What Should I Do if I’m in an Uber of Lyft Accident?

Chicago car accident lawyers explain how to file a claim & more

No one plans on getting into a car accident when they order an Uber or a Lyft. Unfortunately, rideshare accidents happen far more often than many people might realize. When they do, it’s important for anyone injured in an Uber or Lyft accident to know what to do to protect their rights and their well-being.

Our experienced Chicago rideshare accident attorneys at Keating Law Offices, P.C. thoroughly understand how the legal system works when it comes to these types of accidents. That’s because we have years of experience dealing with complicated car accident claims in Chicago and throughout Cook County.

What to do after an Uber or Lyft accident

1. Seek Medical Attention

One of the first things to do if you’re injured in a rideshare crash involving a company like Lyft or Uber is to seek medical attention. Ambulance services and first responders can help stabilize your medical condition and transport you to the right place for additional treatment. Even if you don’t think you’re severely injured, some injuries take hours and even days to surface. That’s why it’s critical that you have a medical professional examine you right away.

2. Call The Police

Call 911 or have someone call the police and ask that a police officer come to the scene to complete a report. You should report to the police what happened and that you are injured and need medical attention. Once the police arrive at the scene, an investigating officer typically ask the people involved in a crash what happened and how the crash occurred.

3. Gather Personal Information

Obtain the names and contact information (home address, phone number) from anyone else involved in your rideshare accident. Feel free to provide the same information to others involved in your accident. However, keep your comments brief. Anything you say could be used as evidence to deny your accident claim.

4. Talk To Witnesses

If someone saw your rideshare accident, make sure you get the witness’ full name, address and phone number. Even if you see an officer writing down someone’s information, that information might get lost in the shuffle and commotion after a crash. Be sure you or someone you trust provides you with a way of contacting the people who can support your case.

5. Get an Accident Report

The police accident report is a key piece of evidence in any rideshare accident claim because it provides an official, third-party account of the crash. Written by the investigating officer at the scene, the report typically includes important details such as the time and location of the crash, contact information for everyone involved, witness statements, the officer’s observations, and any citations issued.

This documentation can help establish what happened and who was at fault, which is especially valuable if there’s a dispute later on. In Chicago, you can request a copy of your accident report through the Illinois State Police or the local police department that handled the crash. Reports are usually available online, by mail, or in person. There’s often a small fee. It’s best to request the report as soon as possible since processing times can vary.

6. Call A Lawyer

As soon as you’re able, it’s important to speak to an attorney before talking to anyone from an insurance company. The Uber and Lyft accident attorneys at Keating Law Offices are available around the clock for a free consultation. Our receptionists and online chat operators are available 24/7. An attorney can inform you of your options, rather than push you into saying something to an insurance company that jeopardizes your rights and ability to recover for your injuries.

Keep in mind that even the friendliest and well-intentioned insurance representatives from an at-fault party’s insurance company are paid and employed by an insurance company, not you. Publicly-traded insurance companies have a goal of bringing as much money into the company in the form of premiums and paying out as little money as possible in the form of settlements. That’s why most insurance companies do anything they can to pay you as little as possible after your rideshare accident.

In contrast, our attorneys put your best interests first at all times. We’re also not intimidated by insurance companies. We know the tricks they often try to avoid paying injury victims. We know how to deal with them and negotiate effectively with insurance companies. If they refuse cooperate, we will not hesitate to file a ridesharing accident lawsuit on your behalf.

How long do you have to report an accident and file a claim?

In Illinois, you must report a rideshare accident to the police right away if it involves injury, death, or more than $1,500 in property damage. For insurance claims, it’s best to act quickly so you don’t lose valuable evidence. If you plan to file a lawsuit, the statute of limitations generally gives you two years from the date of the crash. Missing that deadline can bar you from seeking compensation, which is why talking to a Chicago lawyer early on is so important.

Our Lyft and Uber accident attorneys at Keating Law Offices, P.C., have recovered millions of dollars for our clients. Get the help you deserve after your rideshare accident. Contact our law firm and schedule your free, confidential consultation today. One of our experienced Chicago Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can answer your questions, evaluate your case and explain your options.