Protecting Your Rights After a Rideshare Accident

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become essential for many people in Michigan, offering convenience and a reliable way to get around. However, when an accident happens during one of these rides, the situation can become complicated quickly. Knowing what to do after a rideshare accident can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing compensation for your injuries.

Take Immediate Steps After the Accident

Your actions immediately following a rideshare accident are crucial. First, check for injuries and seek medical attention if needed. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not present symptoms right away. A medical evaluation can reveal hidden injuries and create a record linking them to the accident.

Next, contact the police. A police report serves as an official record of the incident and can be useful when filing a claim. Make sure to inform the responding officer that the accident involved a rideshare vehicle. Gather as much information as possible at the scene. Take photos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Exchange contact details with all parties involved, including the rideshare driver, other drivers, and any witnesses.

Understand Liability in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents differ from standard car accidents because of the multiple parties involved. Liability can fall on different parties depending on the circumstances of the accident.

The rideshare driver may be at fault, or another driver on the road could bear responsibility. In some cases, poor vehicle maintenance or road conditions might contribute to the accident. Rideshare companies provide insurance coverage, but the extent of that coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

If the rideshare app was active and the driver was waiting for a ride request, limited coverage applies. If the driver was on the way to pick up a passenger or already had one in the vehicle, the rideshare company’s higher liability coverage is in effect. Understanding these nuances is important when pursuing compensation.

Document Everything Thoroughly

Thorough documentation can strengthen your claim. Keep a detailed record of all medical visits, treatments, and any expenses related to the accident. Save all correspondence with insurance companies and rideshare services. If you are unable to work due to your injuries, track any lost wages.

Additionally, document how the accident has impacted your daily life. This can include pain, reduced mobility, or emotional distress. These details can help demonstrate the full extent of your damages when negotiating a settlement.

Notify the Rideshare Company

After the accident, notify the rideshare company through their app or customer service channels. Most rideshare services have accident reporting processes in place. Reporting the accident ensures that the company’s insurance providers are aware of the incident, which is essential for pursuing a claim.

Avoid providing too many details or accepting blame when communicating with the rideshare company. Stick to the facts and consult with a personal injury attorney before agreeing to any settlement offers.

Be Cautious with Insurance Adjusters

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and adjusters may contact you soon after the accident. Be cautious about what you say, as anything you share could be used to undermine your claim. Politely decline to provide a recorded statement without legal representation.

An experienced personal injury attorney can handle communications with insurance adjusters on your behalf. They can negotiate for fair compensation and ensure that you do not accept an offer that undervalues your case.

Understand Michigan’s No-Fault Laws

Michigan operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning your own insurance policy may cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. However, rideshare accidents can sometimes bypass the no-fault system, particularly when serious injuries occur. This allows victims to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party.

Understanding when and how to step outside the no-fault system can be complex. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help clarify your options and guide you through the legal process.

Seek Legal Guidance Early

Rideshare accident cases can be challenging due to the involvement of multiple insurance policies and parties. Legal guidance can ensure your rights are protected from the start. A personal injury attorney can help gather evidence, assess liability, and build a strong case for compensation.

Protect Your Future by Contact a Personal Injury Attorney 

Smith & Johnson has extensive experience handling rideshare accident cases in Michigan. Our team understands the complexities of these claims and is dedicated to fighting for the compensation our clients deserve. If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, contact us for a free consultation.
Recovering from a rideshare accident can be physically and emotionally taxing. By taking the right steps and seeking legal guidance, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of securing fair compensation. Smith & Johnson is here to support you every step of the way. Contact our team today to learn more about how we can help with your case.