Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular in Ohio as they have throughout the country. However, with the rise of these services comes the unfortunate reality of more accidents involving rideshare vehicles. While many of these ideas hold true for accidents involving all vehicles, the involvement of a rideshare vehicle can change the approach. If you find yourself injured in a rideshare accident, understanding your legal rights and the necessary steps to take is crucial.
Continue reading for a comprehensive guide from our vehicle accident attorney Hamilton Ohio to help you navigate this challenging situation.
3 Immediate Steps to Take After the Accident
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety are paramount. If you’re injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a professional as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Collect Information
Obtain contact and insurance details from all parties involved, including the rideshare driver. It’s important to get the Uber or Lyft driver’s personal insurance information, even if they claim that the rideshare company covers it.
Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Capture images from multiple angles and distances. Take photos of the vehicles with the license plates included in the photographs.
3. Report the Accident
Notify the police and file an accident report. This documentation will be crucial for any legal or insurance claims.
Report the incident to the rideshare company. Both Uber and Lyft have mechanisms for reporting accidents, and it’s important to utilize these channels.
Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage
Rideshare companies provide varying levels of insurance coverage based on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:
Period 1: Waiting for a Ride Request
This period starts when the driver has logged into the app and is waiting for a ride request. If an accident occurs during this time, a rideshare company liability policy may provide coverage for bodily injury and property damage. Here’s the wrinkle: this coverage may very well be secondary to the driver’s personal insurance, which could need to be exhausted first.
Period 2: En Route to Pick Up a Passenger
Once the driver has accepted a ride request and is on the way to pick up a passenger, the rideshare company’s liability insurance coverage may increase. Again, depending on the driver’s relationship with the rideshare company, you should remain concerned about the personal liability insurance coverage.
Period 3: Passenger Onboard
Once a rideshare customer is in the vehicle, the rideshare company’s liability coverage may increase. Furthermore, that policy may provide for uninsured-underinsured motorist coverage. You should continue to wonder whether the driver’s personal policy coverages apply.
Legal Considerations and Seeking Compensation
Navigating the legal complexities following a rideshare accident can be challenging. Here are some key points to consider:
Determine Liability
Establishing who is at fault in a rideshare accident can be complex. It could be the rideshare driver, another driver, or even a combination of parties. Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule, which means compensation can be adjusted based on the level of fault attributed to each party.
Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
Given the complexities of rideshare accident cases, consulting with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in rideshare accidents is advisable. They can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Insurance Claims
Filing insurance claims in rideshare accidents can involve multiple policies and parties. An experienced lawyer can help streamline this process and ensure that all applicable coverage is pursued.
Consult Our Vehicle Accident Attorney in Hamilton, Ohio for Experienced Guidance After a Rideshare Accident
Being involved in a rideshare accident in Ohio can be a traumatic experience, but knowing the right steps to take can help protect your health and legal rights. Collecting thorough documentation, understanding the insurance coverage provided by rideshare companies, and seeking professional legal assistance are crucial in navigating the aftermath of such accidents. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, reach out to a vehicle accident attorney Hamilton, Ohio to discuss your case and explore your options for compensation.
We can be reached at 513-868-2731, ext. 219 or visit us at https://richardsinjuryfirm.com.
