Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to get where you need to go. If you have an accident as a passenger in one of these vehicles, however, injury compensation can become a challenge.
Follow these tips to protect your legal claim after a serious bodily injury in a rideshare accident.
Seek medical assistance
After a serious accident, get medical help right away. Brain trauma and other injuries can take time to show symptoms after a collision. Document the type of care you receive after the accident and keep track of the expense.
Call law enforcement
Your local 911 operator will send assistance to the crash site. The officer will make sure everyone gets medical help and gather evidence related to your case. He or she will interview witnesses and create an official police report. You can also take photos and video of the crash site or ask a family member or friend to help if you cannot do so. You should also gather witness contact information in case you need to ask them to make statements in court.
File a claim
Because rideshare drivers fall into the category of independent contractors, you must seek compensation for your injuries directly through your Uber or Lyft driver’s auto insurance company. If a third party caused the accident, you can also file a claim with his or her insurance company.
When the insurance company does not fully cover the costs of your accident, you can also file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. In some cases, you may be able to file a direct claim with the rideshare company.
