How Do You Document a Rideshare Accident as a Passenger?

Rideshare accidents leave many passengers in considerable pain. Although you are a passenger in the rideshare vehicle, you shouldn’t expect your driver to take the lead on documenting the crash. Some drivers might actually pressure you not to report the accident, or the driver is too confused to properly gather necessary information. Davis & Snyder Injury Attorneys encourages all motorists to protect their rights by documenting any rideshare accident, even when you are a passenger.

Steps to Take after an Accident

Try to complete as many of the following steps as possible. We realize you might be in excruciating pain and unable to move on your own, which is okay. Put your safety first. However, if you can move after an accident, we recommend the following:

1. Check if your driver is okay. They might have suffered the brunt of the impact and need an ambulance. You can also check on the occupants of other vehicles involved.
2. Call the police to report the accident. Legally, South Carolina requires that a driver report an accident, not a passenger. However, you definitely want a police report, which the responding officer can create. We recommend calling unless your Uber/Lyft driver has already taken the initiative. Tell the police where you are located.
3. Photograph the vehicles. Use your phone to get pictures. You can zoom in on dents or scratches. Also take a picture of the license plate of both vehicles involved. That will help you when it comes time to file a claim.
4. Speak with any witnesses who hang around. Other motorists might stop to render assistance. You can ask them for contact information and what they saw. Also check if they have a dashcam, because they might have recorded the accident, which is helpful.
5. Request personal information from all drivers. Ask for their name, license number, insurance information, and phone number. It’s a mistake to assume your rideshare driver is liable for the crash. Another driver could be at fault, and you will need to negotiate compensation with their insurer.
6. Receive prompt medical care. Once you finish at the scene, you can go to the hospital for treatment. Hold onto your medical bills.
7. Avoid posting about your accident on social media. The less said, the better. As a passenger in an Uber or Lyft, you are probably not contributorily negligent for the crash. Nonetheless, you might post something which casts doubt on the severity of your injuries.

Any passenger who follows these steps will increase the strength of their legal claim. You should also seek a lawyer’s help to negotiate a settlement.

Call to Speak with Our Greenville Rideshare Accident Lawyer

This is probably the most vital step. Reach out to our office to speak with an experienced lawyer about your crash. Our Greenville rideshare accident lawyers at Davis & Snyder Injury Attorneys provide compassionate, individualized attention to all our clients. We know the journey to full recovery is difficult, but we will be by your side. Call to schedule a free consultation. We serve Greenville, Spartanburg, and Upstate South Carolina.

Source:

law.justia.com/codes/south-carolina/title-56/chapter-5/section-56-5-1270/