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What to Do If You’ve Been Hurt in a Rideshare Accident in Alabama

By: Fred Moore | Jul 16, 2024

Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to catch a ride in minutes. Although these services make life easier, what happens when you’re hurt in a rideshare accident? Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorist, you may wonder who’s liable for your injuries and how you’ll pay for your medical bills and lost time from work. At Moore Law Firm, our rideshare accident lawyers in Mobile, AL, are well-versed in handling these types of complex cases. Here, we offer some straightforward advice about what to do after a Lyft or Uber accident.

When You’re Hurt as a Rideshare Passenger

If you’re injured in an accident as a rideshare passenger, in some circumstances you may be entitled to recover compensation from the rideshare company. Both Uber and Lyft carry $1 million liability policies, but it doesn’t mean you’ll automatically be compensated for damages. The driver must be logged in and working “on the clock” at the time of the auto accident, and if another motorist is at fault, you may have to file a claim with their insurer.

Depending on the specific situation, you may be able to recover compensation from the rideshare driver’s private auto insurance policy and even your own insurance if you have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. Sorting out who is at fault and navigating multiple claims can be daunting. A rideshare accident lawyer can identify all potentially liable parties and pursue all possible sources of compensation on your behalf.

If You’re Hit by a Rideshare Driver

Occupants of other vehicles, pedestrians or injured bystanders, and bicyclists may also have several options for compensation if injured in an accident with a rideshare driver. When multiple parties are involved, it can be confusing to sort out who’s responsible for your damages. Because Uber and Lyft have high liability policy limits, their insurers may fight harder to minimize your injuries, offer inadequate settlement amounts, or deny claims. Rideshare accident attorneys are familiar with their tactics and can fight to help you recover the fair compensation you may be entitled to receive.

Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Alabama

Call 911

Whether you’re a passenger, motorist, or another party who was injured in a rideshare accident, it’s vital to call 911 and wait for the police and paramedics to arrive. Police reports are valuable pieces of evidence that can support claims about how a crash occurred. If possible, ask for a copy of the police report at the scene. If it’s unavailable, your rideshare accident lawyer can request it when working on your case.

Gather Information

Ask the rideshare driver for their name, contact information, and license and insurance information. Jot down their license plate number and everything you remember about how the accident happened. Collect contact and insurance information from any other involved parties and ask witnesses for their contact info as well.

Take Photos

Take photos of the scene, including damage to vehicles and your injuries. Video footage can also be helpful in all types of auto accident claims. Collecting as much visual evidence as possible can help your rideshare accident attorney build a strong case.

Seek Medical Care

It’s crucial to seek medical attention after any accident, even if you don’t believe you’ve been seriously hurt. Symptoms of your injuries may not show up right away, but seeking medical care at an emergency room or doctor’s office ensures you get the treatment you need. In a personal injury claim, medical records provide valuable documentation and evidence that demonstrates the severity of your injuries and substantiates your side of the story.

File a Report with the Rideshare Company

If you’re a passenger who’s been injured in a rideshare crash, you can report it through the app. Other parties can report accidents to Uber and Lyft on their websites. When you report the crash through the app or online, provide basic facts about the accident and your injuries. However, do not speak to rideshare company representatives or their insurance companies, sign any documents, or accept a settlement offer without contacting a personal injury lawyer first.

Contact a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Alabama

Regardless of your role in the accident, it’s vital to contact a rideshare accident attorney for legal advice as soon as possible. Our personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, which means you won’t incur any up-front expenses or pay attorneys’ fees unless you win your case. A rideshare accident lawyer can evaluate your case, advise you on the viability of your claim, and offer the best course of action for recovering compensation.

How an Attorney Can Help with Rideshare Accident Claims

Victims often underestimate the cost of their medical care and lost time from work. It’s also challenging to put a number on non-economic damages, such as emotional distress and pain and suffering. A rideshare accident lawyer knows how to accurately calculate the monetary value of your claim. This is particularly important if you’ve suffered a serious injury that has significantly impacted your quality of life or requires long-term treatment.

Unfortunately, insurance companies are not looking out for injured victims’ best interests. Their main goal is to pay out as little as possible. When multiple insurance companies are involved in a rideshare accident claim, they may work in concert to try and discredit your claims or undervalue your settlement. Car accident lawyers know how to counter these underhanded strategies. As your advocate, a rideshare accident attorney with a record of success in recovering compensation can negotiate on your behalf and handle all aspects of your case so you and your family can focus on your recovery.

Contact Us to Learn More about Rideshare Accident Claims

Since 1985, Moore Law Firm has represented more than 15,000 victims in personal injury cases. If you’ve been injured or have suffered the loss of a loved one in a Lyft, Uber, or another type of crash, our rideshare accident attorneys in Mobile, AL, can help. Call us at 251-445-7602, use the convenient chat feature on our website, or contact us to schedule a free consultation today.