What To Do After an Uber/Lyft Accident in California
As the popularity of rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have grown, so have the number of accidents involving Uber/Lyft drivers. This is true even though these companies should conduct multiple background checks to verify that their drivers have safe driving records.
After being injured in an accident caused by negligence or recklessness on the part of an Uber/Lyft driver, you can hold the driver accountable for any injuries or losses you incurred as a result of the accident. Furthermore, you can hold the rideshare company itself accountable for any damages caused by their driver as they are common carriers. A common carrier
provides transportation to the general public. Common carriers must carry passengers safely. Common carriers must use the highest care and the vigilance of a very cautious person. They must do all that human care, vigilance, and foresight reasonably can do under the circumstances to avoid harm to passengers.
If you have been injured in an Uber/Lyft accident in California, our experienced California personal injury lawyers can help you determine which parties are liable and obtain fair compensation. Call us today for a free case evaluation.
Steps to Take After an Uber/Lyft Accident
As it is with any motor vehicle accident, the sudden reality that you have been involved in an Uber/Lyft accident can render you bewildered, especially if you or someone else has been injured. But, knowing what to do after a rideshare accident can help you protect your rights and ensure that the matter is resolved with the best possible outcome.
After being involved in an accident with an Uber/Lyft driver, here are some actions that you must take immediately:
Call 911
Whether you are a driver, passenger, or pedestrian who has been involved in an accident with an Uber/Lyft driver, the first thing you have to do is call 911 to report the accident to law enforcement and to get emergency medical assistance for yourself and anyone else who has been injured.
Collect Information
When the police arrive at the scene of the accident, they will usually make a report including the names, addresses, and insurance information of everyone involved. If the police don’t facilitate the sharing of this information between the parties involved, it is important that you offer and request this information from the other parties on your own.
Report the Accident
You should report your Uber/Lyft accident to the rideshare company as soon as possible. Uber and Lyft have insurance coverage to protect their passengers.
Consult with an Attorney
Sometimes, establishing who is liable for your injuries and losses – the Uber/Lyft driver, the rideshare company, or both – can be challenging. What’s more, the liable party (or their insurance provider) may attempt to deny or minimize your claim. In these cases, you will need to file a lawsuit against the liable party to recover the compensation you deserve. Many times the insurance company will try to lowball your harms and losses and only offer a fraction of your damages to settle your case.
This is why, if you have been injured in an Uber/Lyft accident, you should always consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. The right attorney will investigate the accident to determine who is liable, let you know if you need to file a personal injury claim to recover the compensation you deserve, and ensure that you are treated fairly.
Contact an Experienced California Personal Injury Lawyer
For more information on what to do after a Uber/Lyft accident in California, call our law firm today at (562) 901-4664 or visit our contact page to arrange a free consultation with an experienced California personal injury attorney.
Christopher Montes de Oca is an experienced personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles. Chris is recognized as a “Super Lawyer Rising Star,” a recognition that only 2.5 percent of lawyers receive, because of the exceptional results he has seen and his dedication to his clients. Chris services clients throughout Los Angeles, including Echo Park, Maywood, Long Beach, Whittier, Glendale, La Mirada, Pico Rivera, Hacienda Heights, and Alhambra. Call him today for a free consultation at (562) 901-4664.