Did you know that Lyft has over two million drivers as of 2022?
Ridesharing services like Lyft have revolutionized the way people travel and commute. With just a few taps on your phone, you can easily request a ride and reach your destination safely and conveniently.
However, as with any other mode of transportation, accidents can happen while using Lyft. In such cases, it’s important to know what steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your rights.
This guide will provide you with all the necessary information on what to do if you’re involved in a Lyft accident. Read on to learn more.
Check for Injuries
The first and most important step is to assess the situation and check if anyone has been injured. If there are any serious injuries, call 911 immediately and seek medical help as soon as possible.
Even if the injuries seem minor, it’s always better to seek medical attention to make sure there are no underlying issues. The safety and well-being of everyone involved should be your top priority.
Move to a Safe Location
If it’s possible and safe to do so, move the vehicles involved in the accident to a safe location. This will help avoid further collisions and potential injuries to you or other passengers.
However, if there are any serious injuries or the vehicles cannot be moved, it’s best to leave them in place and wait for emergency services to arrive.
Call the Police
Calling the police is vital. It ensures that an objective third-party document is available to describe the accident event. The responding officers will prepare an accident report.
This will detail the following:
- Circumstances of the incident
- Any violations of the law
- Determining who they believe to be at fault
This report can be an essential piece of evidence if there is a dispute about the accident later on. Remember to cooperate fully with the police when they arrive but avoid admitting fault or assigning blame. Just stick to the facts as you know them.
The police officer’s unbiased report can help establish facts. They can assign responsibility in a way that could be crucial for insurance claims or legal proceedings.
Gather Information
When gathering information, start by documenting the scene of the accident. Use your phone to take photographs from multiple angles and highlight the vehicles involved. This visual evidence can be incredibly valuable for insurance claims or potential legal proceedings later on.
Next, exchange contact and insurance details with the other parties involved in the accident. This should include full names, addresses, contact numbers, insurance providers, and policy numbers. While it might feel uncomfortable, it’s crucial to get this information for further follow-up.
If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information as well. Their account of the incident could shed light on details you might have missed and corroborate your version of events. Be sure to jot down their names, contact numbers, and what they claim to have seen.
Report the Accident to Lyft
It’s important to report the accident to Lyft as soon as possible. You can do this by going into the app and selecting “Report an Accident” from the Help menu. This will alert Lyft of the incident and initiate their internal investigation process.
Even if you’re not at fault, it’s crucial to report the accident as Lyft has a $1 million liability insurance policy for accidents involving their drivers. This coverage can help cover any damages or injuries resulting from the accident.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
You should also report the accident to your own insurance provider. This will help them prepare for any potential claims and advise you on the next steps to take. You might be required to provide a copy of the police report, so make sure to have that handy.
It’s important to note that Lyft’s insurance policy only covers accidents that occur while the driver is actively on a trip with a passenger in the car. If the accident happened while you were waiting for a ride or during the driver’s personal time, your own insurance policy will be responsible for covering any damages.
Document Your Expenses
Keep a detailed record of your expenses related to the accident. This can include medical bills, property damage, and income loss due to time taken off work. These documents can be instrumental in determining the amount of compensation you should receive.
Also, make sure to keep track of any other damages, such as pain and suffering or emotional distress. These non-monetary losses can also be included in your claim.
Seek Legal Advice
Seeking legal advice after a Lyft accident can be a pivotal action. Lawyers who specialize in personal injury cases have extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations related to rideshare accidents. They understand how to navigate the intricate pathways of insurance claims, particularly when multiple parties are involved.
Moreover, an attorney can help gather and compile all the necessary evidence to strengthen your case. If the insurance company disputes the claim or offers a settlement that’s insufficient to cover your damages and medical expenses, a lawyer can negotiate on your behalf.
Additionally, with a lawyer by your side, you don’t have to tackle the stressful and time-consuming legal process alone. They can handle all correspondence and negotiations. This allows you to focus on your recovery.
To help you look for a reliable lawyer, check out https://calillaw.com/practices/uber-lyft/. They have top-rated personal injury lawyers who specialize in Lyft accidents.
Monitor Your Health
After an accident, it’s critical to stay vigilant about your health. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could manifest symptoms over time. Continually monitor your physical and mental well-being in the days following the accident.
Promptly report any changes to your healthcare provider. This can ensure that you receive the appropriate care and documentation needed for your case.
Lyft Accident: Doing the Next Right Thing
Being involved in a Lyft accident is a stressful and unexpected situation. It’s important to remain calm and follow the necessary steps outlined in this guide. Seeking medical attention, documenting the accident, and contacting a lawyer is crucial in protecting your rights and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Remember, it’s important to act quickly and make informed decisions. Stay safe and informed, and take the necessary steps to protect yourself in the event of a Lyft accident. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted legal professional for further guidance and support.
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