As long as there are cars, scooters, and other vehicles on the road, Motor Vehicle Accidents (MVAs) will follow. It’s the reality of traffic, unfortunately; but while we can’t prevent mistakes from being made, we can be there for you when you need us most! Our clients usually know what to do after a fender bender, but we often get asked: what happens after the accident when you’re a passenger or driver of a ridesharing vehicle? Well, like always, Litco Law is ready to help. Keep reading for the breakdown on ridesharing MVAs.
Step 1: Consider your own health & safety
If you’ve been in an accident while using a ridesharing service, you should look after yourself first. Make sure to seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine. If you’re seriously hurt, call emergency services right away. Remember, it may take hours, days, or even weeks to realize the full extent of your injuries, especially with adrenaline running high… so the sooner you get looked at by a medical professional (and ideally a family doctor), the better. The results of diagnostic tests, along with your doctor’s records, will ensure that you get the treatment you need. Plus, it will provide valuable evidence for your case should you decide to make a claim against the responsible driver.
Step 2: Collect all driver contact info
Were you in an Uber or Lyft at the time of the accident? Even if your driver was not at fault, it’s very important to get their contact information. What about an e-scooter? The same rules apply— and it’s better to be thorough when it comes to an MVA. If you are able, take down the names and phone numbers of all drivers involved, as well as witnesses. Take advantage of your cell phone, as you can use it to document everything from insurance and registration information to photos of the scene. But don’t worry! We’ve got your back if you miss this step, too. Many people suffer from shock or serious injury after an accident, so documentation isn’t always top of mind. That’s why Litco Law’s rideshare accident lawyers are skilled in gathering evidence after the fact.
Step 3: Contact a Personal Injury lawyer ASAP
Though you generally have up to two years from the date of a rideshare accident to make a claim against the responsible driver in court, it’s important not to wait in case other circumstances arise. At Litco Law, we’ll provide answers even if you don’t proceed with a lawyer… and we’ll always let you know what type of compensation and benefits you may be entitled to. We will ensure that you’re taken care of, even with complicated situations like the following:
- A rideshare user injuring someone else through their own negligence;
- An unknown person leaving an e-bike or e-scooter on the street, causing damage to cars/passengers;
- An Uber/Lyft driver injuring their passenger in a traffic accident;
- A child getting unauthorized access to an electric bike or scooter, causing injury; or
- An e-scooter or e-bike being mechanically faulty, causing injury.
The outcome of each of these cases will ultimately depend on the specifics of the incident and insurance coverage. However, our ridesharing accident lawyers will do all the legal work and paperwork for you, so you can focus on what matters most, like your recovery! While it’s common for insurance companies to offer lowball settlements, we can help you determine what your claim is really “worth” in the eyes of an experienced Personal Injury lawyer. We’ll also consider important deadlines for accessing key medical benefits. Litco Law will walk you through all of it, and it won’t cost you a thing to speak to a Personal Injury lawyer. Best part? If you do choose to proceed with a claim, we don’t get paid until you get paid. That’s what caring is all about!
Step 4: Get back to better
Once you reach out to us, the only thing you need to focus on is recovery. Litco Law is committed to keeping you informed every step of the way… so we’ll always fill you in on what matters most. As ridesharing MVAs are especially unique— and the types of insurance that ridesharing companies provide continues to evolve— Litco Law’s Personal Injury lawyers will always be here to help you find the answer, even if we’re not it.
Questions about Uber, Lyft, Lime or Bird? We can answer them all.
Litco Law is here to reduce your stress in any way we can— so don’t let the uncertainty or novelty of rideshare services discourage you from reaching out. After all, it’s our goal to help you get your life back! Our lawyers will ensure you get fair compensation for your injuries, and access to the treatment and benefits you are entitled to. So if you or someone you love has recently been injured in an electric bike, scooter, or ride-hailing accident, give us a call or click here to speak with a team that truly cares.
