Posted on January 7, 25

in Car Accidents

Rideshare accidents differ from regular car accidents because multiple parties may be involved, including the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and insurance providers. Taking the right steps after an accident can help protect your health, your rights, and your ability to seek compensation.

1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety should be your top priority after an accident.

  • Check for injuries: Assess yourself, passengers, and others involved in the crash.
  • Call 911: If anyone is injured, seek immediate medical attention.
  • Move to a safe location: If possible, move out of traffic to avoid further danger.

Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention as some conditions, such as whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away.

2. Call the Police and File an Accident Report

Reporting the accident to law enforcement is crucial.

  • A police officer will document the scene and create an official accident report, which can be valuable evidence for your claim.
  • Provide accurate information but avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the accident.

If law enforcement does not come to the scene, file a report with your local DMV or police department as soon as possible.

3. Gather Important Information at the Scene

To protect your rights, collect as much information as possible at the accident scene. This includes:

  • Uber or Lyft Driver Information: Get the driver’s name, phone number, and rideshare company details.
  • License Plate and Vehicle Information: Note the make, model, and license plate of all involved vehicles.
  • Insurance Information: Obtain insurance details from all drivers, including the rideshare driver’s personal insurance and any Uber or Lyft coverage.
  • Witness Contact Information: If there are witnesses, get their names and phone numbers as their statements can help support your claim.
  • Take Photos and Videos: Document vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and injuries.

4. Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft

If the crash involved an active Uber or Lyft ride, report the accident through the company’s app:

Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that may apply depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Be careful when speaking to any insurance adjusters and avoid accepting an early settlement offer before consulting an attorney.

5. Determine Liability and Insurance Coverage

Liability in a rideshare accident depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:

  • App Off/Driver Not Logged In: The driver’s personal insurance applies.
  • App On/Driver Waiting for a Ride Request: Uber/Lyft provides contingent coverage (up to $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 per accident).
  • Ride Accepted/Passenger in the Car: Uber/Lyft’s $1 million commercial liability policy applies.

If another driver caused the accident, their insurance company is responsible for damages.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Even if you were a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, report the accident to your own auto insurance provider. Depending on your policy, you may have coverage you can utilize.

7. Consult a Rideshare Accident Attorney

Uber and Lyft accident claims can be complex, involving multiple insurance providers and legal challenges. A West Virginia Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney can help you:

  • Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
  • Identify all liable parties to maximize your claim.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlements.
  • File a lawsuit if necessary to secure fair compensation.

An experienced Charleston, WV rideshare lawyer ensures your rights are protected and fights for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contact or call (304) 720-6700 for a free case consultation today.