Did you know that there has been about a 2-3% increase in rideshare accident fatalities since 2011?

Millions of Americans prefer using rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft daily because of their convenience and affordability. But with more Uber and Lyft vehicles added to traffic, the likelihood of rideshare accidents occurring increases.

Getting in a rideshare wreck may lead to serious damages and injuries. To ensure you get proper compensation, below are things you should do to help strengthen your personal injury claim.

Check for Injuries and Call 911

You should check for any injuries you may have right after the car accident. Take note if you feel any pain or dizziness. If you can move, check to see if the other people involved in the have injuries as well. Don’t try to move any unconscious victims as it may worsen their injuries.

After checking for injuries, call 911. Ensure you remain at the scene of the accident until the police arrive. While you wait for them, avoid speculating and saying too much.

The police will record details about the rideshare accident, talk to witnesses, and write a report. This report can help you if you decide to file a personal injury claim. You can get a copy of the report from them to help you make a successful claim.

Seek Immediate Medical Care

Ensure you get medical attention even though you feel fine. While some vehicle accident injuries are obvious, others may be difficult to notice especially due to shock and adrenaline rush. This is why you should never skip medical treatment at the scene.

Tell the paramedics about every symptom you are experiencing, including dizziness, headaches, or blurry vision. If they want to take you to the hospital, go with them.

In case you weren’t taken directly to the hospital from the scene, make sure you seek further medical attention sooner. This will also help you with your rideshare accident claim.

Gather Evidence

Evidence is important if you want to file a lawsuit. While police will collect some evidence, it may not be enough. You can start by getting the ID and insurance information of the Uber or Lyft drivers involved in the accident.

Write down their full names and contact information. In case they don’t cooperate, you can take notes on their appearance and presumed age.

Make sure you take photos and videos of the Uber accident scene as it can prove the damage, injuries, and other facts of the case. Consider taking snapshots of your injuries, the cars involved in the accident, skid marks, and other property damage.

Also, talk to witnesses and find out if they saw anything that may help your Lyft accident case.

File an Accident Report with the Rideshare Company

Rideshare companies have made it easy for people to notify them of accidents involving their drivers. If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, you can get in touch with Uber or Lyft to report the accident through the app. You can also call the company directly.

Ensure you take note of any information you receive from the company, like a claim number. Once you report the accident, the rideshare company will start an internal investigation.

Notify the Insurance Company

It’s a good idea to contact your insurance company and tell them about the accident. Ensure you adhere to the notification deadlines unless you want your injury claim to be refuted. The following are reasons why you should contact your insurance:

• Depending on your insurance coverage, they can help you get immediate medical care
• If your car was involved, they can help you obtain speedy car repairs
• If the Uber/Lyft driver has little or no insurance, you can file a claim for uninsured or underinsured driver coverage
• It can help prevent fraudulent claims
• Your insurer can defend you against a lawsuit in case the other party files a claim against you

Don’t Speak with Uber/Lyft/the Driver’s Insurance Company

Uber, Lyft, or the driver’s insurance provider may try to contact you. Although you may feel vulnerable and need help dealing with your injuries as well as damages, don’t talk to them or give them any recorded statements.

They may try to convince you that they are on your side. But they are not. They may try to use your statement against you to ensure you get less compensation or lose your case. Let your rideshare accident lawyer handle all communications with the insurance companies on your behalf.

Beware of the Statute of Limitations

Want to file a personal injury claim after a rideshare accident?

You have to do it before the stated deadline. Each state has a Statute of Limitations for taking legal action in a vehicle accident claim. The deadline period usually starts to run on the day of the accident. In California, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident.

If the deadline reaches before you make your claim, you’ll lose your chance of recovering compensation.

Make sure you take timely action when filing a claim. It will not only help protect your claim but it’ll also ensure your evidence isn’t distorted.

Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Accidents can be grueling. While you are still recovering, you can hire a rideshare attorney to help you with your case.

From filing a lawsuit on time to dealing with insurance companies, a rideshare accident attorney can make pursuing your claim hassle-free. They can also help you collect evidence, file the necessary documentation, and create comprehensive demands for a claim settlement.

They will also defend you in court to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Ensure you hire a lawyer that’s interested in your case and protects your rights. They should also keep you updated about any progress in the case.

Contact Our Qualified Rideshare Accident Attorney

Got injured in a rideshare accident? Following the aforementioned tips can help you file a successful claim.

At Rockview Accident Lawyers, we offer hands-on legal representation to help you recover maximum compensation for your injuries and damages. Feel free to contact us to book a consultation.