The use of rideshare services has exploded in New Jersey and elsewhere in the United States. Originally, drivers for companies such as Uber and Lyft replicated traditional taxicabs, transporting passengers without access to a car, and ferrying people to and from the airport. From there, rideshare contractors started delivering meals and packages to people’s homes. In the past couple of years, New Jersey Transit (NJT) has used Uber and Lyft vehicles to meet the needs of riders with disabilities.
Under the Access Link Riders’ Choice Program, people who normally would have used NJT’s paratransit vehicles had the option to use Uber and Lyft as an alternative to traditional Access Link vans and buses. Applicants have been given a number of vouchers that they could use with these rideshare providers. This initiative has aimed to reduce wait times and improve performance for customers with disabilities. Having received a generally favorable reaction since its May 2023 introduction, NJT recently extended the program so that it reaches 14 of the state’s 21 counties.
However, while the program offers greater flexibility, concerns over safety have led to a major change for customers who want to use rideshare services over traditional paratransit options. While Uber and Lyft are the most popular brands in their industry, their drivers are contractors without any significant training in road safety or the transportation of disabled individuals.
This prompted an investigation from the U.S. Department of Justice regarding compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and concerns about safety measures, such as driver drug and alcohol testing, that Uber and Lyft don’t require. As a result, NJT notified Riders’ Choice participants that those rideshare giants can no longer be used starting June 30. However, two lesser-known rideshare services, Uzurv and VIA, do comply with federal standards, making them eligible for the program.
Paratransit services like Access Link operate under strict regulatory frameworks, ensuring consistent safety standards and accountability. Rideshare companies, while subject to regulations, may not adhere to the same level of oversight, potentially leading to inconsistencies in service quality and safety. Whether you’re looking for a car through one of the NJT-approved providers or just need an Uber to get to Newark Airport, it is important to understand the danger of getting in a rideshare accident. In a survey, approximately one in three Uber and Lyft drivers said they’d been in a crash while on the job.
If you have been hurt in a collision involving a rideshare vehicle, the New Jersey lawyers at Seigel Law in Ridgewood can advise you of the applicable insurance coverage and pursue full payment for your injuries. We have recovered more than $500 million for plaintiffs. To schedule a free consultation about how we can help you, please call 201-444-4000 or contact us online.