Mistakes to Avoid After an Accident
Car Accident Lawyer
Uber and Lyft accidents are becoming more common with the popularity of rideshare companies. After an accident, you should treat it the same as you would any car accident. With rideshare drivers, you still have to determine fault and file a claim against the driver’s insurance company. This will either be against their insurance company or the rideshare’s insurance company. After the accident, however, there are three mistakes you want to avoid.
- Refuse to Call Emergency Services
After an accident, many drivers choose not to call for emergency services. You may not feel the extent of your injuries until later. You should always call for the police and/or medical assistance after an accident. The police will write the report that may assist your claim and the paramedics will provide your first piece of evidence for injuries. The police can make a credible determination of fault.
- Forget to Gather Witness Testimonies
If you can stay on the scene of the accident, consider talking to witnesses. After an accident, you and the other driver will be under a lot of stress. You both may be shaken up and have difficulty remembering the details of an accident. Insurance companies will ask about witnesses. Odds are the other driver’s story will not line up with yours. A witness can clear up any discrepancies for the company.
If you are dealing with a rideshare company, then you are also dealing with the rideshare company’s insurance provider. You want to make sure that you have as much evidence as possible.
- File a Claim Without Assistance
It can be risky to talk with an insurance company without a lawyer. An insurer may twist your statements to use your words against you. The insurer’s point is to find a reason to lower your claim or to deny your claim.
A lawyer can advise you on what to and what not to say to the other insurance company. Also, your lawyer can negotiate a settlement with the insurance company. Lawyers know how to figure out what damages you qualify for. He or she will factor your lost wages, medical costs, pain and suffering and any reduced earning capacity into your settlement. This experience is invaluable.
After an Uber or Lyft accident, you need to avoid as many mistakes as possible if you want to recoup damages. To find out more about how to strengthen your claim, consult with a car accident lawyer, as soon as possible.
