What Should I Do if I’m in a Rideshare 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 a ridesharing 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 a ridesharing accident
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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.
Our 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 rideshare accident lawyers can answer your questions, evaluate your case and explain your options.
