Ride-sharing services have become popular over the last few years. In fact, more than a third of Americans have used a rideshare service like Lyft. But while they have added some convenience to public transportation, like other cars, they have also caused accidents. What happens when you are hit by a Lyft driver and sustain injuries? No doubt, you ought to get compensated. But how do you go about it? Here are some of the steps you will need to take if this happens to you.
Check for Injuries
Your health should be your priority. You will need to check yourself or any passengers you may have had in the car. Contact an ambulance so that healthcare professionals can examine you. Treating injuries when they happen increases the chances of a quick recovery. Never assume you are fine. For instance, a head injury can affect your mental health. Early treatment can prevent problems with the line. Besides that, these medical reports will be part of the evidence needed to show that you suffered injuries from the accident caused by the Lyft driver.
Call the Police
Do not assume that the accident is minor and choose not to involve the police. This is also a part of building your case. The police report will be part of the evidence needed to pursue compensation. A Lyft accident is just like any other accident. The police will come and write an unbiased report detailing the party at fault.
Collect Evidence
Another important step is collecting the evidence needed. Take photos of the accident scene and your injuries. You will also need to collect witness statements and contacts, and preferably, a video of any damage caused to your vehicle. This step is crucial because it documents the extent of the damage caused by the accident.
Exchange Contact Information With the Lyft Driver
Get the driver’s name, rideshare information, address, and insurance information. You will be dealing with the driver’s personal insurance company. So you have to ensure you have the correct information to pursue a settlement.
Be Careful When Sharing Information
Even as you report the accident or share contact details with the other driver, be careful about how much you reveal. Discussing details can be risky. You might slip up and say something that could be used against you. It is not uncommon for insurance companies to twist words in order to pay a lower settlement. Limit anything you say unless you are talking to an attorney.
Hire a Lawyer
It is advisable to hire an attorney to represent you. With Lyft accidents being common, you can be sure you will find a lawyer that has handled such cases before. Insurance claims are not always easy to deal with. They can be intimidating or use some tricks to give you a lower settlement than what you deserve. The benefits of hiring a lawyer are:
- Get someone else to investigate the case.
- Manage all communication related to the case
- Interview witnesses
- Collect the evidence needed
- Deal with the insurance company
- Negotiate for a fair settlement on your behalf
Can You Sue Lyft
This is another reason you need an attorney. Rideshare companies like Lyft work with independent contractors. These are the drivers working for them. Trying to go against Lyft company will be a waste of time. The Lyft driver that hit you has personal insurance. That is the company that ought to compensate you for the damage. An attorney will ensure you do not make such mistakes that can waste your time.
The steps you take after getting hit by a Lyft driver are similar to the steps you will take after any other accident. The important thing is to have legal representation to increase the possibility of winning the case.
