What Should I Do If I’m Injured in a Rideshare Accident?

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to go around the city at an affordable price. While the practicality is undeniable, rideshare services do come with certain risks. It is estimated that rideshare accidents account for nearly a 3% increase in traffic fatalities each year. Thankfully, the Gaffney rideshare accident lawyers at Parker & Bain, LLC are here to discuss what you should do if you find yourself a victim of a crash.

Call 911

Prioritizing your health after an accident is essential, which starts with calling for medical assistance. If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, you may be in utter shock. With adrenaline pumping, you may not feel pain, making you unaware of the severity of your injuries. If anyone is injured or there are any fatalities, call 911 immediately. The paramedics who are dispatched will assess your injuries and transport you to the hospital for further treatment. Failing to get a medical evaluation can negatively impact your claim, so you must get checked out after the crash.

Call the Police

South Carolina law requires you to call the police following a car accident if anyone is injured, dies, if there is more than $1,000 in property damage, or if you are involved in a hit-and-run. Our legal team recommends contacting the police after any rideshare accident to obtain a collision report. This can be extremely helpful if your rideshare driver later denies liability, with the collision report allowing you to file an insurance claim to recover damages.

Take Photos of the Scene

If you can, photograph the accident scene, your injuries, damaged vehicles, and surrounding intersections or streets. Take pictures with and without flash. Capture close-ups for detail and wide shots for context.

Get the Names of Eyewitnesses

If there are bystanders, ask if they saw the accident. Get their names and phone numbers. An eyewitness’s impartial statement can help establish liability. If someone recorded the accident, your attorney can help obtain the video for your claim.

Take Screenshots from the Uber or Lyft App

SC Code §58-23-1625 states that when drivers are logged into a rideshare app or on a pre-arranged ride, personal auto insurance does not apply; the rideshare company’s insurance does. Screenshots from your trip show ride details, times, and route. Lyft, Uber, or other rideshare services may request these to confirm the accident occurred during your ride. Their insurance offers higher coverage limits than personal auto policies.

Contact a Gaffney Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Recovering losses after a rideshare accident can be challenging. A rideshare lawyer helps you gather evidence and file your claim. Securing maximum compensation covers medical bills and lost wages, easing recovery. You deserve reimbursement for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. A lawyer helps you identify all eligible damages and strengthens your claim.

Gaffney Rideshare Accident Attorneys Advocate for You

Rideshare services are popular, but accidents happen. These accidents can bring large medical bills, lost wages, and stress. If you have been in a rideshare accident, contact Parker & Bain today for a confidential consultation. Contact us online or call (864) 252-2650.