San Jose Uber & Lyft Accident Attorney

Uber and Lyft accidents are becoming more common as these rideshare services increase in popularity. San Francisco, the birthplace of Uber and Lyft, has offered these services to residents as alternatives to traditional taxis since the beginning. While these services have many things working in their favor, safety isn’t one of them. There have been thousands of Uber and Lyft accidents around the country, as well as 336 alleged sexual assaults and at least 42 deaths.

If your recent Uber or Lyft ride didn’t end well, contact Henshaw Law Office. We want to talk to you about your legal rights. We can help you negotiate a settlement with Uber or Lyft’s insurance company, which may be trying to unfairly deny your claim or offer less than what your injuries are worth. We can also file a claim with the civil courts if necessary. We offer free consultations, so you can explore your rights at no cost or obligation.

5 Steps to Take After an Uber or Lyft Accident in San Jose

The last thing you expect when you climb into your Uber or Lyft is to get into a vehicle collision. Unfortunately, rideshare drivers can make errors just like any other roadway users. In fact, they may be even more prone to distraction than most drivers because of the apps they have to use while driving. You may not be able to predict a wreck, but you can prepare for one. After a rideshare accident in San Jose or the Bay Area, here’s what to do:

1. Make sure the driver stops and calls the police, if necessary. If your driver doesn’t look like he or she is going to stop after a collision, ask that he/she do so. In California, all drivers must stop after a crash. Drivers must report collisions to the police if they cause injuries, deaths, or property damage of at least $1,000. Make the 911 call yourself if your driver refuses or is unable to.
2. Check for injuries. Check yourself for any injuries, and then check others involved in the crash. Request an ambulance if necessary. If you aren’t sure if you have injuries, say you don’t know when police ask. Saying, “No,” can make it harder to prove your claim later if you discover injuries.
3. Collect information. Get the names of the Uber/Lyft driver, the other driver, and anyone else involved in the collision. Write down the license plate number, or take a screenshot of the app. Keep copies of documents such as police reports and medical records.
4. Don’t talk to an insurance adjuster. As soon as you and/or the driver reports the accident to Uber or Lyft, a company insurance claims adjuster may contact you. It is wise to speak to a lawyer before you talk to the insurance company. That way, you’ll know what your claim is worth and whether or not to accept a settlement offer.
5. Consult with an attorney. Uber and Lyft accidents can cause serious damage. You may suffer from whiplash, broken bones, bruises, head injuries, or other harms. The insurance company is not on your side. Their goal is to save as much money as possible. An accident attorney, on the other hand, will only act in your best interests.

We know car accidents can be frightening and confusing. If you forgot or didn’t take some of these steps, it’s okay. You may still have a viable claim against the rideshare company or driver. Get in touch with our San Jose personal injury attorneys at (408) 599-1305 to learn more.