If you have been in a crash with an Uber driver, it is important to follow certain steps after the accident. First, ensure everyone is safe and get medical attention, if necessary.
Gather any information about the accident scene, your injuries, and financial losses. Be sure to hire a lawyer to sue Lyft; having documentation will help your rideshare accident lawyer paint a picture of your damages.
Call the Police
If you’re in an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, you must call the police. This will ensure that the crash is documented, and it can help establish fault in the event of a legal claim.
Once the police have arrived, make sure to get their contact information and the names and insurance details of everyone involved in the crash. This will help when filing an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit. Report the crash through the Uber app so that Uber’s $1 million in insurance coverage can apply to your case.
Get Medical Attention
It is imperative to seek medical attention after any accident, even if the injuries seem minor. Even seemingly mild symptoms like a headache or numbness can indicate serious injuries, such as whiplash. Medical evaluations also provide documentation of your injuries, which is important for future insurance or personal injury claims.
Mobility apps have insurance policies covering accidents that occur while drivers are on the clock or providing a ride through their apps. However, many people don’t know that they also have insurance coverage through their auto policy.
Gather Evidence
The evidence you gather at the scene of a rideshare accident is vital to proving your case. Having the right information can help you receive the compensation you deserve from negligent drivers.
Be sure to document the accident scene by taking pictures from multiple angles, including shots of the vehicles involved. It’s also a good idea to write down the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the crash occur.
If you open the mobility app, report the accident to the company immediately using its in-app emergency button. This step ensures that you have an official, indisputable record of the incident.
Take Witness Statements
Speak with witnesses about what they saw at the scene of the crash. This could include passersby or people who stopped to help you. Obtain their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Also, ask if they would be willing to write down their account of what happened.
Eyewitness statements can make a big difference when judges and juries review rideshare accident cases. They can also strengthen your claim for compensation from the responsible party.
Contact an Attorney
Whether you’re a driver or passenger, the right attorney can make all the difference in your claim. Insurance providers are skilled at wriggling out of paying compensation, but an experienced accident lawyer can keep them honest.
Assess all passengers and drivers for injuries as soon as it’s safe. Do not leave the scene until you fully understand how the crash occurred.
Inform the rideshare company about the incident through the app or customer support. Avoid making any comments to company representatives, especially admitting any fault for the accident.
Get a Copy of the Police Report
Like after any car accident, you should report the crash to the police. This will help the driver’s insurance company to determine if their generous policy applies.
Ensure you give your side of the story to the officers at the scene. Avoid admitting fault, as this could negatively impact your future settlement amount.
Additionally, you should also report the crash to the company. You can do this in the app by going to Trip and Fare Review or Help and tapping “I was involved in a crash.” Make sure you include all the important information about the crash.
File a Claim
Whether you are a driver or passenger, mobility apps require that you report all accidents. While you may be tempted to skip this step, this is critical to protecting your right to recover compensation for your injuries and property damage. Rideshare companies will investigate your accident, and you should expect a representative to contact you for a statement.
These important steps will help you file an insurance claim and receive the maximum compensation for your injuries. This is crucial, as a single accident can lead to medical bills, lost wages, and other damages you deserve.
