Morristown Uber/Lyft Accident Attorney
Helping Those Involved In a Ride-sharing Company Accident
Ride-sharing companies such as Uber and Lyft are more prevalent than ever for a number of reasons. The ride-sharing app provides inexpensive transportation to people without any other means of travel. It also helps riders ensure their own safety, and the safety of others, by avoiding drinking and driving. These apps are a go-to alternative for these would be drivers, people traveling to and from airports and special events, and even people who find themselves in need of a ride unexpectedly. Unfortunately, being safe and secure is not always a reality, as many drivers and passengers are involved in accidents.
If you have been involved in a car accident involving any of these online platforms, you will want to hire an Uber accident lawyer or a Lyft accident lawyer who has experience in this field. Please call us for an initial consultation on how we can help with your claim. Call our Morristown Uber/Lyft accident attorney at 973-455-1567 for a personal consultation.
What To Do If You Are In an Accident Involving Uber/Lyft
If you are in an accident using a ride-sharing company such as Uber, there are certain things you should do and some things you should avoid doing. First, if you are in an accident you should contact the police immediately. Police will assist in processing and investigating the accident and speak with the drivers involved. The police will: gather insurance information, speak with witnesses, obtain drivers’ credentials, and issue tickets and accident reports. Accident reports and investigations may prove helpful in determining liability and obtaining damages for injuries sustained by any person involved in an Uber accident.
Seek Medical Treatment for Injuries
Next, if you are injured, seek medical treatment. Inform your medical provider (hospital/doctor/urgent care/paramedics) that you were in a car accident. Usually, auto insurance carriers are responsible for the medical coverage needed for auto accident related injuries. It is likely that Uber would prefer you to go through your own insurance company. However, individual drivers and companies, are required to have automobile insurance policies that cover accidents and injuries. If you were not the driver, the party who ultimately pays for your medical costs may change depending on who is responsible.
Report Accident and Injuries to the Police
Be sure to report the accident to the police but also to Uber of Lyft offices. Drivers are instructed to report accidents to the company but may try to avoid doing so out of concern that they will lose their jobs. It is also beneficial to take photographs of the accident and license plates of the drivers involved. Ask both drivers (if more than one involved) for their insurance information. Lastly, keep the Uber driver’s information in a safe place and take a screenshot of the proof of the ride on your app.
What not to do if you are in an accident involving Uber/Lyft
If you are in an Uber accident, there are things you should not do. Do not ignore any injuries that you may have. Some people may avoid seeking medical treatment because they discount or minimize their injuries and want to avoid the inconvenience of going to the doctor. Often, injuries do not present with symptoms right away, and you may not feel any pain until the next day or days later. Going to the doctor sooner rather than later can help in avoiding further medical issues down the line.
If it is not a medical emergency, do not ignore the situation and leave. It is best to remain on the scene, as you may be able to seek or provide pertinent information. As much as you may not want to be involved in the situation, you may have to be for your own safety and perhaps the eventual safety of others who could be harmed by failing to report an unsafe driver.
Contact a Newton NJ Car Accident Attorney
If you have been involved in a Lyft or ride sharing accident, at The Law Office of Michael P. Burakoff we can assist you with the procedures to obtaining financial recovery for any injuries that you may have suffered as a result of the car incident. Call today 973-455-1567 for more information or access our website to fill out an online form.
