Documenting the Scene of an Uber or Lyft Accident
Many people utilize the services of Uber and Lyft for transportation daily in New Jersey, but the drivers of rideshare services are not immune to automobile accidents. Documentation is imperative, making it easier to receive compensation for any damages in an accident. Having a team on your side that is dedicated to helping you recuperate from the financial hardships of an Uber or Lyft accident is paramount.
Documenting the accident is critical in helping you when you file a claim. You need to collect vital information to make filing a claim easier.
Documenting the Accident
It is never good to be caught off guard in an Uber or Lyft accident. Following these steps can help you successfully document the accident scene and provide decisive information for your rideshare accident attorney.
Call Law Enforcement
In New Jersey, property damages over $500 in an auto accident must be reported. It is difficult to assess the damage to yourself and your personal property in an accident. Even minor accidents can produce significant repair bills, so it is imperative to contact the police.
Having a law enforcement officer on the scene protects your legal rights, allowing you to document the accident with an official report.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you do not feel injured initially when you are the victim of an Uber or Lyft accident, it is best to seek medical attention following an accident. Medical documentation may protect you legally. Symptoms of some injuries in an accident surface days later and lead to lingering pain.
Take Photos
A picture can be worth a thousand words. If you can, take photos of the accident, including all the automobiles involved, road conditions, injuries to yourself, and any other sources that may support your claim.
Most people have quick access to cameras on their phones, which will also document the date and time of the incident. This information can be used by the insurance companies and the team helping you should you file a claim.
Collect Personal Information
Collecting personal information from the Uber or Lyft driver, witnesses, and anyone else involved in the accident is critical. You should record the following:
- Name and phone number of the Uber or Lyft driver, any other drivers involved, and any witnesses to the accident
- Document the rideshare driver’s insurance information and the insurance details from the rideshare company. Snap a picture of their coverage if the driver permits it.
- Collect insurance information for any other drivers involved in the accident. Once again, take a picture of their insurance card or policy if possible.
- Vehicle information, including license plate number, make and model of the automobiles involved
- If possible, any video documentation a witness may have recorded
Report the Accident
Report the accident immediately to insurance companies. Because pinpointing insurance coverage can get complicated when Uber or Lyft drivers are involved in an accident, it is always best to seek the help of a rideshare accident attorney who understands how insurance coverage works under the law.
Preparing You After an Uber or Lyft Accident
Knowing how to protect yourself is critical when filing a claim in an Uber or Lyft accident. The benefit of working with the professional practice of Brady Reilly & Cardoso, LLC is that you will never be unprepared when documenting an accident because we understand the complexity of rideshare accidents. We have a history of outstanding results.
Our years of experience allow us to specialize in documentation and extraordinary preparation for our clients.