An Uber accident can happen when you least expect it. You may be riding as a passenger, driving your own car, or walking across the street when a rideshare vehicle is involved in a crash. After the shock wears off, many people are left wondering what to do next. Taking the right steps can help protect your health and your legal rights. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, a car accident lawyer in New Orleans can help you seek compensation.
Put Your Safety First
After an Uber accident, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. Even if your injuries seem minor, let emergency responders examine you. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms right away.
If it is safe, move away from traffic and wait for police to arrive. Do not leave the scene until law enforcement says you can. A police report can become valuable evidence if you decide to file an insurance claim or pursue a personal injury case.
Gather Information at the Scene
If you are able, collect as much information as possible before leaving the accident scene. Take photos of the vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Get the names, phone numbers, and insurance information of everyone involved, including the Uber driver, other drivers, and any witnesses.
If you were an Uber passenger, take a screenshot of your trip details in the Uber app. This can help show that the ride was active at the time of the crash. The more information you have, the easier it may be to support your claim later.
Get Medical Care
Many people think they are okay after an accident because the adrenaline hides their pain. Hours or even days later, they may begin to notice stiffness, headaches, or other symptoms. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible creates a medical record that connects your injuries to the Uber accident.
Follow your doctor’s treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments. Medical records play a big role when seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Report the Accident
If you were riding in an Uber, report the accident through the Uber app after you have received medical attention. You should also notify your own insurance company if your policy requires it. When speaking with insurance representatives, stick to the facts about what happened.
Avoid guessing about who caused the accident or saying you were not injured before a doctor has evaluated you. Insurance companies often look for reasons to reduce or deny claims.
Understand How Uber Insurance May Apply
One reason an Uber accident can be more complicated than a regular car crash is because several insurance policies may be involved. The coverage available often depends on what the Uber driver was doing at the time of the accident.
If the driver was actively transporting a passenger or driving to pick one up, Uber generally provides liability coverage that may apply if the driver is responsible for the crash. If another driver caused the accident, that driver’s insurance may be responsible for paying damages. In some situations, multiple insurance companies may become involved, making the claims process more difficult.
Know Your Rights Under Louisiana Law
Louisiana follows a comparative fault system. This means more than one person can share responsibility for an accident. If you are found partly at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault instead of being completely denied.
Louisiana also has a two-year deadline for filing most personal injury lawsuits arising from vehicle accidents. Waiting too long may prevent you from recovering compensation. Acting quickly also helps preserve evidence while witness memories are still fresh.
Talk With a Car Accident Lawyer in New Orleans
An Uber accident claim often involves multiple parties, insurance companies, and questions about liability. An experienced car accident lawyer in New Orleans can review the facts, gather evidence, communicate with the insurance companies, and work to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber accident, the lawyers at Flinn Fezio are ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can protect your rights while you focus on your recovery.
Flinn Fezio Trial Lawyers proudly represents accident victims throughout New Orleans and nearby communities across Southeast Louisiana. Whether your accident happened in the French Quarter, Uptown, Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, or another surrounding area, our team is ready to help you understand your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
