What to Do Immediately After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Scartelli Olszewski P.C.

Rideshares are easy, they’re convenient, and most of the time, they’re a safe option. But when an accident happens in an Uber or Lyft, that convenience can turn into confusion fast. Suddenly, you’re left wondering who to call, what to report, and how medical bills or lost wages will be covered. Unlike a typical car accident, rideshare crashes involve extra layers of complexity. Multiple drivers, companies, and insurance policies can all play a role. Knowing what steps to take right away is crucial to protect your rights if you’re ever in this situation.

Once you’re safe, don’t hesitate. Contact us for legal help. Navigating insurance companies is tough enough on its own. Adding in a corporation to the mix makes it even harder. Don’t go it alone and hope that all of these companies have your best interests in mind.

For Rideshare Drivers

Just like a normal car accident, there are steps you should follow, with a few differences as someone who is currently at work.

• Make sure you’re okay and account for your injuries
• Check your rider(s). See if they’re okay
• Contact the police and/or ambulance. Remember to take note of the police report number. You will need that information
• Take photos of both vehicles and the scene
• Move your vehicle to safety, if able
• Exchange contact information and insurance information with the other driver and collect contact information from any witnesses
• Report the crash as the driver from your Uber or Lyft app
• Avoid making statements to insurance right away. They may reach out quickly. Avoid accepting any settlements before speaking to an attorney

For Riders

• Take stock of your injuries and see if everyone is okay
• Let the rideshare company like Uber or Lyft know about the accident. Any rideshare app should have a form built into their Safety features
• Document the scene. Even though you weren’t driving, you have the least control in the situation as a third party and should protect yourself in whatever way you can. Take photos, screenshot your Rideshare App screen making sure to get details like driver’s name, pickup/dropoff, time, route, etc.
• Gather contact information from the driver and any witnesses

Having your own independent record of events is a good way to protect yourself. Many rideshare apps have their own insurance that should cover you, and having an accurate record of what happened could help that process along.

The attorneys at Scartelli Olszewski, P.C. have experience handling rideshare accidents in Pennsylvania and can guide you through the insurance process, help preserve your evidence, and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident, contact our team today to protect your rights and your future.