Ride-sharing services have revolutionized the way we travel—offering convenience and flexibility. However, accidents can happen, even when using these services. If you find yourself in a ride-share vehicle involved in an accident in Pennsylvania, it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities. This blog post aims to provide you with the information needed to navigate the situation calmly and confidently.
7 Tips if You Are Involved in a Ride-Share-Related Accident
- Ensure Safety First
In any accident, the safety of all parties involved is paramount. Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary. This includes moving over to the side of the road to minimize any potential damage.
- Gather Information
After ensuring that everyone is safe, gather relevant information about the accident. This includes:
- Driver’s information: Make note of the name, contact details, and driver’s license number of the ride-sharing driver as well as the information of any other drivers involved.
- Vehicle details: Document the make, model, license plate number, and any visible damage to the ride-sharing car and other vehicles involved.
- Witnesses: If there are any witnesses to the accident, collect their names and contact information.
- Accident scene: Take photos of the accident scene, damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any other relevant details. These visual records can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Contact Law Enforcement & Report the Accident
In Pennsylvania, it’s important to contact law enforcement to report the accident, particularly if there are injuries, fatalities, or substantial property damage. A police report will provide an official account of the accident, which can be valuable when dealing with insurance companies or legal matters. Be honest when speaking to law enforcement and avoid assigning blame, apologizing, or admitting blame.
- Notify the Ride-Sharing Company
Inform the ride-sharing company (e.g., Uber, Lyft) about the accident as soon as possible. They can guide you on next steps and may assist in communication between you, the driver, and insurance companies.
- Understand Insurance Coverage
Determining liability in a rideshare accident can be complicated due to the numerous parties involved. Typically, the at-fault driver is responsible for any damages. However, if the rideshare driver is at fault, the rideshare company’s insurance policy may cover the passenger’s damages, depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. If the driver is not logged into the rideshare app or awaiting a ride request when the accident occurs, their personal insurance may be responsible for covering the damages.
- Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some injuries may not be apparent right away. It’s wise to seek medical attention after any accident, no matter how minor you think your injuries are. Prompt medical evaluation will not only ensure your well-being but also create a medical record that can be useful for insurance claims or legal proceedings.
- Consult Legal Counsel
If the accident results in significant injuries, complex liability issues, or disputes with insurance companies, it’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney experienced in handling ride-sharing accidents in Pennsylvania. An attorney can help protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation if you’re entitled to it.
At Luxenberg Garbett Kelly George, we know that getting into an accident while in a ride-sharing car can be a stressful experience, but knowing your rights and following these steps can help you navigate the situation more effectively. Our seasoned attorneys can help you gather the necessary documentation, coordinate with insurance, and if necessary represent you in court for your rideshare accident personal injury claim.
Call our team today at (724) 658-8535 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation.
