What Happens If Your Uber Crashes?
Ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are more popular than ever and have become a cost-effective and convenient way of reaching your destination without having to worry about parking or having a drink while you’re out. But what happens if what you thought was going to be a safer and more convenient option goes the other way? Here’s what to do if you get in a car accident in a ridesharing service:
- Call the Authorities then the Ridesharing Company
Call law enforcement immediately – don’t wait for someone else to do it. No matter if your driver was at fault or if there was a third party involved, call the authorities right away. After that, contact the ridesharing company to report the incident. Give all the details and remain objective, but don’t agree to anything without legal counsel present.
You should also have assessed your physical condition. Even if it was only a minor fender bender, seek medical assistance as you will need a medical report when filing a personal injury case. You may not experience the effects of the impact right away, so be sure to monitor your health in the upcoming days.
- Document Everything
Take pictures and video, gather any evidence that you can and take notes of every detail of the accident, including your driver’s attitude and behavior. Be sure to get their contact information, license plate number and insurance company info. If there is anyone else involved in the accident, get all of their details as well and make sure no one leaves the scene. While you wait, be sure to check out what establishments are nearby. Gas stations, banks and convenience stores are some of the businesses that are nearly guaranteed to have surveillance cameras. Also, find any potential witnesses, record their stories and get their contact details. This will be very important for use as evidence in your case.
- Get Help
Seek the professional guidance of a car accident lawyer / personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft operate using individuals utilizing their private vehicles as transportation and do not categorize their drivers as employees, therefore commercial insurance coverage may not be provided. It is imperative that you have legal representation that will be able to sort out the case and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
