Rideshare services provided by Uber and Lyft have become one of the most popular ways to get around Nevada, especially in metropolitan areas such as the Las Vegas Strip. If you get involved in an Uber or Lyft accident as a passenger, it can be difficult to understand your legal rights.
Know that you are eligible for financial compensation from one or more parties for any injuries that you suffered as a passenger. Contact a Las Vegas car accident lawyer at Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP if you need assistance with the claims process.
Put Safety First
As a victim of any type of car accident in Nevada, you should always put your safety first. This means assessing yourself for injuries right away. If you are riding with other passengers, check them for injuries, as well. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request emergency medical assistance.
Call the Police
Although it is technically the Uber or Lyft driver’s responsibility to report the rideshare accident to the police, you may need to make the call yourself if you notice that it is not being done by your driver. Call 911 while you are still at the scene of the accident. Even if the collision appears minor, having a police report can be valuable during an insurance claim or legal proceedings.
Gather Evidence and Information
If you can, collect evidence before you leave the scene of the accident. Write down the name of your Uber or Lyft driver, as well as witnesses, passengers and the drivers of other vehicles. Take a screenshot of your rideshare app that shows the ride details, including the driver’s name, a description of the vehicle and its license plate numbers. Take photographs at the scene, capturing any property damage, road conditions or traffic signs that seem relevant.
Seek Medical Attention
If paramedics were not called to the scene for urgent injuries, it is important to go to a doctor or hospital on your own as soon as possible. Delaying medical care could lead to a liability dispute during the insurance claims process. More importantly, a prompt medical evaluation can diagnose and treat injuries that you suffered even before you notice symptoms. Keep copies of your medical records and bills for insurance purposes.
Report the Crash to Uber or Lyft
Both rideshare companies offer multiple ways for passengers to report car accidents. Contact the company’s customer service through the app, online or over the phone to report the crash. Give them details about the accident but do not discuss your injuries until you have seen a doctor.
Uber and Lyft both have insurance coverage available for passengers who are injured during rides but oftentimes will not advise you as to how much is available to you.
Consult With an Attorney
Ridesharing accident cases in Nevada can be complicated. The process is typically not made easier by the insurance companies that represent Uber and Lyft, as they are more concerned with protecting their bottom lines than injured accident victims.
If you need assistance seeking a fair settlement for any injuries or damages that you sustained in a rideshare crash, contact an Uber accident attorney or Lyft accident attorney in Las Vegas. A lawyer can provide legal advice and services tailored to your unique situation.