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What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Delaware

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What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Delaware

Who Is Liable for a Delaware Rideshare Accident?

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a popular transportation option in Delaware, but accidents involving rideshare vehicles can be complex and stressful. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, whether as a passenger, driver, or other party, knowing the right steps to take can significantly impact your ability to seek compensation. Here’s what you need to know and do to protect your rights after a rideshare accident in Delaware.

1. Prioritize Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Who Is Liable for a Delaware Rideshare Accident?The first step in any accident is to ensure your immediate safety and health. Move to a safe area if possible, away from traffic, and assess any injuries. Even if you feel okay, it’s crucial to get medical attention as soon as possible. Injuries like whiplash or concussions may not be immediately evident but can become serious over time. Visiting a doctor not only ensures your well-being but also creates an official medical record that will be critical if you decide to file a claim later.

2. Report the Accident to Authorities

After ensuring everyone is safe, call 911 and report the accident to law enforcement. In Delaware, it’s essential to have an official police report, especially if injuries or property damage have occurred. A police report will provide an objective record of the accident, which can serve as valuable evidence in any insurance claim or potential lawsuit.

3. Gather Important Information at the Scene

If you’re able, gather information about the accident, including:

  • Contact information for all drivers, passengers, and witnesses involved.
  • Insurance details of all parties.
  • License plate numbers and vehicle information of all involved vehicles.
  • Photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.

This information is essential for your lawyer when building your case and filing an insurance claim.

4. Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company

It’s essential to inform the rideshare company (Uber or Lyft) about the accident. Each company has a specific reporting process, usually accessible through their app. By reporting the incident, you help initiate their insurance process, as rideshare companies have unique insurance policies that may cover passengers and other injured parties depending on the circumstances of the accident.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Even though the rideshare company’s insurance might cover some of your expenses, you should still notify your personal auto insurance company about the accident. Each insurance policy is different, and your insurance provider may require timely notification of any accident, regardless of your role in it.

6. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer

Insurance adjusters, especially those from rideshare companies or other involved parties, may try to contact you to settle the case quickly. However, they often aim to minimize payouts, which may not cover all your losses. Avoid providing statements, signing documents, or accepting any settlement offer before consulting with a Delaware auto accident lawyer. A lawyer will ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.

7. Consult a Delaware Auto Accident Lawyer

Navigating a rideshare accident claim can be complex due to the multiple parties and insurance policies involved. A qualified Delaware auto accident lawyer can help you understand your options, gather evidence, communicate with insurers, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s coverage from the rideshare company, your insurance, or the driver’s personal insurance, a lawyer will work to get the best outcome for your case.

Understanding Insurance in Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare companies provide insurance coverage, but it varies depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident:

  • Driver Not Logged In: If the driver was not logged into the app, only their personal insurance applies.
  • Driver Logged In Without Passenger: If logged into the app but without a passenger, rideshare insurance typically provides liability coverage.
  • Driver with Passenger: When a passenger is in the vehicle, rideshare insurance often covers up to $1 million in liability.

Understanding this breakdown can clarify the compensation options available based on the accident circumstances.

Contact Edelstein Martin & Nelson Today

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in Delaware, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Our experienced Delaware auto accident lawyers at Edelstein Martin & Nelson are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (302) 295-5050 for a free consultation, and let us guide you through this complex process with confidence.

 

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