Rideshare Injuries: 5 Steps to Take After the Accident

Ride sharing has become commonplace among people who seek public transportation, but along with this new ability to get rides, comes the added issue of what to do when car accidents take place. If you're a rideshare customer and have been involved in an accident, follow the proper steps after an accident to ensure you are properly protected.

The first steps to take may vary from a traditional car accident where you're behind the wheel or in another type of public transportation like bus. Understanding these differences will help you to move forward with a personal injury case and receive possible compensation for damages.

1. Gather App & Ride Data

When compared to traditional taxis, ride sharing apps have the added benefit of tracking every single trip taken. So, after a car accident, the data from your ride may be an important part of any case or settlement you seek out.

Obtain the data from either the app itself or through the official website of the company. The data will give the details of the trip, show the precise location where the accident occurred, and provide all of the driver information. The driver information is essential, especially if the driver you rode with is at fault for the accident. Through this information, further research may indicate if there have been other driving incidents in the past.

2. Collect Dash Cam Footage

Many ride share drivers use dash cams for their own protection and surveillance. The footage may provide real-time video of the accident and supplemental evidence for your case. Contact the local police department or your lawyer and inquire about obtaining the footage. A lawyer would provide the proper steps to get the footage and ensure you have full use for any impending legal case.

The footage itself could be invaluable if it shows which driver is at fault and liable for any injuries during the crash.

3. Follow-Up With Medical Professionals

In the moments following the crash, one of the first steps will likely be a visit to the emergency room for any medical treatment to your injuries. Along with the emergency room visit, you should make an appointment with your primary care provider for a check-up.

A primary care provider will know your medical history, track any changes the injuries have caused, and refer you to different medical professionals. For example, for leg injuries, your physician may refer you to a physical therapist. All of your medical appointments are important to the case and further showcase the pain and suffering caused by the car accident.

4. Obtain a Police Report

Obtain the official police report after the accident. The report will include details, witness statements, and more information about the cause of the crash. The report acts as the official word of the matter and is another document to showcase the liable party in a personal injury case.

Physical police reports are normally obtained in person for a small fee. Digital reports are also available, but vary depending on the location where the accident took place. Once you have the report, you can make copies or digital scans to have for your own safe keeping.

5. Seek Legal Advice

Ride-sharing car accidents are a relatively new territory. Drivers are often independent contractors and freelance workers, but also represent larger rideshare companies. Acquire legal help as soon as possible to know which direction the case will go, who should be held liable, and any settlement options which may come into play.

An experienced lawyer will guide you through these steps and help you obtain any other information as needed. Personal injury lawyers have the knowledge to understand exactly how the various rideshare programs work and the best way to move forward with a possible injury case.

For more information on personal injury lawyers, contact our professionals at Frank W. Thompson Attorney At Law Erwin Thompson Faillers. We have extensive experience, especially when it comes to representing victims in auto accidents.