Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft have become a common way to get around in Las Vegas. However, the unfortunate reality of accidents has increased with the increase of rideshares. If you’re involved in a rideshare accident, contacting an attorney and knowing what to do in the aftermath is crucial to protect your rights and seek compensation for any damages or injuries.
This article will guide you through the essential steps to take if you’re involved in a rideshare accident in Las Vegas.
Table of Contents
Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
After an accident, the first and most crucial step is prioritizing the safety and well-being of yourself and other occupants.
Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately to seek medical help.
Even if you feel fine at first, getting medical attention is essential. Sometimes, injuries from car accidents, like whiplash or concussions, may not be apparent immediately. A doctor’s assessment also ensures that any injuries are documented, which can be critical if you need to file a claim later.
Ensure the accident scene is as safe as possible, and move to a safe location away from traffic while waiting for emergency responders.
Call the Police
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After a rideshare accident, it’s essential to contact the police, even if the damage appears minor. A police report provides an official account of the accident, which can be valuable when filing insurance claims or seeking legal compensation. In Las Vegas, law enforcement officers will come to the scene, take statements, and record their observations of the incident.
When speaking to the police, stick to the facts. Don’t speculate or admit fault. If you were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, tell them, as this is pertinent information.
Collect Important Information
While waiting for the authorities to arrive, gather as much information as possible from all parties involved in the accident. Here’s a checklist of what to collect:
- Driver Information: Get the full names, driver’s license numbers, contact information, and insurance details of all drivers involved.
- Rideshare Information: If you were a passenger, take note of your rideshare driver’s name, their vehicle information, and the rideshare app they are using (Uber, Lyft, etc.).
- License Plate Numbers: Record the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved.
- Witnesses: If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information. Their testimony could prove crucial later on.
- Photographs and Videos: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and visible injuries. Visual evidence can be critical for proving fault and damages.
Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company
If you were an Uber or Lyft passenger, it’s essential to report the accident to the rideshare company as soon as possible. Both Uber and Lyft have built-in features in their apps that allow you to report accidents. Once notified, these companies typically launch an investigation, and their insurance policies may cover your damages depending on the circumstances of the crash.
When submitting your report, be clear and concise about what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid exaggerating any details.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Even if you were a rideshare passenger, you should still report the accident to your auto insurance company, especially if you have medical payments or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. While your insurance company may not be responsible for covering the entire incident, it’s essential to notify them if any of your coverage comes into play. Be sure to provide them with all the relevant details, including the police report, if available.
Understand Rideshare Insurance Coverage
One of the complexities of rideshare accidents is determining which insurance policy applies. Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage for their drivers and passengers, but the level of coverage depends on when the accident occurred:
- Driver’s App is On, Waiting for a Ride Request: If the driver is waiting for a ride but has not yet picked up a passenger, Uber, and Lyft provide limited liability coverage: $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
- Driver is En Route to Pick Up a Passenger or During the Trip: Once the driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger, or during the trip itself, Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage and $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Driver’s App is Off: If the rideshare app is turned off, the driver’s personal auto insurance will cover any accidents.
Understanding which coverage applies to your specific situation can be confusing, so it is recommended that you consult a rideshare accident lawyer.
Consult with a Rideshare Accident Lawyer
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Contacting a Las Vegas rideshare accident lawyer is crucial, especially with rideshare accidents involving multiple parties, as the claims process can be complex. If you’ve been injured or suffered damages in a rideshare accident, consulting with a personal injury attorney experienced in handling rideshare cases is highly advisable. They can help navigate the intricacies of rideshare insurance policies, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, medical bills, and other damages.
Your lawyer will also help determine fault and hold the responsible parties accountable. An attorney will guide you through the legal process if the rideshare driver, another motorist, or a third party is to blame.
File a Claim for Compensation
After a rideshare accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. This can include:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future medical bills, including hospital visits, rehabilitation, and prescription medications.
- Lost Wages: If the accident caused you to miss work, you can seek compensation for lost wages.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for any damage to personal property, such as a vehicle or belongings.
To maximize your compensation, gather all necessary documentation, including medical records, bills, and proof of lost wages. Your lawyer will use this information to build a strong case.
