What to Do If You Have Been Hurt in a Rideshare Accident in Atlanta
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the way we travel by offering convenience and accessibility at the touch of a button. While rideshares are considered a relatively safe mode of transportation, accidents can and do occur. Whether you are injured as a result of the rideshare driver’s negligence or someone else’s recklessness, it is important for you to know what to do and what not to do in the aftermath of a rideshare accident in order to safeguard your legal right to pursue compensation.
What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Atlanta, GA
Ensure Safety First
Check yourself and others in the vehicle for injuries. If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 immediately and ask for medical assistance. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to get checked by a qualified healthcare professional as some injuries might not be immediately apparent.
Document the Scene
If it is safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to all vehicles involved, your injuries, damage to your personal items, road conditions, and any traffic signals or other landmarks nearby. This documentation can be crucial for your insurance claim and any potential legal action against the at-fault parties.
Exchange Information
Obtain contact information and insurance details from the rideshare driver and any other drivers involved in the accident. Also, get the names and contact information of other drivers or passersby who witnessed the accident.
Save Your Rideshare Details
Make sure you save all the relevant information about the ride. The rideshare app can provide a record of communication between you and the driver as well as the rideshare company, which can be useful in corroborating your account of the accident. Also, make sure you save any notifications or updates related to the incident from the rideshare company.
Notify the Rideshare Company
Report the accident to the ridesharing company (preferably using their app) as soon as possible. They have specific protocols for handling such incidents and notifying them promptly can help facilitate your claim process.
File a Police Report
Make sure you file a report with the police. This report can serve as an official record of the incident and is typically needed for insurance claims.
Consult a Rideshare Accident Attorney
Contact an Atlanta personal injury lawyer who is experienced in handling rideshare accident cases. Early legal representation is the best way to protect your rights and get the settlement you deserve.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintain a detailed record of all medical treatments, expenses, and any communication related to the accident. This information is vital for your legal and insurance claims.
What Not to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Atlanta, GA
Do Not Admit Fault
Even if you feel partially responsible for the accident, avoid admitting fault at the scene to the Uber/Lyft driver, the other drivers involved in the accident (if any), the police, or any other third party. Liability in rideshare accidents can be complex and prematurely admitting fault can undermine your case. Leave the determination of fault to the authorities and your attorney.
Do Not Delay Seeking Medical Attention
Ignoring or postponing medical treatment can not only endanger your health but also weaken your claim. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent and any delay in treatment can be used against you to argue that your injuries were not serious or were caused by something other than the accident.
Do Not Negotiate Directly with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies might offer a settlement quickly to minimize their liability. Accepting such an offer without consulting an attorney can result in a lower payout than what you might be entitled to. Always consult with a seasoned Atlanta personal injury attorney before accepting any settlement.
Do Not Post About the Accident on Social Media
Avoid discussing the accident or your injuries on social media. Posts or comments about the accident can be used by insurance companies or opposing parties to dispute your claim or argue that your injuries are not as severe as you claim.
The Rideshare Company’s Liability Coverage for Accidents
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide liability insurance policies to cover accidents involving their drivers, but the extent and applicability of this coverage depend on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Understanding how these policies work is crucial for determining liability and potential compensation.
Rideshare liability coverage is structured into three main periods:
- Period 1: When the driver is logged into the rideshare app but has not yet accepted a ride, the company typically provides limited coverage. This coverage generally includes liability insurance of up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. However, the driver’s personal auto insurance may also apply during this period.
- Period 2: Once the driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger, the rideshare company’s primary liability coverage is activated. This includes up to $1 million in liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage. The coverage remains in effect until the passenger is dropped off.
- Period 3: During the time the passenger is in the vehicle, the rideshare company maintains the same $1 million liability coverage. This comprehensive coverage is designed to protect passengers, drivers, and third parties in the event of an accident.
Determining liability in rideshare accidents can be complicated due to the interplay of multiple insurance policies and the specifics of the driver’s activity at the time of the accident. That is why you need to have an experienced Atlanta rideshare accident attorney on your side, as they can navigate the complexities of insurance claims and ensure all liable parties are held accountable.
A skilled Uber/Lyft accident attorney in Atlanta can investigate the accident, identify all possible sources of compensation, negotiate with insurance companies, and make sure you receive the settlement you deserve.
Get Strong Legal Representation from Atlanta Rideshare Accident Lawyers
Dealing with the aftermath of Uber and Lyft accidents can be challenging, with multiple parties potentially involved and complex insurance issues at play. To ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, you need an experienced Atlanta personal injury lawyer on your side.
At Miller Injury Trial Law, our founder Tanya Miller has extensive experience representing clients who have been injured because of the negligence or reckless actions of another party. Whether it is negotiating with the insurance company or representing you in court, Tanya is prepared to go the extra mile to make sure you get the financial recovery you are entitled to. Call us today at 855-44MILLER or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our proven Atlanta rideshare accident attorneys.
