Do you use rideshare apps, like Uber and Lyft? Have you ever been in an accident while a passenger? If not, you may think that the aftermath of the accident is more complicated than a traditional collision, but it’s not. After a crash, you need to take the same six proactive steps.
1. Call for Help
Your adrenaline may be pumping, making it challenging to focus on the here and now following a wreck, you need to breathe and calm yourself. Calling 911 or the police department should be your priority.
2. Assess Injuries
You also need to take the time to assess your injuries and possibly the injuries of others. Determine the severity of wounds and make a decision of the level of emergent care needed; this will help you determine whether to dial 911 or the police directly.
3. Seek Safety
Once emergency services have been contacted, move to safety. If your injuries are too severe, stay where you are, but anyone capable of getting out of further harm’s ways should do so. You can find a safe place on a curb or median, anywhere away from oncoming traffic. If it is nighttime and you have road flares, use them.
4. Collect Necessary Information
Once safe, ask involved parties for their contact and insurance information. You can also ask for the contact information of any witnesses to the accident. While the police will likely collect this information as well, having it on hand is useful for your attorney and any third-party investigating.
5. Take Pictures
If you are able, document the scene as much as possible. Use your smartphone to take pictures of any property damage and injuries. You want to document damages to both vehicles so you have a record of the day.
6. Determine Liability
Finally, you need to determine liability. The police report will help, but since the accident involved an Uber or Lyft driver, the fault is difficult to prove. If the driver was using the app and had a passenger, then the company policy provides protection. However, if the rideshare driver was not logged into the system at the time of the accident, then their personal insurance provides coverage.
The aftermath of a rideshare accident is not unique to any other accident; the complication comes from determining liability or fault. If you need help figuring out your car accident claim, contact an attorney, like a car accident attorney in Scottsdale, AZ from Yearin Law Office.
