Why You Need to Document Your Rideshare Accident

Rideshare accidents are like any other motor vehicle crash. Injured victims should document the crash because determining who is at fault is critical. Those involved in a crash also need to call the police. Unfortunately, you can’t rely on the Uber or Lyft driver to do any of this. Instead, take a few simple steps to build a case, and then reach out to Hoy Law for additional help.

Your Rideshare Driver Has an Incentive to Hide Accidents

Injured victims often expect their driver to call the police and report the accident to the rideshare company. But some drivers might try to hide that the accident happened. After all, they might fear that Uber or Lyft won’t let them drive any more. This concern is especially acute if your driver is to blame for the crash.

Suppose your driver was speeding when they rear-ended a car in front of them. Not only are you injured, but another motorist is probably hurt. Your Uber or Lyft driver might beg you not to report the crash.

However, you have a strong reason to document the accident and report it. Without a crash report, you are unlikely to obtain compensation. Uber and Lyft drivers have insurance to pay compensation when their passengers are hurt, even when your rideshare driver is to blame.

Remember the following:

• You should try to take pictures of the cars involved. Use your phone. Uber instructs their drivers to take pictures of all four sides, but you can do this as well, provided you can move around.
• Get information from the other driver involved in the crash. This person’s insurance company might play a role in your accident claim. You should get their name and insurance details.
• Call the police to report the crash. If your driver doesn’t immediately call, then use your phone to report the crash.
• Talk with any witnesses about what they saw. Try to get their name and one method of contact (like email).
• Visit the hospital when you are done at the accident scene. Early diagnosis of injuries is critical to getting well, but also to document that the accident caused your pain.

In extreme cases, a driver might offer you cash to not report the accident. You should avoid accepting any offer of that sort. That driver is a danger to the public, and the rideshare company should know about them.

Call to Speak with a Sioux Falls Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Rideshare drivers in South Dakota should have at least $1 million in insurance coverage to pay a settlement when a passenger is injured in a crash. Despite the generous insurance, many injured passengers discover they must fight tooth and nail to get fair compensation. Hoy Law is here to help.

Our firm knows how to negotiate with rideshare company insurers. We believe that our clients deserve the highest level of service. You can learn more about how we can help by scheduling a free consultation with a Sioux Falls rideshare accident lawyer at our office.

Source:

uber.com/us/en/safety/what-to-do-in-a-crash/