pedestrian might be forced to get out of an Uber or Lyft vehicle in an unsafe location. For example, they might be struck by a passing car after stepping out. This issue is particularly dangerous when you consider the tendency for passengers to be heavily intoxicated. Cyclists may also be “doored” by Uber or Lyft vehicles.
- Traffic Violations: Rideshare drivers often show a willingness to commit numerous traffic infractions in the pursuit of higher earnings. They may believe that cutting corners (sometimes literally) is a worthwhile risk to earn a few extra dollars each day. Speeding, unsafe U-turns, and various other reckless maneuvers are quite common – and they can easily lead to rideshare accidents.
Common Injuries After Rideshare Accidents in Linden, NJ
Linden residents may suffer various injuries caused by rideshare accidents. Here are just a few examples:
- Whiplash: This type of injury is especially common in a rear-end accident. If your vehicle was rear-ended by an Uber or Lyft vehicle, you might have been jolted forward with considerable force. This may lead to serious discomfort and stiffness in your neck. Although whiplash is generally seen as a “moderate” injury, it can nonetheless cause expensive appointments with chiropractors and physiotherapists. It may also cause you to miss weeks or months of work.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries: Also known simply as a “TBI,” a traumatic brain injury is one of the most serious potential consequences of a car accident. In many cases, these injuries prove fatal due to internal brain bleeds. In other cases, victims recover but struggle with permanent cognitive decline, motor control issues, behavioral changes, and many other issues. Even a relatively light TBI can have drastic, life-altering consequences.
- Fractures: Another common injury is a fracture. Almost every bone in the human body can be broken by a rideshare accident – including legs, knees, arms, wrists, fingers, ribs, and clavicles.
Find a Qualified Rideshare Accident Attorney in Linden, NJ
If you have been searching for an experienced rideshare accident attorney in Linden, NJ, look no further than the Smith & Williams Law Firm, LLC. Over the years, we have helped numerous injured plaintiffs pursue compensation after rideshare accidents. Regardless of how hopeless your situation may seem, there is always a potential pathway toward meaningful compensation. A successful injury claim can cover your medical bills, missed income, emotional distress, and many other damages. Reach out today to begin this legal process with confidence.
