Essential Things to Note After a Rideshare Accident

When you get into an Uber or Lyft, the possibility of an accident is the last thing on your mind. Of course, you trust the person behind the wheel. However, accidents can happen. And, when they do, you may wonder who is responsible (especially if you sustain injuries requiring extensive medical attention).

If you suffer injuries, you are eligible to file a claim and seek compensation from Uber or Lyft. But first, you must prove the driver’s negligence. Here is everything you should know.

Uber and Lyft Claim They Are Not Responsible for the Actions of Their Drivers

If rideshare companies aren’t typically responsible for the actions of their drivers, then what are they responsible for? Well, Uber and Lyft are responsible for ensuring that their drivers are safe and fit to drive. The companies must perform background checks and ensure their drivers have the experience and qualifications before they head on the road.

Moreover, rideshare companies should confirm that their vehicles are in good working order. Therefore, if an accident happens because the company didn’t do its part to prevent the mishaps, the company may be held liable. For instance, suppose Uber hires an inexperienced driver who causes an accident. Or, one of Lyft’s cars had signs of breakdown, but the company still let the driver take the vehicle to the road.

If you can prove those allegations, the rideshare company will compensate you. However, if the accident resulted from the driver’s negligence, Uber or Lyft won’t take liability for the driver’s action. In that case, you should file a claim directly with the driver’s personal insurer.

As a Passenger, You Must Prove the Driver’s Negligence to Seek Compensation

As a rideshare passenger, you cannot seek settlement from Uber or Lyft without solid evidence that the driver failed to observe some traffic rules, and this negligence caused the accident. The driver’s negligence can include driving under the influence, driving while on the phone, failing to exercise reasonable caution, or speeding, to name a few.

If you can prove that the driver’s negligence led to the accident and your injuries, then you may be able to recover damages from Uber or Lyft. So how do you prove the driver’s negligence?

Gather Evidence

Take clear photos of the accident scene and request witnesses to record their statements if applicable. You also need your medical reports to prove you sustained injuries from the accident.

Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer

Proving negligence after a rideshare accident is complex, especially if you are the only passenger. However, things get more manageable with the assistance of a lawyer to strengthen your claim. In addition, the lawyer knows where to look to gather substantial evidence as you focus on recovery.

You Will Need the Following Evidence

The evidence you need to prove the driver’s negligence depends on the specifics of your case. For instance, if the driver was impaired at the time of the accident, you may need to obtain a police or toxicology report. In the same way, if the responsible driver ignored traffic laws, you may need police reports to prove your case. If the accident resulted from distracted driving, you might need to obtain witness statements or cell phone records.

An experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather the evidence you need to prove the driver’s negligence, as well as offer expertise to assist you in securing the compensation you deserve.

The responsible party after a ridesharing crash can be the Uber or Lyft driver, or a third-party motorist. And, although you qualify to seek compensation for the damages you sustain, whether you get paid or not depends on your ability to prove the driver or company’s negligence.

We are your trusted personal injury lawyers, and you can count on us to help you gather solid proof following an Uber or Lyft accident. We have handled rideshare cases before and can easily navigate the law and insurance requirements on your behalf. Contact The Jaklitsch Law Group today.

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