Being a rideshare driver comes with a lot of perks like having a flexible schedule, independence and the ability to earn money on your own terms. It also comes with certain risks, responsibilities and challenges, especially if you’re involved in an accident. At Brazil Sweeney Law Group, we understand the unique challenges rideshare drivers face and can provide you with expert guidance and representation to make sure you get the compensation you are entitled to if you are injured while driving for a rideshare platform like Lyft or Uber.
Steps to Take After a Ride Share Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident while working for a rideshare platform, it’s important to know what steps to take. Acting quickly and correctly can not only help ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers, but it may also protect your legal and financial interests.
1. Ensure Safety & Get Help
Like any accident, your priority should be safety. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Having an official police report could be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
2. Gather Information & Document the Scene
If you are physically able, collect as much information about the accident as you can while it’s still fresh in your mind.
- Take photos of vehicles, your injuries, and the accident scene from multiple angles.
- Gather names, contact details, and insurance information from all parties involved, including witnesses.
- Provide accurate information to the police but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident.
- Note your rideshare app status. Whether you were waiting for a request, en route or with a passenger will determine which insurance applies.
- Jot down any other details regarding the accident that could be helpful including the time, location and weather conditions.
3. Inform Your Rideshare Platform
Most platforms require drivers notify them when they are in an accident. Be sure to report the accident to the rideshare platform through the app or driver support channels, carefully following instructions. Provide a clear description of the incident but again, avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident. And be sure to keep records of all communication.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important that you get checked out by a healthcare professional. Not only does this supply documentation that may be vital for your insurance claim, but it may uncover injuries that weren’t immediately apparent. It’s important that you follow all medical advice and keep records of treatments, prescriptions, and doctor visits.
5. Review Your Insurance Policies
Rideshare drivers are typically covered by a combination of personal auto insurance and the rideshare company’s commercial policy. Uber and Lyft both provide contingent liability coverage, with varying levels depending on whether you were logged into the app and waiting for a request, had passengers in your vehicle, or were en route to pick up a rider at the time of the accident. It is contingent because you will need to establish fault and liability before the rideshare company will make a payout. Minnesota, however, is a no-fault state for car accidents so regardless of who is at fault, your personal auto insurance covers all damages and initial coverage when you aren’t carrying a passenger or enroute to a pickup.
6. Consult an Attorney
Pursuing an personal injury claim against a ride-sharing company can be complex and challenging, especially when you work for that company. Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney who has experience in rideshare accidents. They can help you navigate insurance claims, protect your rights, and pursue compensation if you are entitled to it.
Let the Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys at Brazil Sweeney Law Group Help You
At Brazil Sweeney Law Group, we understand the laws and regulations that govern ride-sharing services in Minnesota and will stand by you throughout the entire legal process, providing support and guidance every step of the way.
If you have been injured in a car accident while driving for Lyft, Uber or another ridesharing app, trust us to fight for your justice and fair compensation. Call now for a free, no-obligation case review and let us get to work for you. There’s no fee unless we win.