What Should You Do Following Uber Accidents?

Calling 911 after a rideshare crash is the first step in what you should do following Uber accidents to protect your health and legal rights. Like with traditional car accidents, you never suspect that the Uber you take to get from Point A to Point B will end up in a crash. But unfortunately, Uber accidents are a common occurrence not just here in New Jersey but throughout the country. This month, a 67-year-old Uber driver from California and his passenger were taken to the hospital for injuries after striking a power box and nearby bus bench. Cases like this lead to the common question: What should you do following Uber accidents?

In this guide, Justin Drazin, the lead attorney and mind behind UberHurtMe.com, has put together a list of helpful tips on what you should do following an Uber accident to safeguard your rights and ability to pursue compensation.

Report the Accident

Call 911 following the accident. Not only will law enforcement contain the area to ensure your safety, but they will also create a police report. The police report formally documents the accident and will include critical details, including the names of all parties involved, makes and models of the vehicles, witness statements, and date and time of the crash.

This isn’t the only report you need to file. You also need to report the Uber accident to the rideshare company itself. Whether you do this online, through the app, or over the phone, stick to the facts and use caution to avoid any mistakes when reporting the crash to Uber’s representative. Remember, they are not on your side.

While there is no set timeframe in which you need to report your rideshare crash to Uber, the sooner the better. Any delays give insurance companies a reason to deny your claim.

Document the Scene

If you’re able to, document the accident scene as best you can. Take photos and/or videos of:

Noticeable injuries
Vehicles involved, including license plates
Property damage
Weather and road conditions
Traffic signals

Be sure to capture these photos from different angles, too, as they will help paint a clear picture of the accident. Don’t worry about taking too many photos or videos. Your Uber accident attorney will determine what’s pertinent to your case and what isn’t.

Get Prompt Medical Care

Medical care is critical following Uber accidents because not every injury will be immediately noticeable. For example, common injuries such as concussions, internal bleeding, and nerve damage could take days, sometimes weeks, to fully manifest.

Furthermore, adrenaline often masks the seriousness of Uber accident injuries. Even if you feel fine, go to the hospital to get checked out. Make sure you let the doctor know you were in an accident, so they can order tests for common accident-related injuries. Once discharged, keep your medical records, copays, receipts, and test results. These documents serve as crucial evidence in your Uber accident claim.

Track Your Lost Income and Expenses

Due to the nature of Uber accident injuries, you’re likely going to have time off from work. However, even just a few weeks away from work can create a significant financial burden on you and your loved ones. During this time off, keep track of your lost income, including any side gigs you have, such as selling online or making deliveries.

In addition to tracking your lost income, be sure to keep a running list of your expenses. For example, did you have to hire someone to help with cleaning, running errands, or landscaping due to your injuries? These expenses can be considered when calculating the true value of your Uber accident claim.

Follow Medical Advice and Attend All Appointments

It’s not enough to simply seek medical care following the accident; you must also follow all the medical advice you receive and attend all appointments made. First and foremost, following a treatment plan is in your best interests so you can recover sooner. However, it is also crucial for pursuing compensation.

Failing to follow medical advice or skipping even one doctor’s appointment gives Uber’s insurance company an opportunity to claim you’re not as injured as you say you are. Even if you have a good reason for missing your appointment, such as dealing with an unexpected flood at home or family emergency, be mindful to reschedule the appointment as soon as possible and explain any gaps to your attorney.

Uber Accident FAQs

How much does Uber pay if you get into an accident?

Uber provides up to $1,500,000 in liability coverage for property damage and injuries to riders when their driver is at fault for the crash. However, many injuries sustained in Uber accidents will exceed this coverage, highlighting the importance of hiring an attorney who can advocate for the compensation you need on your behalf.

How long will my Uber accident case take?

It depends on the details of your crash. In some cases, your Uber accident case may settle in a few months. A skilled rideshare attorney will assess the details of your case so you have an idea of the timeframe.

How long do I have to file an Uber accident crash?

The statute of limitations for filing an Uber accident claim depends on where you live. In New Jersey, personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident. Missing this window can jeopardize your ability to collect compensation.

Contact Justin Drazin for Skilled and Compassionate Guidance Following an Uber Accident

Rideshares are marketed as a safe alternative, but that reality couldn’t be further from the truth. When Uber accidents occur, you’re not just dealing with injuries but with a company that prioritizes profits over safety.

That’s why hiring an impassioned personal injury lawyer to represent you is critical. Motivated to create UberHurtMe.com after his friend was injured in an Uber accident, Justin Drazin has dedicated himself to representing those who have been injured and holding Uber liable. If you were injured, don’t wait. Contact Justin Drazin today by calling 732-333-8141. He offers free consultations and is here to walk you through the process of filing a claim against this behemoth rideshare company.

Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.