Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become incredibly popular in recent years. 24% of Americans aged 50+ have tried a rideshare service, and 61% of people are familiar with Lyft and Uber. Given rideshares’ popularity, the industry is expected to generate around $54 billion annually by 2027.
However, although 99.9% of rideshares are uneventful, their rise in popularity has also led to more accidents involving rideshare vehicles, with 20 fatalities recorded between 2019 and 2020. If you are a passenger or driver involved in an accident with a rideshare car, there are several important steps you should take.
Assess the Situation and Call for Help
First, check to make sure all passengers are okay. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s best to have medical personnel examine everyone involved. Alert the rideshare driver and follow their safety procedures. If the accident is blocking traffic, make sure you and the driver turn on hazard lights and set up road flares or triangles to warn other drivers. Contact the police so a report can be filed.
Exchange Information
You’ll want to gather information from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver. Get their name, contact details, insurance information, and driver’s license number. Ask witnesses for their contact information as well. Take photos of license plates, car damage, injuries, and the accident scene. Having this documentation can help protect you if questions arise later.
Report the Auto Accident
Report the accident to the rideshare company as soon as possible. Uber and Lyft have 24-hour safety hotlines to call after an accident. Provide them with details like time, location, and damage incurred. The rideshare insurer will want a statement from you explaining what happened. Cooperate fully with any investigation. Your insurance company should also be notified about the accident.
Get Medical Attention
Even if you don’t have obvious injuries, you should still get examined by a doctor. Motor vehicle accidents cause 20.4% of the 2.5 million ER visits related to TBIs. Uber and Lyft provide limited injury protection, but your own health insurance will also help cover medical bills. Save all paperwork related to medical treatment, missed work, and other accident-related expenses.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney
It’s wise to find a car accident lawyer after a rideshare accident. There are complex legal issues regarding who pays for injuries and damages. An attorney can help determine if the rideshare driver, their insurance, your insurance, or another party is financially responsible. They’ll negotiate a fair settlement and represent your best interests. Attorney fees often come out of any settlement you receive.
Cooperate with the Insurance Investigation
Both your insurer and the rideshare company’s insurer will investigate the accident. Be truthful in answering their questions. Provide documentation they request promptly. If you make a claim on your policy, you may have to submit to an examination under oath. Have your attorney assist you during any parts of the insurance investigation process.
Following these steps can make the aftermath of rideshare accidents easier to navigate. Report, document, and cooperate fully to receive fair compensation for your injuries and vehicle damage. Retaining legal counsel protects you if the insurance companies don’t fully cover your losses.
