Like many people today, you probably use ridesharing services such as Uber or Lyft now and then to get to the grocery store or elsewhere. However, when you step into a rideshare vehicle, the last thing you expect is to be involved in an accident. Unfortunately, this happens more often than most people realize. Should you be involved in a rideshare accident, here are some steps you should take immediately.
Call Police
If you are able to do so, always call the police to the scene of your accident. In doing so, you will be assured that an accident report will be filed, which could be crucial if you are involved in legal action. Since the police will investigate the cause of the accident, the report could contain key information that could help you in court.
Get Medical Treatment
Along with calling the police to the scene, always be willing to accept medical treatment at the scene, even if you don’t think you are seriously injured. Since some injuries such as whiplash and herniated discs may not exhibit symptoms until hours or days later, getting immediate medical attention will ensure your injuries are documented immediately following the accident.
Say as Little as Possible
Although you were only a passenger in the rideshare vehicle, this does not mean the driver or others may not at some point try to blame you for the accident. Because of this, say as little as possible about the accident until you have spoken to an attorney at a law office that handles rideshare accidents. If you happen to say “I’m sorry” to the rideshare driver, this one remark could be construed as you admitting you did something to cause the accident.
Hire an Attorney
Finally, always hire an attorney as quickly as possible after your rideshare accident. Should you be seriously injured, you will need to have financial compensation to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and your pain and suffering. In many cases, the rideshare company may try to stall or deny you the money you need and deserve. By hiring an attorney who can assemble a strong body of evidence on your behalf, your attorney can put enough pressure on the company so that you can get an out-of-court settlement. If this happens, you will be able to get maximum compensation much quicker than if your case went to court.
By following the steps mentioned here, you should be able to emerge from your rideshare accident with the financial compensation needed to pay your medical bills and other damages.
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber
