Millions of Uber and Lyft users safely arrive at their destinations every day. Unfortunately, some are not so lucky and are hurt or killed in rideshare accidents. At Johnson and Taylor, our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers help clients throughout Oregon recover the compensation they need after a rideshare crash. Our rideshare accident attorneys offer some tips on what to do if you’re involved in a collision.
Call 911
Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911. Wait for the police to arrive and answer any questions they may have for you. Obtain a copy of the police report at the scene if possible – these reports provide valuable evidence you’ll need when filing insurance claims.
Collect Information and Document the Scene
Get your rideshare driver’s name, insurance, and contact information. If multiple vehicles were involved in the crash, obtain all other drivers’ insurance information as well. Take photos of damage to vehicles, your injuries, and the scene. Use your phone’s notepad or recorder to document everything you remember about the accident. Ask for contact information from any witnesses. Collecting as much evidence as possible can help your Uber or Lyft accident attorney put together a strong case.
Seek Medical Attention
Going to the emergency room or another doctor right away ensures your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated. Medical records also provide vital information you’ll need when filing an insurance claim. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, symptoms of some injuries don’t appear right away, so it’s recommended to get checked out by a doctor. Follow all of your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation. Make sure to keep copies of your medical records, bills, and any other accident-related expenses.
Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company
You can report an accident in the Uber and Lyft apps. Although you’ll need to provide details about the accident and your injuries when you report the crash, do not talk to the rideshare company’s representatives or insurance company without speaking to a rideshare accident attorney first.
File Insurance Claims
Both Uber and Lyft require coverage for injured passengers. However, it doesn’t mean they will automatically pay for your medical bills or other damages. If the driver was not logged in on the app at the time of the accident, the rideshare company may not cover anything at all. In this case, you may have to file a claim with the driver’s personal auto insurance company.
Even if you were a passenger in a rideshare accident, report the crash to your own auto insurance company. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to access your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits to cover your medical costs and wage loss.
Contact an Oregon Uber or Lyft Accident Attorney
Do not give a statement to any insurance adjusters, sign anything, or accept a settlement without first speaking to an Uber or Lyft accident lawyer in Oregon. Injured victims often miscalculate the physical, emotional, and financial costs of being hurt in an accident. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and advise you of what it may be worth. They can also explain the process for filing multiple claims if necessary and the most effective course of action for obtaining the full amount of compensation you need and deserve.
A rideshare accident lawyer may be able to help you recover compensation for damages such as:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future wage loss
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and Suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of companionship and consortium
Rideshare accident claims can be complex. It can be overwhelming and stressful to deal with multiple insurance claims as well. A Lyft or Uber car accident attorney handles all communications and negotiations with insurers so you can focus on your recovery. They fight to protect your rights and give you the best chance of recovering maximum compensation in a rideshare accident claim.
At Johnson and Taylor, our Uber and Lyft accident lawyers are dedicated to helping make things right for injured victims. In addition to litigating personal injury cases, we handle divorce and family law, probate, and estate planning matters.
Contact Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers to Schedule a Free Consultation
To schedule a free consultation with a rideshare accident attorney in Salem, Oregon, contact us online or call 503-990-6641. If your condition makes it difficult to travel, we can meet with you at home, by phone, or via Zoom. Our personal injury attorneys serve clients in Salem, Eugene, Bend, the Oregon Coast, Medford, and throughout Oregon.