Auto Accident
In just a few years, rideshare services have skyrocketed in popularity to become one of the most popular ways to get around.
In 2019, it was estimated that about 250,000 people drive for rideshare services like Uber and Lyft in Los Angeles alone, completing about 9 million trips annually.
As convenient as rideshare services are, it’s important to remember that the people who drive for them are most commonly average people with a standard driver’s license, not people with commercial driver’s license or have chauffeur’s endorsements. When rideshare drivers make mistakes, it’s far too easy for passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and occupants of other vehicles to get seriously hurt.
What to do after a rideshare accident
If you’re involved in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, start by taking the same steps as you would with a regular car crash. First, see if you’ve been hurt, check if anyone else needs medical attention, and call an ambulance if one is needed. Even if nobody is hurt, call the police to make sure the accident is reported. Insurance companies may want to see a police report before approving a claim.
While at the scene of the accident, take as many pictures as possible. If there were any witnesses, be sure to get their names and contact information. Don’t forget to get the name and information of the rideshare driver. Be sure to also get the information about the rideshare insurance policy.
Common rideshare accident injuries
How rideshare accidents are different
Rideshare accidents can be more complex than standard car accidents. In a regular car accident, you’re only dealing with the other driver and their insurance company. But in accidents involving rideshare drivers, insurance can be very confusing.
The insurance that applies to a rideshare accident depending on how, exactly, the rideshare driver was using the app at the time of the accident. For example, if the driver wasn’t logged into the app at the time of the accident, the accident would be covered by the driver’s personal auto insurance. But if the accident occurred between the time a ride request is accepted and when a rider reaches their destination, Uber and Lyft both have insurance policies that can cover damages. Or if rideshare driver was not at fault for the accident, you may be able to make a claim against the at-fault driver.
Between the complicated insurance situation and the evolving regulations that apply to rideshare companies, one of the best things you can do if you’ve been hurt in a rideshare accident is get in touch with a rideshare accident attorney as soon as possible.
Contact a Los Angeles rideshare accident attorney
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident is overwhelming enough. The last thing you need is to try and navigate the complicated legal issues that apply to rideshare accidents. When you work with The Wallace Firm, you’ll be able to get the help of a rideshare accident attorney ready to fight on your behalf. We’re in it to help you win and we’re not afraid to take on companies like Uber, Lyft, or their insurance companies. They want you to settle for as little as possible, but we’ll fight for you to get all of the compensation you need. Contact us today for help with your case.