Over the last decade and a half, rideshare apps have quickly surfaced as one of the most convenient ways to get from one place to another without driving yourself. Though most Uber and Lyft rides are completed without any issues, just like any other vehicle on the road, there is always the chance of an accident. So, if you were recently involved in a rideshare crash, you may be wondering, What should I do if my car was hit by an Uber or Lyft driver?
Unfortunately, getting compensation from a collision with a rideshare vehicle could be challenging. It is always a good idea to seek professional legal counsel if you have been hit by an Uber driver or a driver with any other rideshare company. Here are some suggestions from the team at O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble, PLLC on what to do to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Things to Know About Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft have the same basic business model in that they both use a mobile app to match riders with drivers in the area. The riders can choose where they want to be picked up and dropped off. Rates are confirmed at the same time as the ride, and payment is made through the account attached to the app, so drivers do not have to handle cash or credit card payments.
Drivers are classified as independent contractors rather than employees, do not have a set work schedule, and use their own vehicles to provide rides. This classification can impact your claim because it may change who is liable for the accident.
What Should I Do If My Car Was Hit by an Uber or Lyft Driver?
If you get hit by a Lyft driver or other rideshare driver, many of the steps you should take are similar to those you would take in any other vehicle accident, with a few changes. Before we go into things you should consider, it is worth stating that if you have a major injury, the very first thing someone must do is call 911. Everything else can wait until later. That being said, let’s look at some additional steps you can take in the aftermath of a crash that can help you down the road.
Get Yourself to Safety
If you are physically able and your vehicle is drivable, try to pull over to the side of the road and get out of traffic. If your car is not drivable, but you are mobile, turn on the hazard lights, safely exit the vehicle, and get to the side of the road. Staying in the vehicle can be hazardous if other drivers do not slow down soon enough to see that your car is not moving. If you are seriously injured and moving is questionable, remain in the vehicle until medical professionals arrive.
Contact Local Law Enforcement
Even if you do not think the accident was significant, you should call 911 so local law enforcement can create an accident report. An official report can be an important piece of evidence to have when you file your claim.
Obtain Driver Information
It is important to get as much information about the driver as possible, including their name, contact information, car identification information such as make, model, and license plate, as well as which company they work for. You should also obtain their personal insurance information.
Take Photos
You can use your smartphone to take photos of the scene of the accident as well as up-close photos of the damage. These can be used to help prove the cause of the crash and where the impact occurred during the claims process.
Do Not Admit Fault
You will likely speak to many people immediately after the accident and in the following days. It would be best if you didn’t imply or directly admit fault. Certainly, tell the truth, but be careful not to take the blame for the accident or anything you did not do. If you have to file a lawsuit to receive damages, the opposing side can use your statements against you.
Receive Medical Attention
Even if you do not feel like you sustained a major injury, small aches can turn out to be significant and long-lasting as the adrenaline wears off. You may not need emergency care, but you should still have a medical professional evaluate you as soon as reasonably possible. Keep a detailed record of all related medical expenses.
Contact an Attorney
You deserve to be compensated for your injuries either by the driver of the vehicle or the rideshare company. The award-winning attorneys at O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble, PLLC, can help. We are here to make sure you do not settle for less than what you are entitled to. We have recovered millions for clients who were injured in vehicle accidents and understand how to work with Uber, Lyft, other rideshare companies, and their drivers to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us to schedule your free case consultation.