What Happens Following a Rideshare Accident?

Being involved in an accident can be a terrifying experience. As a passenger in a collision, you may feel anxiety and anger immediately after the incident. To protect your rights following a rideshare accident, it’s crucial to take the following steps:

1. Check for injuries: The first priority after an accident is to ensure everyone’s safety. If there are any life-threatening injuries, immediately contact 911 for emergency assistance.
2. Gather information: Similar to any regular accident, it’s important to exchange information with all involved drivers, including your Uber or Lyft driver. Take note of each driver’s name, phone number, and license plate number. Additionally, collect contact information from any witnesses present.
3. Take pictures: Photographs serve as vital evidence following a motor vehicle accident. In the case of a rideshare accident, multiple insurance companies may be involved, each aiming to manipulate data in their favor. Capture evidence of vehicle damage, property damage, road signs, skid marks, license plates, and other drivers involved, if possible.

Contact an attorney: Rideshare accidents present unique legal considerations when determining liability and seeking compensation. An experienced attorney can guide you through the claims process and ensure your rights are protected.

How a Rideshare Attorney in Nevada Can Assist You

If you’ve never been in a motor vehicle accident, you might question the need for an attorney. While there are cases where a personal injury attorney may not be necessary, our team at Gladiator Injury Law believes that in most instances, an experienced attorney can simplify the process and help you secure a larger settlement. Here are a few advantages of hiring a personal injury lawyer after a rideshare accident:

1. Handling the paperwork: Following an accident, you may not have the time or energy to fill out paperwork, gather evidence, and process a claim. Our team at Gladiator Injury Law, will handle these tasks on your behalf, thoroughly examining the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and managing necessary paperwork.
2. Access to better medical care: A significant concern after an accident is the financial burden of medical bills. Many individuals lack the resources to cover unexpected medical expenses. A personal injury attorney can explain your options and potentially arrange a letter of protection to defer payment until your case concludes.
3. Advocating for fair compensation: Insurance companies often try to lowball claimants who don’t have legal representation. These companies rely on your limited knowledge of your rights and the urgency to settle, offering less than you deserve. A personal injury attorney will fight on your behalf to ensure you receive adequate compensation.
4. Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance companies often manipulate facts and pressure injured parties into accepting inadequate settlements. Hiring an attorney sends a clear message to insurance companies that you are serious about your claim.

The question of who bears financial responsibility in a rideshare accident has a complex answer: it depends. Insurance companies consider several factors when determining liability in these cases. Unlike taxi cabs, Uber and Lyft drivers are not considered common carriers, meaning they aren’t held to the same standards and financial liabilities. The following factors come into play:

1. Was the rideshare driver at fault?
2. Did the driver have a passenger at the time of the accident?

3. Was the driver logged into the rideshare app?

If a driver other than the rideshare driver is at fault, that driver’s personal insurance will primarily provide financial compensation. Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured insurance may come into play if the other driver’s insurance coverage is insufficient. If the rideshare driver is at fault but not logged into the app at the time of the accident, their personal insurance will cover the incident. However, if the rideshare driver is at fault, logged into the app, and has a passenger (or is waiting for one), the rideshare company’s insurance will be involved.

Common Damages in Rideshare Accidents

Numerous factors contribute to the final settlement amount in a personal injury case. These include the severity of your injuries, the party at fault, and other circumstances surrounding your case. While rideshare accident settlements vary, common damages sought in such cases include:

1. Medical expenses
2. Lost wages, including potential future earnings
3. Pain and suffering
4. Loss of companionship

Remember, consulting a knowledgeable rideshare accident attorney can provide valuable guidance and support throughout your legal journey, ensuring you pursue the compensation you deserve.