Uber/Lyft accidents are more common than you might think, and they can be fatal or cause severe injuries. Since many people don’t know much about Uber/Lyft injury claims, they often don’t take the right steps required to protect their legal rights to compensation.
Unfortunately, they end up with injuries that affect how they live or work, causing a lot of grief to them, their families, and friends. Additionally, most rideshare corporations and insurance companies have tricks they use to avoid liability or settle your lawsuit for small amounts.
Luckily, you can overcome these unfair practices by knowing what to do when you’re involved in an Uber/Lyft accident.
Here are five things you should do after an Uber/Lyft accident.
1. Call the local authorities
After an Uber/Lyft accident, call 911 or the local enforcement division and have them come to the location of the accident. This ensures any emergency care is provided to victims, and your accident is documented, making it valid.
However, make sure you get a copy of the police report as it will help you prove your accident when filing an auto accident claim.
2. Seek medical attention
One of the biggest mistakes people make after an Uber/Lyft accident is not seeking medical attention. While you may assume your injuries are minor, they may become severe with time and negatively impact your life.
Therefore, you should visit a doctor for an evaluation to ensure you haven’t sustained any injuries from your accident. Besides, by seeking medical treatment, you’ll have the necessary documentation required to file your claim.
Remember, most insurance companies can argue that the accident wasn’t as serious as you presume because you didn’t seek medical care. Hence, this is a vital step in receiving the compensation you deserve.
3. Collect information
If you’re not badly injured, try to gather as much information as you can. This includes the insurance and contact information of all parties involved, driver’s licenses, and license plate numbers. You should also speak to witnesses who may have seen what happened and get their contact information, including addresses and phone numbers.
Additionally, take photos of the scene, visible injuries, and any damage to vehicles at all angles. This ensures the person at-fault can be held liable for your injuries as you’ll have all the evidence needed. But, try and take photos as soon as possible as some insurance companies can have cars destroyed or impounded, making your case challenging.
4. Don’t contact Uber/Lyft or any insurance company
Most insurance companies, even your own, don’t have the best interests of the victims in mind. Since they are a business, their goal is to make profits by collecting premiums and not paying claims. Hence, if you contact your insurance adjuster after an Uber/Lyft accident, you may say something that might lower the value of your case, reducing your compensation.
Your insurance adjuster can also make you admit fault, which only jeopardizes your case. Instead, speak to a personal injury lawyer before contacting your insurance company.
5. Speak to a lawyer
Given the unique nature of Uber/Lyft accidents, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is your best bet at receiving your compensation. Lawyers have your interests in mind and can deal with your insurance adjusters so that you can focus on your recovery.
Besides, a personal injury lawyer understands the jargon insurance companies use and can help you understand your Uber/Lyft accident liability and coverage.
Need an experienced attorney?
At Guy Levy Law, we have experience in Uber/Lyft accidents and can provide you with the legal representation you need to receive your full injury compensation. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
