Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have eased transportation by offering convenience and affordability to millions. However, with the rise of ridesharing, accidents involving these services have also increased.
If you are injured in a rideshare accident – whether as a passenger, another driver, or even a pedestrian – it is crucial to take the right steps to protect your health, rights, and financial recovery. Rideshare accident claims can be complex due to multiple parties involved.
This guide will walk you through the eight essential steps to take if you are injured in a rideshare accident.
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Get Immediate Medical Care
Your health should always be the top priority after any accident. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but could become serious later.
Getting medical attention not only ensures your well-being but also creates an official medical record that will be essential if you file a claim.
Delaying medical care can harm both your health and your legal case. Insurance companies and rideshare companies often look for reasons to downplay or deny claims. If you wait too long to see a doctor, they may argue that your injuries were not severe or were caused by something other than the accident.
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Call the Police and Report the Accident
After a rideshare accident, call 911 and request police assistance. A police report serves as an official record of the accident and is a crucial piece of evidence in any insurance or legal claim. The officers will document the scene, gather statements from all parties involved, and determine any potential traffic violations.
Without a police report, proving liability can be much more challenging, especially if the at-fault party denies responsibility. Be honest with the officers about what happened, but avoid speculating or admitting fault. Request a copy of the accident report once it is available, as it will be valuable when dealing with insurance companies or legal proceedings.
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Collect Information from the Rideshare Driver and Other Parties
Exchanging information with all involved parties is crucial. Obtain the rideshare driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance details. Additionally, ask for the rideshare company’s information and take a screenshot of your ride details from the Uber or Lyft app, as this can help verify that the driver was actively working at the time of the crash.
If other drivers were involved, collect their contact and insurance information as well. In multi-vehicle accidents, liability can become complicated, and having comprehensive details will help protect your rights. If possible, note the make, model, and color of all vehicles involved in the accident.
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Take Photos and Videos of the Accident Scene
Visual evidence can significantly strengthen your claim. Use your phone to take clear photos of the accident scene from different angles. Capture images of vehicle damage, license plates, street signs, traffic signals, skid marks, and any visible injuries.
If you can, record a video that provides an overview of the accident scene. Witness statements and accident reports are important, but pictures and videos offer undeniable proof of what happened. If you are too injured to take photos, ask a passenger or bystander for help.
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Collect Witness Information
If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information. Neutral third-party witnesses can provide valuable testimony about how the accident occurred, especially if the at-fault driver tries to dispute their responsibility.
Witnesses can also confirm details such as the speed of the vehicles, the traffic conditions, and whether the rideshare driver was behaving recklessly. If possible, ask them to write down what they saw or record a brief statement on your phone. Their statements could play a crucial role in proving liability later on.
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Consult a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Hiring a rideshare accident lawyer can significantly affect the outcome of your case. An attorney will investigate the accident, collect crucial evidence, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court.
Since rideshare claims involve large corporations with strong legal teams, having a skilled lawyer on your side provides the required assistance.
A lawyer can also assess the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses and long-term impacts on your life. Many personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t have to pay unless they win your case. Consulting with a lawyer as soon as possible increases your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
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Notify the Rideshare Company About the Accident
Reporting the accident to Uber or Lyft is essential for filing an insurance claim. Both companies have dedicated reporting systems for accidents involving their drivers. Open the rideshare app and find the section where you can report an accident. Follow the instructions and provide accurate details about the incident.
Rideshare companies carry insurance policies that may provide coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. If the driver was actively transporting a passenger or on their way to pick up a ride, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage. However, if the driver was not logged into the app, their personal insurance would apply instead.
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Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice
After the accident, you may receive calls from insurance adjusters representing Uber, Lyft, or the at-fault driver. While they may seem friendly, remember that their goal is to minimize payouts. They might ask leading questions or pressure you into accepting a low settlement.
Never admit fault, speculate about the accident, or agree to a recorded statement without consulting an attorney. Even a simple comment like “I’m feeling okay” can be used against you later. A personal injury lawyer can help you go through these conversations and ensure that you do not say anything that could jeopardize your claim.
Since rideshare accidents involve unique legal challenges, by following these steps, you can get the justice you deserve for your losses.
