When you’re injured in a typical car accident, you know you need to call the police and your insurance organization to begin the claims process, but what do you do when you aren’t the one driving the car? Rideshare accidents introduce a whole new level of complexity as you’re now dealing with a corporation and its insurance policies. Below, we discuss what to do if your Uber crashes so you know when to consult a rideshare accident lawyer for your injuries.
Understanding Liability in Uber Accidents
Before diving into what steps to take after an Uber accident, let’s go over the basics of how liability works in these types of situations. You need to understand liability so you’re protected from drivers attempting to talk you out of not calling the police.
In the majority of ridesharing accidents, the company’s insurance policy will be on the hook when the driver causes the accident. If the app was on and the driver was transporting you when they caused the accident, Uber’s insurance policy will usually cover the damages up to its maximum limits.
If the driver caused the accident when the app wasn’t running or without a passenger, they usually must use their own policy. If another driver was at fault for the accident, the other driver’s insurer usually must cover the damages. In many situations, you might have to deal with partial liability claims where multiple insurers battle over negligence details, liability percentages, and settlement awards, but this all depends on the accident’s details.
Contact our team today so we can fight to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Steps To Take After a Rideshare Accident
Here’s what to do if your Uber crashes:
1. Call 911 or Local Authorities
First, you must call 911 or your local police line. Call 911 for any immediate medical needs. If your rideshare driver or any other party tries to talk you out of calling the police, you must ignore their requests, as you’re required to call the police for any type of accident that causes property damage or injuries.
If you’re unsure of the severity of your injury, you can call paramedics for an on-site evaluation. If you feel OK, call local authorities, then go to the doctor as soon as possible for a full check-up.
2. Screenshot Your Ride
You need to take a screenshot of the live ride details in your Uber app as soon as possible before the driver closes out the ride. Even if they close out the ride, you should be able to take a screenshot of the ride history, showing the time and date and its correspondence with your accident.
This screenshot will serve as valuable accident documentation, proving that the Uber driver was using the app during your accident, which can help with rideshare insurance coverage. If they weren’t using the app, you’ll still need to take a screenshot proving that your ride never began.
3. Request a Police Report
One of the main missteps people make when questioning what to do if your Uber crashes is failing to file a police report. When police arrive on scene, ensure they complete their report detailing the accident scene. The police report will aid in liability determination, serving as key evidence in your compensation claim.
You can review all items on the police report to ensure the details match up with your memory. We recommend requesting a copy for your own purposes so you have easy access to the contact information of all involved parties.
4. Gather Evidence
If you are not severely injured, we recommend collecting evidence before leaving the accident scene. Evidence includes taking photos of the following:
- Your injuries
- Damages on the rideshare vehicle you rode in
- Damages to any other vehicles
- Road conditions (i.e., traffic lights, speed limit signs, stop signs, potholes, etc.)
- Weather conditions
If any witnesses saw the accident, you can request statements from them or ask for their contact details. Your rideshare attorney can help you gather more evidence later on, such as traffic camera footage, professional investigator statements, Electronic Control Unit records, and more.
5. Notify Uber
Once safely home from your accident, you should notify Uber to begin the claims process. Uber may be aware as the rideshare driver might have already reported the accident. Once you notify Uber, you can begin seeking compensation for your medical expenses and other losses.
6. Follow Medical Treatment Recommendations
Moving forward, you must follow all treatment recommendations from your medical providers. Failing to attend required treatments can compromise your ability to seek compensation, as insurers may argue that you contributed to your injuries.
Be sure to acquire a full diagnosis outlining your prognosis and future treatment needs. Keep documentation of all appointments you attend, hospitalization bills, scans, prescription medications, medical devices, transportation to or from appointments, and anything else relating to your injury.
7. Navigate Insurance Conversations Carefully
Uber’s insurance company will likely reach out to you to ask you more questions about the accident. You must navigate these questions carefully, as the insurance company will typically attempt to assume minimal liability. The situation can become especially complex in scenarios involving uninsured motorist coverage or third-party liability, so you typically shouldn’t communicate with insurers until you’ve consulted a personal injury attorney.
8. Speak to a Rideshare Attorney as Soon as Possible
We recommend consulting a rideshare attorney as soon as possible to discuss your claim and options. Your attorney can negotiate with insurers on your behalf, represent your rights, and help you seek maximum compensation for your losses. They’ll find the liable party, gather evidence to prove negligence, and even fight for your rights in court when necessary.
Were You Injured in an Uber Accident? Speak With an Attorney Today
Now that we’ve answered what to do if your Uber crashes, you know you need legal representation as soon as possible. If you need help finding the right lawyer, you’ve come to the right place.
At Accident Hotline, we connect accident victims with experienced attorneys. Call us today at (888) 327-2539 to schedule a free consultation with a rideshare attorney.
For a free consultation, call 888-340-7454
