Rideshares have transformed the way we get around. They are a quick, convenient and cost-effective form of transportation. With the click of a button on our phone, a ride can be waiting for us in a matter of minutes.
Ideally, you will arrive safely at your destination, but what happens if you are in a rideshare accident? Most of us have a basic idea of what to do when we are involved in an accident with our own vehicle, but when the vehicle was being operated by a rideshare driver, the situation is different.
Immediately after the accident
However, many of the steps to take after a rideshare accident remain the same. The first thing you should always do is check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 if anyone appears injured and contact the police.
If possible, move the vehicles to a safe location. When the police arrive, make a report and keep a copy of it. Most rideshare services have a feature in their app to report an accident, so report it there, as well.
Exchange contact, license and insurance information with everyone else involved in the accident, including witnesses.
Document the accident with photographs of your injuries and the damaged vehicle. Take pictures from several different angles to thoroughly document the injuries and damage. Remain calm at the accident scene and do not place blame on anyone.
Talking with the insurance companies
Review the rideshare company’s policies carefully. Learn the type of insurance that applied to your rideshare accident. Typically, once you accepted the ride, the rideshare services insurance applied. If the app was on but the ride was not accepted yet, limited liability insurance may apply.
After the accident, avoid discussing it with any insurance company that tries to contact you or anyone from the rideshare company. Their priority is to avoid or minimize their own fault in the accident. It is best to speak with a professional first to learn your options.
You should contact your own insurance company and report the accident. Have a thorough medical examination, even if you believe you do not have any injuries. Some injuries show up later.
Keep detailed records of all expenses involved with the accident. Remember that this includes more than medical bills.
Many people experience extreme mental and emotional suffering after a car accident or develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Therapy or counseling is another accident-related expense that you should document.
Know that you have a right to fair compensation
You will likely eventually be offered a proposed settlement from the rideshare company’s insurance. Before accepting an offer, make sure it is fair and compensates you for all your costs, including any future medical expenses.
Although you are under no obligation to negotiate, it is generally better to not accept the first offer from the rideshare company’s insurance, unless you are certain that it fairly compensates you for your injuries.
Just as with any other form of public transportation, rideshare companies have a legal duty to make sure their drivers operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner. When they drive negligently and cause an accident, you have a right to receive compensation for your injuries.