Rideshare apps, such as Uber and Lyft, have made getting around easier than ever, but even the most cautious drivers can be involved in an accident. At Thomas, Conrad & Conrad, we understand the complicated, multifaceted aspects of these types of cases. Knowing what to do after a rideshare crash can increase your chances of recovering maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. Our rideshare accident attorneys offer valuable advice on steps to take after a collision involving Uber, Lyft, or another transportation service.
What To Do Immediately Following A Rideshare Accident
After any motor vehicle accident, your first priority should be to seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Some injuries don’t appear right away, so it’s best to get checked out by a health care professional as soon as you can. Call 9-1-1 and wait for police to arrive. Ask the driver for their full name, contact details, and insurance information. Take photos of the scene and your injuries, and talk to any witnesses who may have seen how the accident happened.
If you’re a passenger who’s been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, you can report it through the app. If you’re another driver who was involved in the accident, make sure to jot down the car’s license plate and get the driver’s name, driver’s license number, and contact information before you call the rideshare company. If possible, get a copy of the police report before you leave the scene.
Whether you’re a passenger or another party who was injured in the accident, make sure to contact a rideshare accident attorney to discuss your case before giving a statement, signing anything, or accepting a settlement from any insurance company, even your own.
Recovering Compensation As A Passenger In A Rideshare Accident
Uber and Lyft both carry liability policies that cover damages up to $1 million. If you’ve suffered injury as a passenger while your rideshare driver was on the clock, you should be entitled to collect damages from the rideshare company. If you’re severely injured and need to recover damages above and beyond $1 million, filing a lawsuit against the rideshare driver may be necessary as well. However, if the driver was not officially logged in and working, their own auto insurance would most likely cover your damages, not the Uber or Lyft policy.
If another motorist was responsible for your injuries, you may pursue compensation from their insurance company. Depending on the specific situation, multiple parties may be liable for your injuries. Dealing with so many different insurance companies can be overwhelming and confusing, so it’s a good idea to contact a rideshare accident lawyer who can help you sort it out and pursue all possible avenues of compensation.
If You’re Hurt As A Non-Passenger In A Rideshare Accident
Determining liability can also be convoluted if you’re another motorist, vehicle occupant, pedestrian, or bicyclist who was injured in an accident caused by a rideshare driver. Again, if the rideshare driver was working and had a passenger when the accident occurred, damages would most likely be covered by the company’s insurance policy. If the driver was off the clock, you’ll have to file a claim with the driver’s own car insurance company to seek compensation. You may also be able to recover compensation through your own auto insurance policy.
How A Rideshare Accident Attorney Can Help
Dealing with one insurance company can be challenging, let alone seeking compensation from two or more. If multiple insurance companies are involved, they may even work together to try to minimize or deny your claim. Seeking legal representation you can trust ensures that your rights and interests are protected and increases your chances of recovering the maximum compensation you need and deserve.
When you’re hurt and trying to heal, filing paperwork and negotiating with insurance companies is often stressful and frustrating. A rideshare accident lawyer can investigate the facts of your claim and handle all negotiations with insurance companies so you don’t have to worry about fighting to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Contact A Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Our team at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad Law Offices is dedicated to helping injured victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. Contact us online or call 610-867-2900 to schedule a free consultation with a rideshare accident attorney at one of our convenient locations in Bath, Allentown, or Topton, Pennsylvania.