Our Kansas City Rideshare Accident Lawyers Can Protect Your Rights
Riding in an Uber should be a safe and easy experience, but accidents can turn a simple trip into a traumatic event. As a passenger, being in an accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. You might be worried about your injuries, medical bills, and how to hold someone accountable. It’s important to know that you have rights and options to help you through this difficult time. The skilled Kansas City rideshare lawyers at Peterson & Associates can guide you through the steps you need to take to protect yourself and seek the compensation you deserve after an Uber accident.
Essential Steps to Take After an Uber Accident
Ridesharing services such as Uber offer convenience and flexibility, but like any other mode of transportation, they are not immune to accidents. If you are a passenger in an Uber who gets into an accident, knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety, protecting your legal rights, and facilitating any potential claims.
It’s essential to take the following steps after an Uber car accident if you are a passenger involved in a crash.
Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
After an accident, one of the most important things to do is to ensure your safety and that of others involved. Here's what you should do:
- Stay calm. An Uber accident can be shocking and unexpected. It’s important to stay calm so you can think clearly and act efficiently.
- Check for injuries. Assess yourself and other passengers for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance. Even if you feel your injuries are minor, seeking medical attention is vital since some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or whiplash, may not appear immediately.
- Move to safety. If the vehicle is in a dangerous location, such as the middle of the road, and it is safe to do so, move to a safer area away from traffic, where another accident could occur.
Call the Authorities
It’s essential to contact the authorities and report the accident immediately. A police report can be invaluable for both insurance claims and legal purposes, providing an official record of the incident. When reporting the accident, be sure to provide your exact location and detailed information about the incident. When the police arrive, give them a clear and accurate account of what happened. Be honest and avoid speculating or making assumptions about the details or cause of the accident. This ensures that the police report is as precise and helpful as possible for any subsequent investigations or claims.
Document the Accident Scene
Gathering evidence at the scene of the Uber accident is crucial. This information can support your claim and help determine liability. Some tips for collecting evidence at the scene include:
- Take photos. Use your smartphone to take clear photos or videos of damage to all vehicles involved, including your Uber and license plates of all vehicles. Document the accident location, including street signs, traffic signals, and any relevant road conditions. You should also take photos of any debris or objects that may have contributed to the accident, such as potholes or construction barriers.
- Note your injuries. Take photos of any visible injuries you or other passengers have sustained. Preserve clothing or items that may have been damaged in the crash as well.
- Capture details. Note any additional relevant details, such as weather conditions, time of day, and nearby witnesses.
Gather Insurance and Contact Information
Exchange information with all parties involved in the accident, including your Uber driver and any other drivers or passengers. Be sure to obtain:
- Uber driver's information. Obtain the Uber driver's name, contact number, and insurance details. Also, note the make and model of the Uber vehicle and the license plate number. This information should also be in your app, but it is also a good idea to obtain it at the scene.
- Other drivers and passengers. Collect names, phone numbers, and insurance information from other drivers and passengers involved in the accident.
- Witnesses. If there are any witnesses to the Uber crash, ask for their contact information. Their statements could be helpful if there are disputes about what happened.
Report the Accident to Uber
Uber requires that all accidents involving their drivers be reported. Here's how you can do it:
- Use the Uber app. Open the Uber app or visit their website and navigate to the “Rider Safety” section.
- Report the incident. You will need to log in to share details about the accident. Once you are logged in, follow the prompts to report the accident. Provide all relevant details, including any injuries and damage to the vehicles.
- Follow up. Uber may contact you for additional information. Be prepared to provide any requested details to assist with their investigation. Keep information about the crash in an accessible location so you can refer to it as needed.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintaining organized records of all information related to the Kansas City Uber accident is essential. You will want to do the following:
- Keep copies of the police report, photos, and any correspondence with Uber and insurance companies.
- Retain all medical records, bills, and receipts for treatments related to the accident.
- Record dates and details of all communications with involved parties, including Uber, insurance companies, and your attorney.
Seek Medical Care
Schedule an appointment with your health care provider as soon as possible. Inform them of the accident and any symptoms you are experiencing. Keep detailed records of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to the accident. This documentation will be important for any potential personal injury claims.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, even if you were not the driver. Promptly reporting the incident allows your insurer to provide you with crucial guidance on the next steps and what to expect throughout the claims process. They can also help you understand your coverage and any potential impacts on your policy.
It’s important to avoid speaking with Uber’s insurance company or representatives until you have consulted your own lawyer. Insurance companies, including those representing rideshare services, often aim to minimize payouts and may use your statements against you. By consulting with an experienced attorney first, you ensure that your rights are protected and that you do not inadvertently jeopardize your claim. Your lawyer can advise you on how to communicate with insurance companies and can even handle these discussions on your behalf, ensuring that your interests are fully represented.
Contact Our Rideshare Accident Lawyers
If you sustained injuries or significant property damage in a rideshare accident, consulting with a rideshare accident lawyer at Peterson and Associates is crucial. Our team has extensive experience handling rideshare accident cases and can guide you through the legal process. We will work diligently to ensure you understand your rights and options, providing clear and comprehensive guidance every step of the way.
You could recover compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses such as doctor visits and hospitalizations
- Lost income from time off work
- Loss of future income earnings if the injury prevents you from returning to your job
- Pain and suffering resulting from the Uber accident.
At Peterson and Associates, we handle all communications with insurance companies and rideshare companies like Uber, taking the burden off your shoulders. Our goal is to ensure you receive the fair compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. We understand the tactics insurance companies may use to minimize payouts, and we are prepared to advocate fiercely on your behalf. By partnering with us, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your case.