The short answer is YES. If you have been involved in a car accident while passenger in a ride share vehicle, and you have sustained serious injuries, then you do have several claim options.
If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft related accident, then it is important to follow these steps.
- The first thing you should do after an auto accident is check on yourself and other passengers to see if they are okay. If you or your fellow passengers are injured, you should seek medical care as soon as possible. Refusing medical treatment from the EMS personnel will be documented and will likely be used against you if you file a claim. Even if you just “feel a little sore” you should go get checked out to make sure that there is not something more serious in play.
- Secondly you need to call the police or be sure that your Uber or Lyft driver is calling the police. It is important that an incident report is filed to document your claim. I know it is inconvenient, but if you don’t document the accident and your symptoms increase, the insurer will try to argue that you were not injured or dispute liability.
- It is important to gather as much evidence as possible. This can be anything from photos of the scene, to witness statements, and their information (name and phone number). Even a photograph of a witnesses I.D. can be enough information to help with your claim. It may seem awkward but be sure to take photos of the entire scene or if unable to do so have a friend or family member do it for you.
- Obtain a copy of the incident report. The incident report that the police file will state everything about the drivers involved, and it will also name the “at fault” or contributing party. This is crucial in determining how to handle your claim. Ask the officer for a copy of the completed report (FR-10) or get someone to take a photo of it at the scene. You have every right to get a copy so do it now before you leave the scene.
- Finally, if you are seriously injured or if your symptoms worsen over the following couple days, you want to be sure to contact your local rideshare attorney. Even if you are not sure if you have a claim, an attorney can help you navigate the issues and give advice on how to proceed-generally for a free initial consultation.
Remember, insurance adjusters are trained and get paid to settle claims. They will attempt to deceive you about the value of your claim and offer you as little as possible. In many cases, they will offer a quick settlement in exchange for a release of all claims that bars you from ever reopening a claim. I can’t tell you how many people have come through my doors seeking help after they have signed their rights away, and we cannot help them.
The experienced Uber and Lyft accident attorneys at Hammack Law Firm know the liability issues, insurance coverage, injuries and damages, and how to humanize your claim and the effect your injury has had on your life in order to determine a reasonable value for your case.
It is important to follow the steps above, as they all play a part in building your claim.
Having the right attorney can make the difference!
For a free legal consultation, call 864-740-8653
An experienced attorney who has handled rideshare cases with Uber and Lyft will understand best how to handle your case. In the state of South Carolina, the minimum policy limits for a personal vehicle is $25K in bodily injury liability coverage. However, since the ride involves a commercial company, any damages that exceed that limit can be covered by the rideshare company’s policy. Uber and Lyft carry third party liability insurance which can cover up to $1 million in both property damage and personal injuries.
If you or a loved one have been injured due to an Uber or Lyft driver or third party’s negligence, you should not have to pay for property damage, medical bills, and lost income out of your own pocket. Attorney Paul Hammack and his team will help you pursue justice and fair compensation. Call 864-326-3333 to schedule a free initial consultation with a rideshare accident attorney in Greenville.
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Hammack Law Firm’s attorneys have over 40 years’ experience as trial attorneys. We have worked for insurance companies for many of those years so we have the knowledge and expertise to get the most out of your workers’ compensation or personal injury claim. Unlike the high-volume law firms, Paul Hammack is not afraid of taking a case to trial. If you are hurt on the job or by someone else’s negligence, we want to help. Better call Paul!
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