When individuals use a rideshare service such as Uber, they expect to get safely to their destination. Nevertheless, accidents can happen. These accidents are immensely stressful for passengers and drivers alike. Plus, you may sustain injuries in an Uber accident.
If you are a passenger in an Uber and are in an accident, you may be curious about what you should do to help you preserve your welfare and legal rights. You may wonder, What happens if your Uber gets into an accident? At Frederick Law Firm, we are here to help you understand what you should do after a collision. Below, we outline some steps you can take after your Uber is in an accident. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
What Steps Should I Take After the Accident?
Trying to determine what happens if your Uber gets into an accident can be confusing. The following are essential steps you should follow if you are a passenger and your Uber gets in an accident.
Get Medical Care
The first thing you should do if an Uber vehicle crashes with you as a passenger is to ensure the safety of those around you and yourself. You should seek medical care. Even if you believe you do not have severe injuries, getting medical attention is a good idea because you might have internal or hidden injuries. Seeking immediate medical care can also help you strengthen any potential claim for damages by clarifying that your injuries are connected to the accident.
You need to follow the recommendations given to you by healthcare professionals. You’ll also need copies of any medical documents and treatment plans. If you have any questions about how to collect evidence of your injuries, contact our attorneys at Frederick Law Firm.
Report the Collision to the Police
You should report the accident to the police as soon as possible. They can file a police report that includes pertinent information about the crash. Police reports typically contain some of the following details:
- The location, date, and time of the accident;
- Information about the people involved;
- Details about the vehicles involved; and
- Statements from drivers and passengers.
Under California law, a driver must call the police when they’re involved in an accident resulting in injury or death. Otherwise, they may face criminal penalties.
Report the Accident to Uber
You and the driver should report the accident to Uber. You can do this by submitting an accident report on Uber’s website. Uber’s app also allows customers to report an accident. To do so, go to “Trip and Fare Review” and select “I was involved in an accident.”
Make sure that you pick the appropriate trip and provide all of the information you have. A team member at Uber will then get in touch with you. Remember to be careful about the information you provide. Uber corporate may find ways to limit its liability based on statements you make to the company.
Document the Details of the Accident
It is crucial to document as many details of the collision as possible. This information will be vital when it comes time to file your claim. You can do this by taking photos and videos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved. You should also document any injuries that you suffered and take pictures.
Collect Witness Contact Information
When you are a passenger in an Uber accident, it is critical to gather the contact information of all parties involved. You should write down the names of each driver involved and their insurance information. This includes not only other drivers but also your own Uber driver. Gather contact information from any witnesses as well.
Speak to an Attorney
Uber accident cases can be complicated. They often involve multiple parties, Uber, and multiple insurance companies. A lawyer can help you navigate these issues and fight for fair compensation. A lawyer can answer any questions about what happens if your Uber crashes.
If you suffered injuries in an Uber accident, the accomplished attorneys at the Frederick Law Firm are here to help. We have aggressively advocated for our clients for over 40 years. Our caring team is familiar with Uber crash cases and can assist you in recovering the compensation you need for your injuries.
What Are the Insurance Requirements for Rideshare Drivers in California?
In California, Uber drivers must always have rideshare insurance while the app is on. There are different “periods” that determine the insurance requirements that apply. If the driver is paired with a passenger and they have gotten into the vehicle, then Uber carries a $1 million liability insurance policy. However, if the app was switched off, the driver’s personal insurance should apply.
Uber also offers contingent comprehensive and collision insurance. This insurance coverage is up to the vehicle’s actual cash value with a $2,500 deductible.
What If the Uber Driver Was at Fault for the Accident?
If the driver was at fault for the accident, they would be responsible for damages. Generally, you will have to prove negligence on the part of the driver. There are four elements required to prove negligence:
- Duty of care,
- Breach of duty,
- Causation, and
- Damages.
Proving negligence can be difficult. An experienced Uber accident attorney, such as those at the Frederick Law Firm, can explain negligence and how to prove it in your case.
What Other Parties Could Share in Liability?
Other parties may also be liable for your injuries in an Uber accident. This will depend on the unique circumstances of your accident. Other potentially liable parties may consist of:
- A manufacturer of defective automobile parts;
- A corporation, if the at-fault driver was engaged in work activities at the time; or
- Other parties on the road, such as truck drivers.
Many different parties may share in liability, and there can be more than one cause of an accident. Thus, speaking with an Uber accident attorney right away is crucial.
How Our Attorneys Can Help You
At the Frederick Law Firm, we are here to help you if you have suffered injuries in an Uber accident in California. Our seasoned team can aid you in obtaining compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, medical bills, and other losses. The attorneys in our Nipomo, California office have recovered millions for our clients over the years. Our clients are our top priority, and we are here to help you achieve the results you deserve.Our practice areas include auto accidents, brain injury claims, and wrongful death. Don’t hesitate to contact our lawyers today.
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