The holidays are upon us and so is the holiday party season! Many people will practice safe drinking habits by arranging for a designated driver or using the popular Lyft or Uber apps. Even though steps are taken to ensure a safe ride to and from your destinations, accidents still happen.
When you are in an accident with an Uber or Lyft driver, whether a passenger or a driver of another vehicle, you should take appropriate steps to document the crash and seek medical attention where appropriate. Also contacting an experienced accident lawyer for a consultation after an injury accident is always a good idea.
If you are able to, take photographs of the accident scene, the vehicles involved and even a video of the statements of the drivers should they admit fault. Often, due to injury, passengers are unable to appropriately document the accident scene.
The information that you will want to obtain if you’re able includes the following:
- the driver’s name, telephone number
- insurance information
- any other drivers contact information and insurance
- the name and address and telephone number of any witnesses to the crash
It is not uncommon for at-fault drivers to change their tune after they speak with their insurance company or its attorneys. Even in cases of crystal-clear liability, a driver at fault can easily attempt to turn the situation around and try to blame others or even you.
According to the company, Uber drivers must submit background checks and establish competency to drive. After a driver has been involved in a serious accident, it is not uncommon for companies to fire or no longer let that person drive for the company. This is adequate incentive for those who make their living driving others around to change their story about the cause of the crash.
Insurance companies generally believe their own insured when it comes to how the crash occurred. They are looking for any way out of paying a legitimate claim if they have an excuse.
There are many insurance issues that arise with a claim involving an Uber or Lyft driver. A common question most people have after an accident is, do you need an attorney? This area of law is very complicated; there are exceptions and technicalities that if you do not know the law can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars. This is why it is imperative you consult with our experienced Pennsylvania car accident attorneys at The Pisanchyn Law Firm to guide you through your claim.
Please, call our Pennsylvania accident attorneys toll free at 1-800-444-5309 for a free consultation. We have offices in Harrisburg, Philadelphia, Scranton and Pittsburgh and will travel to you.
