What to Do If You Are in a Rideshare Accident
Rideshares have revolutionized how we get around, but they’ve also introduced some sticky legal problems. In general, a rideshare accident is not much different from a regular car accident – though there are a few key distinctions to be aware of. Understanding what to do in the event of an accident and how the process works will help to relieve some of the stress that is involved with each and every accident. Follow these steps if you’re involved in a rideshare accident:
Call the Police
Even though you are not the driver, it is good to assess yourself and the persons around you. If the Uber car accident was very severe, there may be varying degrees of injuries. Similar to when you are in an accident in a private car, when you are a passenger in an Uber accident call 911 if necessary and seek medical attention. Like any type of car accident, you should call the police if there’s significant damage and once it’s safe to do so. The officer will file an official report, which will be crucial evidence if you intend to pursue damages against the parties responsible.
Document the Event
The police will gather evidence in an official report, but you should also make note of what happened for your own records. Again, when it’s safe to do so, write down or record a message or video explaining what happened. Note the road and weather conditions, if anyone was speeding, the rideshare company involved, your driver’s name and information, any other involved parties’ names and their contact information, insurance information and all other details relevant to the accident. If issues arise when you file a claim, the information that you collect can be very helpful in proving your case.
Get Medical Attention
It’s important that you see a doctor if you were involved in any type of rideshare accident. Some symptoms may not manifest immediately, and if you delay, it may look like the pain was caused by some other event or that the accident wasn’t serious since you didn’t go to a hospital initially. Plus, a doctor’s official documentation of any injuries will be key to receiving compensation for personal injury damages.
Work with an Attorney
Companies such as Uber and Lyft have their own insurance, you may carry your own insurance, and other drivers involved in a collision may have their own insurance. Gathering evidence and facilitating a claim between all these parties can be complex, and it’s easy for your needs to be minimized or totally ignored. Work with an attorney to ensure this doesn’t happen.
Being in a collision is scary, and when you’re just a passenger at the mercy of a rideshare company, it can feel like you have no legal recourse for your injuries. Let the injury attorneys at Suarez & Montero review the circumstances of your accident and discuss your legal options. Our attorneys have represented clients who have been injured in rideshare accidents and are ready to provide proven legal representation in pursuing your claim and stand ready to protect your rights.
Contact us today at 786 Lawyers for a free consultation!
