Were you a passenger in a Rideshare car accident?
Every year, there are hundreds of rideshare accident injuries in Colorado. Sadly, few know which actions to take after being involved in a crash.
If you are injured while using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, taking the proper steps afterward can help with your personal injury case. To maximize your odds of winning a settlement, we’ve compiled this step-by-step guide.
Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident Injury in Colorado
If the car is still running, ask your driver to pull over to the shoulder, away from the flow of traffic. After stopping, request that they turn on their hazard lights to make the car more visible. If the car is inoperable, it's best to turn on the hazards and stay put. It's never safe to exit a vehicle on a busy roadway.
All accidents should be reported to the police. When you call 911, an officer will be sent to the scene. You can also request an ambulance or fire truck for severe injuries or a blocked roadway.
Don't leave the accident scene unless you need immediate medical attention. Leaving before speaking to an officer can negatively impact your ability to receive compensation from your personal injury claim.
If you have severe injuries, take an ambulance to the hospital. Although it's ideal to speak with an officer if you can, receiving immediate care is much more important. For minor injuries, speak with the paramedic; they'll let you know whether you require hospitalization or should see a doctor after talking to the officer.
When the officer arrives, they'll request your statement. Tell them what you remember from the crash. Be sure not to admit fault while giving your statement.
Take some photos of the crash before cleanup crews arrive. These photos can help your lawyer and other experts determine who caused the crash.
You need the names and insurance information of everyone involved in the accident.
Even if you don't feel injured, see a doctor. Many rideshare accident injuries aren't immediately apparent. For example, whiplash causes mild discomfort initially, but it gradually worsens over time. Seeking medical attention also ensures that your injuries and treatment costs are fully documented. This documentation will prove useful if you file a personal injury claim.
If you believe your accident was caused by negligence, you have the right to file a personal injury claim. Call a Colorado rideshare accident injury attorney as soon as possible to get your case started.
Shortly after the accident, you will receive a call or email from the at-fault party's insurance company. Don't respond to any information requests until your lawyer has directed you to do so.
Mistakes to Avoid After Being Involved in a Rideshare Accident
- Admit fault: It's unlikely that a passenger will be at fault for an accident. However, admitting to certain behaviors, like aggressively arguing with the driver, can make passengers partially liable.
- Refuse medical treatment: Refusing medical treatment after a crash can imply that you aren't injured. If you decide to file a claim, your refusal may be used against you.
- Post about the accident on social media: Posting on social media can negatively affect your personal injury claim. Posts that show you being physically active can be used as evidence that injuries aren't as severe as you claim.
Avoiding these common pitfalls is easy if you hire a rideshare accident injury attorney. A good lawyer will advise against actions that could jeopardize future compensation.
Were You Injured in a Rideshare Accident in Colorado?
If you suffered a rideshare accident injury in Colorado, McDivitt Law can help you with a personal injury claim. Our rideshare accident injury attorneys have decades of experience representing severely injured accident victims. They know how to make insurance companies pay up. Click the button below to schedule your free consultation today.