Mistakes Passengers Commonly Make After a Rideshare Crash—and How to Avoid Them

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized how people get around, but any new technology comes with its own dangers and risks. Rideshare accidents can be considerably more complicated than collisions involving non-commercial drivers, and it’s important that Oklahoma victims know how to navigate this process and protect their rights.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, it’s time to talk to a local car accident lawyer who can fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Cunningham & Mears now to explore your legal options.

Mistake 1: Not seeking medical attention right away

It’s human nature to pretend you’re okay after an accident, even if you’re injured or unsure about whether or not you’re injured. We want to make the driver feel better and ease their own anxiety. However, your first priority has to be your own health—and that’s why you must seek medical attention immediately after an accident. The sooner you get checked out, the easier it is to link any injuries you may have to the accident you were just in. This also gives you the chance to start treatments right away, and some injuries demand immediate treatment for any chance at recovery.

Mistake 2: Not calling law enforcement

This mistake is incredibly common among rideshare accident victims. Rideshare drivers depend on their ability to drive for their income, and an accident report puts that in jeopardy—so it’s not uncommon for them to urge riders not to call 911 or to offer to address accident-related costs out-of-pocket. But this only benefits them and harms you. An accident report is critical because it documents the time, date, and location of the accident, as well as all involved parties and potential sources of liability. Call the police, report the accident, and get a copy of the accident report for your own records.

Mistake 3: Assuming rideshare insurance will cover everything

Perhaps one of the most confusing parts of a rideshare accident is figuring out who pays for what. Both Uber and Lyft carry $1 million in liability insurance for accidents occurring when a driver is on a trip, but getting insurers to pay it out can be challenging. This is even harder if the company or driver disputes which stage of the trip they were in at the time of the crash. Insurance coverage varies, depending on whether the driver was logged into the app, logged in and waiting for a ride, or actually driving with a customer.

As you may imagine, the company may use misunderstandings like this to their advantage, hoping that passengers will ultimately give up on seeking compensation. That’s why it’s so important to keep track of everything—screenshots showing the ride and your location, any communication from the driver, proof of where you were during the collision, and medical records. This information may be harder to access once an accident is reported to Uber or Lyft, so take screenshots and keep copies of emails immediately.

Mistake 4: Leaving without documenting the scene

If being in an accident makes you want to get away from the scene as quickly as possible, you’re not alone. Passengers often feel embarrassed, exposed, or intimidated if their driver is aggressive. However, leaving without documenting the scene of the crash is a huge mistake. That evidence will be gone the next time you’re back in the area, so this is your one and only chance to document what happened. Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, and the accident location. Get proof of your ride by screenshotting your ride in the app, including the driver’s name and picture. Keep names and phone numbers for all witnesses and involved parties. It only takes a few minutes, but it can help your case.

Mistake 5: Giving recorded statements too quickly

Don’t be surprised if you start getting calls from insurance companies after a rideshare accident in Oklahoma. Insurance adjusters are very good at appearing concerned and even upset about your injuries, but their only goal is to minimize how much their company pays you. You are generally under no obligation to give a recorded statement to the rideshare’s insurance company. Before you give them your side of the story, share details about your medical bills, or otherwise discuss the accident, make sure you talk to a car accident attorney.

Mistake 6: Accepting a settlement too quickly

The longer insurance companies wait to settle an accident claim, the more expensive it can get—and they know this. See, waiting gives victims more time to get a better understanding of their injuries, more accurately estimate the costs associated with their injuries, and get information on any complications or side effects that may increase the value of their claim. This is why you shouldn’t settle too quickly, and you shouldn’t just accept the amount the insurance company offers you upfront. That amount is their starting point, and it might be less than you actually deserve. Instead, take your time, figure out how much you’ll lose in medical expenses and lost wages, and discuss your case with a car accident lawyer.

Fight for compensation after a rideshare accident with Cunningham & Mears

The team at Cunningham & Mears is committed to helping you pursue the compensation you’re owed. Ready to discuss your case? Give us a call or contact us online to get started.