Being involved in a rideshare accident as a passenger can be an overwhelming and confusing experience. However, taking the right steps immediately after the accident is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you receive proper compensation for any injuries or damages you may have sustained. The experienced attorneys at Altman Nussbaum Shunnarah will guide you through the essential steps to take as a passenger after a rideshare accident in Massachusetts and beyond.
Seek Medical Attention
Your health and well-being should be the top priority after an accident. Even if you do not feel injured, it is important to let a medical professional rule out any injury risk. Some injuries like whiplash and internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent. A medical professional can properly assess your condition and document any injuries, which will be vital for your potential insurance claim or legal case.
Report the Accident
Notify the appropriate authorities, such as the local police department or the Massachusetts State Police, about the accident. Remember there are two types of report you should keep in mind with these cases:
- Police report: Contact the police at the scene of the accident regardless of the severity. A police officer will document the accident details, including the location, time, vehicles involved, and witness statements. This report becomes critical evidence for insurance claims and potential legal actions.
- Rideshare company report: Report the accident to the rideshare company you were using (Uber, Lyft, etc.) through their app or by calling their customer service line. This step is crucial to notify them of the incident and ensure they document it in their system.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are able to do so safely, try to gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. This includes:
- Your rideshare driver’s information: Get your driver’s name, phone number, and driver’s license information.
- Information from other drivers involved: If there were other vehicles involved in the accident, try to obtain the names, license plate numbers, and insurance information of the other drivers.
- Witness information: If there were any witnesses to the accident, collect their names and contact details. Their perspective can be valuable in piecing together what happened.
- Scene details: If you are able, take pictures of the accident scene, including the damage to all vehicles involved, any visible injuries, skid marks, road signs or traffic signals, and weather conditions.
Preserving Evidence
In addition to gathering evidence at the accident scene, it is crucial to preserve any other relevant evidence, including:
- Photographs of your injuries at different stages of healing
- Clothing or personal items damaged in the accident
- Receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident
- Communication records with the rideshare company or their insurance provider
Consider Legal Counsel
While dealing with insurance companies may seem straightforward, it is often advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney who has vast experience in rideshare accidents. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and ensure that your rights are protected.
A personal injury attorney can:
- Evaluate the strength of your case and advise you on the best course of action
- Handle communication and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
- Ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages
Understanding Insurance Coverage
Rideshare companies typically provide insurance coverage for their drivers and passengers in the event of an accident. However, the specifics of coverage can vary depending on the company and the circumstances of the accident.
In Massachusetts, rideshare companies are required to carry a minimum of $1 million in liability coverage for accidents involving their drivers. This coverage applies from when a driver accepts a ride request until the ride is completed.
If the rideshare driver’s personal insurance policy provides higher coverage limits, that policy may also come into play in certain situations.
Let Our Dedicated Attorneys Help
If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident in Massachusetts, do not hesitate to contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Altman Nussbaum Shunnarah. Our dedicated professionals will fight tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
We offer free, no-obligation consultations, and our fees are contingency-based, meaning you won’t owe us anything unless we recover compensation for you. Call us today at 617-222-2222 to schedule your consultation. Your rights are our top priority, and we are here to help you handle the legal process with confidence and peace of mind.
