Rideshare services have seamlessly integrated into our lives, providing convenience and accessibility. However, rideshare services, unlike regulated commercial vehicles, still operate under traditional vehicle insurance coverage policies.
Specific actions are required in an Uber or Lyft collision to maintain safety and preserve your rights, whether you are a passenger or another driver. Data shows that ridesharing services are responsible for 25% of accidents in medium and major American cities. An experienced rideshare accident lawyer will go over the important factors involved in seeking compensation after a rideshare accident.
However, there are certain things victims must do after a rideshare accident. This blog post talks extensively about that.
Prioritize Safety and Assess Injuries
The first concern after any accident is safety. Check yourself and others involved for injuries. Shift to a safe location away from traffic. Dial 911 to report the accident.
Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not appear immediately. Only a medical professional can provide an accurate assessment of your condition. Store all medical records related to the accident safely.
Document the Accident Scene
Documentation is crucial for any accident case. If it’s safe, take photos or record videos of the accident scene, including your injuries, road conditions, vehicle damage, and other relevant details. This evidence can be vital for insurance claims and legal actions.
Exchange Information
Exchange contact and insurance information with the rideshare driver and any other drivers involved. Note the license plate numbers, names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance details. This information will be necessary for reporting the accident and filing insurance claims.
Contact the Rideshare Company
Report the accident to the rideshare company. They may have specific procedures and guidelines to follow after an accident. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident.
Contact the Police and Obtain a Police Report
You must report the accident to the police. It’s essential to have an official record of the incident. Obtain a copy of the police report. This is helpful for insurance claims and legal purposes.
Notify Your Insurance Company
You have to inform your insurance company about the accident. Do this as soon as possible. Provide them with all the necessary details and cooperate with their instructions. This step is crucial for initiating the claims process.
Consult an Attorney
If the accident resulted in significant injuries or damages, consider consulting an attorney experienced in rideshare accidents. An attorney can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the claims or legal proceedings.
Preserve Evidence
Keep copies of medical records, bills, repair estimates, and any other relevant documents related to the accident. These documents will be crucial when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal action.
Follow Up on Medical Treatment
Adhere to prescribed medical treatment and attend follow-up appointments. Proper documentation of your injuries and treatments is essential for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
These are the fundamentals of what to do after a rideshare accident. While every case can be somewhat different, it’s important to remember that you have rights regardless of the situation.
In order to properly represent your story, document any details, such as photographs of the scene or conversations with other witnesses, that may help in court. Don’t forget to talk to the police and request a police report, as it is important when filing an insurance claim or criminal report against the driver who may be at fault.
If all goes well, you will eventually receive compensation for medical bills and car damages incurred. Ultimately, hiring a skilled rideshare attorney can help ensure that your rights are upheld.
So, if you feel helpless or are left with more questions than answers after an incident involving a rideshare company, don’t hesitate to reach out to a reputable local rideshare accident lawyer today and take charge of your situation!
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