What To Do if You Get Injured in a Rideshare Accident

The last decade has seen the transportation industry completely change. Companies like Uber and Lyft make it possible to get a ride to and from anywhere, at any time of day, all with the touch of a button. In addition to improving the consumer experience, they have revolutionized what we now call the “gig economy”. Because of Uber and Lyft, any driver with a suitable car can become a taxi driver on demand. As the usage of rideshare apps becomes more and more common, we must ask; what happens when the Uber or Lyft you’re riding in is involved in an accident? We’re here to give you the lowdown on your rights in these rideshare services during a crash.

What You Should Do in a Rideshare Accident

If the rideshare vehicle you’re riding in has been involved in an accident, it’s important to be prepared during this distressing time. Make sure to follow these steps:

• Call 911 if there are life-threatening injuries
• Call your local non-emergency line if there are no serious injuries
• Get the insurance information of the rideshare driver
• If another driver is involved, get their insurance info too
• Take pictures of the scene of the accident
• Get the contact information of any witnesses
• Seek immediate medical attention
• Contact a competent Tampa Bay auto accident attorney

Read More > What is the Statute of Limitations for a Florida Accident Injury?

How Liability Coverage Works

Both Uber and Lyft utilize a liability coverage system. The system will determine the compensation that the accident victim(s) of those rideshare companies can receive. Here’s how that system breaks down:

Period 0 – This is when the driver of an Uber or Lyft gets into an accident when they are not logged into the rideshare app. Uber/Lyft typically will not provide liability coverage in this case.

Period 1 – This is when an Uber/Lyft driver is logged in to the app but has not yet accepted a ride and causes an accident, Uber/Lyft provides liability coverage up to $50,000 per person who’s injured in the accident as well as $100,000 total injury liability per accident with $25,000 property damage liability.

Period 2 – This is when the Uber/Lyft driver has accepted a ride and crashed en route to pick up the passenger. The liability coverage, in this case, increases to $1 million.

Period 3 – This is when the Uber/Lyft driver gets into an accident with the passenger(s) in their car. Uber/Lyft provides $1 million in liability coverage in addition to limited coverage for damage to the driver’s car as well as uninsured motorists’ coverage.

Social Media and Your Claim

In the last few years, we’ve seen a rising trend in the social media world. Many people’s first reaction to chaos is to film it and make posts on social media. As tempting as that may be, you should avoid posting anything related to your accident for the sake of your insurance claim.

Read more > Social Media and Your Personal Injury Claim

Although you should take photos and videos after an accident, you should not be sharing them online.

Contact Mickey Keenan if You’ve Been in a Rideshare Accident

Navigating the aftermath of any auto accident can be daunting, particularly if you have received an injury. We understand the ramifications of a serious auto accident. Mickey Keenan P.A. Attorneys at Law have the experience and knowledge to handle Uber and Lift accident claims.

Don’t fight for your rightful compensation on your own. When hiring one of our attorneys, you are hiring a dedicated, compassionate, and aggressive attorney and team who will steadfastly fight for your rights. Contact us today if you or someone you know was injured in an accident.