Providing convenient flexible and cash-free ways to get around by matching riders with drivers on demand, rideshare apps transformed the transportation industry. But by blurring the line between personal and commercial driving, they’ve also raised legal and safety concerns.
What You Should Know as a Rideshare Passenger
Recently Minnesota and other states created laws to regulate how rideshare companies like Lyft and Uber operate and are insured. These laws were created to help reduce the prevalence of accidents and increase rider safety.
Uber and Lyft now require their rideshare drivers to carry personal car insurance. Both companies also provide additional insurance coverage when drivers are using their apps. But being injured in a rideshare accident doesn’t automatically mean Uber or Lyft will cover your damages.
Like most car accident claims, you will need to show fault before you can get compensation for your losses. Whether it was your driver or another driver who was at fault and whether or not the rideshare driver was logged into the app, waiting for a ride request or driving a client can all play a factor into your personal injury claim, making rideshare injury cases more complicated than a typical car accident claim. Having an experienced ride share attorney, like those at Brazil Sweeney Law, on your side from the start can help you get the compensation you deserve.
What You Should Do if You are in a Rideshare Accident
If you’re involved in a crash as a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you should take the following steps.
Check for Injuries & Contact 911
If you are able, make sure everyone involved in the accident is safe. Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured, including yourself, and to report the accident and get an office report filed.
Collect Evidence & Write Down What Happened
Exchange names and contact information with everyone involved in the crash and any witnesses. Copy down license plate number, insurance info and take pictures of the accident scene, road conditions, vehicle damage and injuries. While it’s still fresh in your mind, write down everything you can remember about the accident.
Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft
Notify the rideshare company of the incident using their app or website. You may be contacted by a rideshare company representative for a statement about the accident. If you have questions or if you’ve been seriously injured, you might want to talk to a lawyer before you talk about the accident with anyone.
Seek Medical Care
Get a medical exam immediately after the accident, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries are not immediately apparent and if you don’t see medical attention immediately the insurance company could claim that your injuries are related to the accident.
Call a Lawyer
Rideshare accidents can be complicated. The best way to protect your rights and ensure you receive appropriate compensation is to contact a law office.
Let the Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys at Brazil Sweeney Law Group Help You
If you have been injured in a car accident involving Lyft, Uber or another rideshare platform, trust us to fight for your justice and fair compensation. From determining fault to sorting out multiple insurance policies, pursuing an injury claim against a ride-sharing company can be complicated. Our experienced personal injury vehicle accident attorneys understand the laws and regulations that govern ride-share services in Minnesota and will be by your side throughout the entire legal process.