What are the Legal Steps After a Rideshare Accident in the USA

The number of ridesharing accidents has increased all over the USA. We see a number of accidents caused due to rideshare services. 

Rideshare accidents are worse than other ones because it’s difficult to determine who will pay for the losses. In routine accidents, the insurance of the person at fault is liable for compensation. 

However, if you wish to get compensated because you were a victim of a ridesharing accident, then you need to follow some legal steps. Through proper legal consultation, you can get compensation for your losses. To navigate the complex legal process, a rideshare accident lawyer steps in. 

What Does a Rideshare Accident Consitutes in the USA

Identifying accidents in a rideshare app is crucial for those who have been in one.

• Involvement of a Rideshare Vehicle

In a rideshare accident, at least one car will be from a service like Uber or Lyft. The rideshare driver’s car or the other driver’s car in the accident can be the accident vehicle.

• Occurrence During a Rideshare Trip

The accident occurred while the rideshare driver worked for the company. The driver needs to be active on the platform. This covers the time from accepting a trip to dropping off the passenger.

• Driver’s Status on the Rideshare App

The rideshare driver needs to actively use the rideshare app at the time of the accident. The accident differs if the driver lacks an active account or the vehicle is private.

• Passenger Presence

At the time of the accident, having an Uber/Lyft passenger in the car is an important detail. If a passenger is in the car during an accident, it connects the event to the car-sharing service.

• Enroute to Pickup or Drop-off

• Accidents count as rideshare even if the rideshare driver has no fare yet.

• Official Confirmation by Rideshare Company. 
• Rideshare companies often check and confirm if a driver caused the issue. The company saying the incident happened can make it a rideshare accident.

• Insurance Considerations

When a rideshare driver is working, the rideshare company’s insurance usually covers them. Rideshare company insurance helps when you have an accident. It shows that the rideshare was the cause.

What to Do at the Rideshare Accident Scene? 

In a rideshare accident, take immediate action to ensure safety and evidence preservation. It’s crucial for legal and insurance purposes.

• Prioritize Safety

Check for injuries. Call emergency services if medical help is needed.

Make sure the road and its surroundings stay safe after the crash. Move cars to the side to avoid more accidents and risks.

• Contact Law Enforcement

In case of an accident, call the police, who can greatly help, even if it seems minor. The police report can sometimes be helpful for insurance claims and legal matters.

• Document the Scene

It’s recommended that pictures and videos of the crash site be taken. Capture the vehicles’ positions, damages, and any traffic signs. Make sure to record the date, time, and weather conditions.

• Exchange Information

Exchange contact information with everyone who was involved. Get their name, phone number, address, and insurance details. Get the witness’s contact info from the witnesses or bystanders.

• Take Note of Rideshare Details

Get the name and phone number of the ride-hailing driver and note down which company they work for.

Recommend recording the car ride vehicle’s license plate number and make/model.

• Use the Rideshare App

If you have been the passenger, relay the accident to the company through the rideshare app. This will help them know how to react and advise them on moving forward.

• Avoid Admitting Fault

Watch out for saying anything that could be taken as a confession or an admission of guilt. When talking to others and the police, stick to the facts and avoid letting your emotions show.

• Seek Medical Attention

Whether you feel a lot of pain or not, it’s important to go to the closest hospital right after the accident. Since some injuries may not have symptoms in the beginning, it could be tough to detect them till later on.

When to Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer? 

• Serious Injuries or Fatalities

If the accident causes serious injuries or death, it’s a good idea to contact a lawyer. A lawyer helps you and makes sure you get fair payment for medical costs, lost income, and suffering.

• Disputes with Insurance Companies

A lawyer will assist you if the rideshare company’s insurer contests the claim. You will be helped with filing the claim if needed.

• Complex Liability Issues

An attorney must determine liability in rideshare accidents. A lawyer collects evidence to establish responsibility.

Rideshare Driver Uninsured or Underinsured

The lawyers will be working if the driver is uninsured or underinsured or if the driver’s insurance company cannot take up the responsibility for the damages.

How to Hire a Rideshare Accident Lawyer

• Research and Referrals

Start by looking into well-known lawyers in your area for rideshare accidents. Ask friends, family, and lawyers experienced in similar cases for recommendations.

Experience and Expertise:

Find a lawyer who has experience in rideshare accident cases. Hiring a lawyer experienced in rideshare accidents can benefit a client’s defense. They should understand the laws that apply to ridesharing companies.

• Initial Consultation

Book the first appointment with the lawyers you’d like to consider. The first appointment with the lawyers you like is coming up. You will meet them, hear their plan, and decide if you can work together.

How Can a Rideshare Accident Lawyer Help You? 

If you are having problems compensating for your losses due to rideshare services, then a rideshare accident lawyer can help you. 

• Case Evaluation

Examine your case thoroughly to find its strengths and weaknesses. When looking at your case closely, you need to examine its strong and weak points. This includes reviewing the facts, witness statements, and necessary documents.

• Legal Advice and Guidance

Provide expert and legal services that are tailored to address your particular situation. A rideshare accident lawyer can clarify your legal rights. They’ll explain available legal measures that suit your situation for compensation.

• Investigation and Evidence Gathering

Conduct a detailed examination of the accident. Gather evidence like witness statements, accident reports, photos, CCTV footage, and other records. Besides, it’s one of the grounds of liability that strengthens the case.

• Dealing with Insurance Companies

Handle all insurance claims and negotiate with insurance firms for you. Insurance companies aim to cut payouts. A good attorney can help you get fair compensation.

• Determining Liability

Investigate to determine liability in cases of disputed ownership or shared fault. In ridesharing accidents, multiple insurance policies may be involved in a crash. This raises concerns.

Takeaway 

If you know about court processes and ask an expert, you will probably make a better choice. Each step is crucial – immediate response, insurance dealings, and legal actions. They save lives.

Make sure you stay safe and take care of your health. Pay close attention to every detail and seek treatment promptly. 

Rideshare accidents can bring new challenges. Prioritize getting help from a skilled lawyer at Mokaram Law Firm. 

The skilled lawyers at Mokaram Law Firm will help you through everything. Contact us today at (281) 609-9224 for a free consultation.