Uber is among the most popular ridesharing services in the world, with over 93 million active users and 3.9 million drivers. However, as convenient and affordable as Uber may be, it is not immune to accidents.
If you are involved in an Uber accident, whether as a passenger, a driver, or a third party, the question of ‘what to do next?’ is most likely going to be on your mind. How do you report the accident? Who is liable for the damages? How do you get compensated for your injuries?
These are some of the questions that may arise after an Uber accident, and while a rideshare accident attorney would provide much better assistance, we’re here to help in our little way through this article.
Call An Ambulance
Your health comes first. If you are hurt, call 911 and get help. Don’t worry about anything else until you are safe and stable. After you’ve ensured your safety, check on others and call 911 if they need help.
Even if you feel fine, you may have hidden injuries that can show up later. The phrase “better safe than sorry” proves true here. Getting medical attention is also important for your case. You need to prove your injuries using medical records and bills. These will prove the harm you suffered and the costs you incurred.
Inform The Police
You need to report the accident to the police. This is required by the law in most states, especially if there are injuries or property damage. The police will write a report that will contain vital information, such as:
- The date, time, location, and cause of the accident
- The names and contact information of the parties involved
- The insurance information of the drivers
- The witnesses’ statements
- The officer’s opinion on who was at fault
The police report will help you establish and substantiate your claim. It will also help you avoid any disputes or frauds that may arise later.
Hunt For Evidence
You need to collect as much information as you can. This is essential to building a strong case. Some of the information you need to collect includes:
- The name, contact details, and insurance information of everyone involved
- Pictures and videos of the accident scene
- The Uber driver’s name, phone number, and license plate number
- The Uber ride receipt or confirmation number
- The names and contact information of any witnesses
- The police report number and the officer’s name and badge number
Unleash your inner journalist. Take pictures from different angles and distances, and capture the whole scene. If the Uber driver refuses to give you their insurance information, ask the police to get it for you. You may need to contact the driver’s insurance before Uber’s insurance kicks in.
Lawyer Up
You need a lawyer to help you claim any compensation. Don’t wait to reach out to an attorney. Lawyer up as soon as possible.
A lawyer will advise you on what to do next and how to protect your rights and interests. They will also handle all the negotiations and communication with the insurance company.
Uber’s insurance policy offers up to $1 million to passengers injured in accidents involving their drivers. However, the coverage is contingent upon the inability of the driver’s insurance to cover your claim.
Uber will try to shift the liability to the driver’s insurance. The driver’s insurance may try to deny or reduce your claim. You need a lawyer to fight for you and get you the justice and compensation you deserve.
While we hope you never get into an Uber accident, we would rather you were informed and prepared in the event of its occurrence.
