What Happens If You Are In An Accident As A Rideshare Passenger in Pennsylvania?
The rise in popularity of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have raised significant questions about customer safety. Uber and Lyft are increasing their presence around the globe, as riders take advantage of this modern day convenience. With the number of Rideshare drivers increasing, the number of accidents are increasing as well. If you are involved in a car wreck with an Uber, Lyft or any rideshare driver, you should know what your legal options are. This could include compensation by the driver and the rideshare company.
General Safety Tips When Using Any Rideshare Company
It’s wise to remain alert when ordering a rideshare vehicle. Remember that you are accepting a ride from someone you don’t know, so keep these important safety tips in mind:
- Stay inside until your rideshare driver arrives.
- Once the rideshare arrives, passengers should make certain the license plate of the car matches the information in the app. If it does not match, do not get inside the vehicle.
- Share your trip. Once you get in the vehicle, let a friend or loved one know where you are going. You can usually share this information through the app.
Check your driver’s rating. Both Uber and Lyft monitor drivers’ ratings and keep them viewable for riders to see. Always double-check that your driver has prior experience and a rating you are comfortable with. - Keep your personal information private. There’s no harm in small talk with your driver but avoid sharing personal information.
- Sit in the back seat. Passengers are always safer in the back seat if a car accident occurs. Sitting in the back seat gives you and the driver some space and allows you to safely exit the car from either side.
- Follow your instincts. If you ever feel you are in an unsafe situation, use your phone to call 911. Or use the emergency button in your ridesharing app. This in-app button will send your location information to the dispatcher, which will aid in getting you help more quickly.
If You Are Reaching This Page Because You Have Been Involved In An Accident, Here Are The Things You Need To Do Immediately:
- Report the accident. You should report a rideshare accident by calling 911 immediately. After you have called the police, report the incident to the rideshare company. You can do this through the app.
- Gather as much information as possible. Write down the names of the other people involved in the accident: drivers, injured parties, and witnesses. You will also need contact details for these people. Make sure to get the rideshare driver and other driver’s insurance information as well.
- Seek medical advice. Get a medical exam immediately after the accident, and a follow-up if delayed onset symptoms develop. If you don’t, the insurance company is likely to claim that your injuries didn’t occur until after the accident. Keep any medical treatment records. In an accident claim, these records are vital for you to receive the compensation you deserve.
- Refuse Any Premature Settlement Offers. After a serious accident, you are likely to be in shock, emotionally distraught, and mentally cloudy. The opposing party will take advantage of this if they can. Once you accept a settlement, it will be almost impossible to back out later
- Contact an accident/personal injury lawyer. A lawyer for an Uber or Lyft accident will likely be able to negotiate a fair and generous settlement for you. More than anyone else, your lawyer will know what to do in a rideshare accident.
If you have been in an accident involving an Uber, Lyft, or any rideshare driver, make sure you have a knowledgeable personal injury attorney on your side. Contact the experienced attorneys at Gay and Chacker to fight for you and your loved ones today! Take advantage of our free consultation by calling (215) 567-7955 or by using our contact form.
