Uber Driver

The convenience, low cost and reliability of using rideshare vehicles to get from one place to another has turned companies such as Uber and Lyft into household names. When you use a ridesharing application, you can have a vehicle dispatched to your location with a few finger swipes. Uber, Lyft and other rideshare companies are growing in popularity.

Injured Uber DriverWith billions of vehicle trips being taken nationwide, there is the increased risk of car accidents involving these rideshare vehicles. Passengers are at risk of suffering major or even catastrophic injuries while riding in these vehicles. There is always the question of who should be held liable and who will pay for the damages caused to a passenger injured in a Rhode Island car accident.

What Should I Do If I Am Injured In A Rideshare Vehicle?

Here are some of the critical steps passengers can take to protect their legal rights if they have been injured in an Uber/Lyft accident or while in a rideshare vehicle:

  • File reports: Just as you would with any type of auto accident, it is important to remain at the scene and file a police report. Obtain a copy of the police report for your own records. Report your accident to the rideshare company as well. Both Uber and Lyft have accident claim forms available on their websites or through the apps. Report your accident as soon as possible. If you have trouble getting the company to accept your accident report, contact an experienced car accident lawyer right away.
  • Injured Uber passenger seeking medical attentionMedical attention: Seek and obtain prompt medical attention, treatment and care. If you are offered treatment at the scene, take it. Even if you don’t believe you have suffered serious injuries, it is a good idea to go to a hospital and get a medical evaluation to rule out any internal injuries.
  • Uber driver taking pictures of car accidentEvidence from the scene: Gather as much evidence as possible including photos and videos of the crash scene and of the damaged cars. Be sure to get names and contract information as well as insurance information from other parties involved in the collision. Also, obtain names and contact information for anyone who may have witnessed the Uber accident.
  • Contacting an attorney: Car accidents involving rideshare companies can be complicated because these companies tend to pass the buck and get out of facing liability for an accident. An experienced car accident lawyer who has handled these types of cases can help you build your case and secure maximum compensation for your injuries, damages and losses.

Call Our Firm For Help Today!

Uber Accident Lawyer meeting clientUber and other rideshare companies portray themselves as technology companies rather than transportation companies. As this type of service is relatively new, laws in this particular area are still evolving. However, Uber does have up to $1 million in insurance coverage for passengers who are injured, but their insurance may be secondary to the Uber driver’s personal insurance. Moreover if the accident is determined to have been caused by another driver, his or her insurance company would cover the damages. Our experienced Rhode Island car accident lawyers here at d’Oliveira & Associates can help you better understand your legal rights and options in such cases. For a free (no-obligation) case evaluation, call us toll-free at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form online.

Author Photo

Paul d’Oliveira

Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.

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