Hurt In A Rideshare Accident?
Ridesharing car services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the way we get around. However, just like any other mode of transportation, there are risks involved.
Getting in an accident while riding in a Lyft or Uber can be a stressful situation. At Bedell & Stripto in New Jersey, we are dedicated to being strong advocates for people who were injured in motor vehicle accidents. We help accident victims take control of their situation and work to get the compensation they deserve.
If you are injured in a Lyft or Uber accident, we want to help you recover damages to get your life back on track, whether you have piles of medical bills, lost wages or pain and suffering. Our attorneys will work day in and day out pursuing the results you need in your case. They have a strong record of proven outcomes in high-stakes injury matters.
What To Do Immediately After A Rideshare Accident
In the aftermath of a rideshare accident, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Call 911
- Check for injuries
- Get the information of everyone involved
- Get a medical evaluation
- Contact a lawyer to communicate with insurance companies on your behalf.
What About After The Accident?
After the accident is when the situation can get murky. You should never get pressured or bullied into accepting a settlement. It is important to remember that insurance companies are not always looking out for your best interests, so you want to have an attorney by your side who will.
We will take the time to fully investigate the car accident and your injuries, and make sure your rights are represented and your voice is heard. Our number one priority is working toward an agreement that we believe is fair and is in your best interests.
The Nuanced World Of Rideshare Auto Insurance
If you get in an accident while in an Uber or Lyft, there is an accident policy in place. Here are the basics:
- Coverage limits: Uber and Lyft insures their drivers and passengers for up to $1 million dollars for medical coverage and property damage and up to $50,000 per personal injury claim.
- The driver’s coverage: If the driver of the rideshare has their own insurance (as they should, since it’s required by law), you may have to go through their insurance agency if Uber or Lyft decides not to cover the accident. You may also have a claim against their insurance for damages beyond what Uber or Lyft’s policy limits.
- Protecting yours rights: After your accident, Uber or Lyft will reach out to talk with you. It’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible so you don’t end up jeopardizing important rights.
A lot of this is dependent on how Uber or Lyft decide to handle your claim, which is why you need a strong lawyer by your side to advocate for you in your time of need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents often involve unique insurance and liability questions. Here are answers to some of the issues people ask about most after an Uber or Lyft accident.
What should I do if a rideshare vehicle hits my car?
Your first priority should be to report the accident, seek medical attention if needed and exchange information with everyone involved. It is also important to determine whether the rideshare driver was actively using the app at the time of the crash.
If the driver was off duty and not logged into the rideshare platform, the claim will generally proceed through the driver’s personal auto insurance. If the driver was logged in, waiting for a ride request, driving to pick up a passenger or transporting a passenger, additional insurance provided by the rideshare company may apply. Taking photographs, obtaining witness information and documenting the driver’s rideshare status can help avoid disputes later in the claims process.
What should I do if I am a passenger in a rideshare vehicle that is involved in an accident?
As a passenger, your immediate focus should be on your health and safety. Report any injuries, call law enforcement if necessary and seek medical evaluation, even if symptoms seem minor.
You should also obtain the names, insurance information and contact details for your rideshare driver and any other drivers involved. Liability depends on who caused the collision, and more than one insurance policy may ultimately become involved. Because the rideshare driver was transporting you during the trip, the company’s insurance coverage may apply, but collecting the driver’s personal insurance information is also worthwhile in case additional coverage becomes relevant.
Will the police document that a rideshare vehicle was involved?
They should, but it is not something you should assume will happen automatically. Many rideshare vehicles are ordinary passenger cars with few or no visible markings, making it difficult for responding officers to immediately recognize that the driver was working for a rideshare company.
If you know or believe the vehicle was operating as an Uber or Lyft, tell the responding officer so that information can be included in the report whenever appropriate. If it is safe to do so, photograph any rideshare decals, window stickers or other identifying features on the vehicle. This information can help establish the driver’s status at the time of the accident and may become important when determining which insurance coverage applies.
Injured In An Uber, Lyft Or Other Rideshare Accident? We Can Help.
If you have been injured in a Lyft accident, give our Brick office or Toms River office a call at 732-348-3439 to schedule a free consultation. You can also fill out a quick online intake form.