A rideshare accident case in California has unique elements and legal complexities due to the nature of Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). If you get involved in a crash while driving for or riding in an Uber or Lyft, there are specific steps you need to take to help ensure the protection of your legal rights.
Notify Law Enforcement
If you were a driver involved in a rideshare accident, it is your responsibility to notify the police if it caused bodily injuries, deaths or at least $1,000 in property damage. If you were a rideshare passenger but noticed that no one else is calling the police, dial 911 from your own phone. Reporting even a minor accident can create important evidence that you can use for your insurance claim.
Seek Help for Injuries
Check yourself first for signs of injury, then check on others involved in the crash. Get medical care immediately, even if you think you are uninjured. You may have suffered injuries with hidden or delayed symptoms. Request an ambulance to the scene in an emergency or visit the nearest hospital. Do your best to render aid to others who have been injured, as well.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in California
Gather Information
If you can, remain at the scene of the rideshare accident to collect key information and valuable evidence. This may include:
- The rideshare driver’s full name and contact information
- A description of the rideshare vehicle, its VIN and its license plate number
- Photographs of the crash scene
- The names of any eyewitnesses and fellow passengers
- A screenshot of your trip information in the rideshare app
- Any available footage from traffic cameras or dashcams
- Your police report number
- A description of what happened in your own words
As you seek medical care for your injuries, collect evidence related to your diagnosis and treatments, as well, such as hospital bills and medical records.
Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company
Uber and Lyft both have multiple options for reporting accidents involving on-duty drivers. You can report the incident through the app, on Uber or Lyft’s website, or by calling the company’s customer service line. Do not admit fault for the accident when speaking to a rideshare company representative or their insurance provider.
File an Insurance Claim
When you’re ready to seek financial compensation for your losses after a rideshare accident in California, file an insurance claim with the correct carrier. If you were driving your own car, start by contacting your automobile insurance company.
If you were a rideshare passenger or someone outside of the vehicle, contact Uber or Lyft to file a claim. Both companies maintain $1 million liability insurance policies to cover injured victims, in addition to primary coverage offered by the rideshare driver. The amount of coverage available will depend on the phase of the ride or the driver’s on-duty status within the app at the time.
Speak With a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in California
It’s important not to accept a fast insurance settlement or sign anything sent to you by an insurance provider without speaking to a personal injury lawyer first. A Riverside rideshare accident attorney with experience handling local Uber and Lyft accident cases can give you critical information about your legal rights and recovery options in the aftermath of a crash.
You can trust an attorney to protect your best interests; unlike an insurance company or rideshare corporation, a lawyer wants to maximize your financial outcome. To discuss a specific car accident case in Riverside with a qualified and caring attorney at no cost, contact Jacoby & Meyers today.