Many people climb into an Uber or other rideshare vehicle, sit back, and relax. This isn’t necessarily bad, but it’s important to remember that cars of all types, including rideshare vehicles, get into accidents when passengers are present. So, while you don’t worry about fighting traffic or figuring out the best route to your destination, you should know what steps you need to take if you have an accident while riding in an Uber or other rideshare vehicle, including driverless Waymo vehicles.
At Eason & Tambornini, we have been helping victims of rideshare accidents get the compensation they deserve since the apps came on the scene more than a dozen years ago. If you need help, call us. The consultation is free, and if we proceed with a claim on your behalf, you pay nothing until and unless you win a settlement.
Learn more about our Sacramento Uber and Lyft Accident Attorney Services.
Rideshare Accidents Are on the Rise
Recently published data by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that rideshare accidents in the Sacramento region are rising, mirroring nationwide trends. Rideshare accidents have increased by over 3% since 2023, with a significant portion of these crashes occurring in urban areas like Sacramento. On the other hand, multiple studies show that the incidence of drunk-driving-related crashes has lessened since the advent of rideshare apps.
The Complications of Rideshare Accidents
Claims can get complex with multiple parties involved (you, the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and the other vehicle or vehicles). Who is responsible? Are multiple parties at fault? The sooner you contact an attorney to represent you, handle all communications, and negotiate a settlement for you, the more likely your chances of reaching a successful settlement that is fair to you.
What To Do If Your Rideshare Vehicle Is Involved in an Accident
One minute, you’re on your way to dinner, free to relax and enjoy yourself without the responsibility of driving or navigating. You’re stuck in an intersection the next minute because the driver got into an accident. Not only that, but you weren’t even paying attention because you were looking at your phone. Did someone else hit your vehicle, or was your driver at fault?
This is a common scenario regarding accidents in rideshare vehicles, like Uber, Lyft, or even Waymo vehicles. It may be confusing not knowing what the heck just happened, but the next steps are virtually the same as they would be if you were driving:
- Assess whether you are injured and get to safety. If you can safely exit the vehicle, do so. Move to a protected area before you call anyone.
- Call the police to report the accident. Try to observe the condition of the other victims. If the situation warrants it, call 911.
- Document everything you can. Take pictures of your injuries, the car, and the accident scene itself if possible. If you can locate witnesses, ask for their contact information.
- Do not speak to anyone about what happened at the scene except the police. When talking to the police, it is crucial to stick to the facts: basic information about what, if anything, you observed, such as time of day or night, weather, etc. Do not speculate about what you think must have happened. It is perfectly fine to say, “I don’t know” if you are asked a question you don’t know the answer to, even by a police officer.
Post-Accident Behavior and Actions
As tempting as sharing your experience on social media may be, don’t. Importantly, do not speak to any insurance company representatives or rideshare company personnel until you have consulted an attorney.
Be sure to remain aware of any post-accident changes in your physical condition, including increases in pain or other injury symptoms. If you notice something, return to the doctor or emergency room if necessary. Often, due to the stress of accidents and resulting shock, it can take a few days or more for symptoms of injuries to develop.
Consult an Experienced Rideshare Accident Attorney
Not all personal injury attorneys have experience representing victims of rideshare accidents. Eason & Tambornini has been representing clients involved in rideshare accidents since they arrived on the scene over a dozen years ago. We have represented countless car accident victims in our 30 years of practicing personal injury law in the Sacramento region. With the advent of rideshare services, including Uber, Lyft, and Waymo, we are seeing more and more of these types of accidents all the time.
Rideshare Accident Attorneys: Free Consultation, No Fees Unless You Win
If you need advice or support regarding a claim or case, contact the rideshare accident attorneys at Eason & Tambornini. Call (916) 438-1819 today for a free consultation. If we take your case, you pay nothing until and unless you win a settlement.