Rideshare companies Uber and Lyft have made travel more convenient than ever before. But what happens if you are injured in a car accident as a rideshare passenger?
Like other Connecticut car accidents, passengers in a rideshare accident should follow the same procedures. Call 911, seek medical treatment, and document as much information regarding the accident as possible.
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- Call 911.
It is important to contact the local or Connecticut state police immediately after an Uber or Lyft car accident. This is absolutely necessary when there are injuries or damage to vehicles. Connecticut police will be able to contact emergency medical services to respond to the accident.
The police will also write an official report documenting the accident. The insurance companies use this official report to determine liability. In a rideshare car accident, there can be more than one insurance company to pursue. The police report will have the insurance information of all parties involved making this process easier.
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- Take Pictures and document information.
It is wise to take pictures of all of the cars involved in the accident. It is also a good idea to get the name and number of the Uber driver as well as any witnesses to the accident.
If there was more than one car involved it is important to get the other drivers name and insurance information at this time. Much of this information will be on the police report, but the report may not be immediately accessible.
Compensation: Who will pay for personal injuries?
It depends who is at fault for the accident. If the Uber or Lyft driver caused the accident, as a passenger you may be covered under the $1 million in liability insurance and bodily injury coverage that both companies provides its drivers. Uber and Lyft also require their drivers to carry their own Connecticut auto insurance policy. If another driver caused the car accident, you would make a claim against the at fault driver’s insurance. If they do not have insurance, the rideshare passenger can make a claim under the UM/UIM coverage provided by Uber or Lyft.
If you were involved in a Connecticut car accident with an Uber of Lyft vehicle, it is best to contact a Board Certified Attorney who is experienced with rideshare car accident cases. Contact Attorney Frank McCoy here, or call 860-244-9100 for your free consultation.
