If you have been in an accident involving an Uber while in Texas, it is advisable that you take the following steps, even if you believe you did not suffer any injuries. It is possible that you might not feel any of the effects from the accident until a few days later. You may, in fact, be eligible for compensation through the claims process. The appropriate steps to take would be as follows:
- Report the Accident: Once you call 911, a reporting officer should come to the scene of the accident and write up the report. This report will include the names and contact information of everyone involved in the accident, along with the officer’s opinion with respect to how the accident occurred and who caused it. The accident report will become public record within a few days, and you can request it online.This can serve as your evidence that the driver or rideshare company you are suing was at fault for the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. If you have any injuries, make sure you go to a doctor, clinic or emergency room. This is wise to do to make sure you are being treated properly, but also will create a record of your injuries.
- Gather information: It is important to document the date, time and location of the incident, the Uber driver’s name and contact information, and any details from witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene as well if you are able to do so.
- Report the incident to Uber: Report the accident to Uber as soon as possible. You can do this through the Uber app or by contacting their customer support.
- File a Claim: You can file a claim using a simple online claims form located on the Uber app. After you submit your claim, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your claim number, claim adjuster’s contact information and a list of additional documents you may need in order to process your claim.
- Contact an attorney: Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney who specializes in rideshare accidents. They can guide you through the legal process, and help you deal with Uber, as well as the insurance companies.
- Insurance coverage: Uber provides liability insurance coverage for its drivers, which typically covers injuries sustained by passengers during a ride. Once you report the incident to Uber, their insurance provider will start the claims process.
- Keep track of your costs: Make sure you have a record of all of your medical expenses and any other expenses related to the accident. Also, document any loss of/ reduced income stemming from the accident.
- Negotiations and settlement: Refuse premature settlement offers. Do not accept any settlement offers before you have a grasp of all the losses you have sustained from the accident. You might believe you suffered minimal injuries and accept an offer, only to discover later that your injuries were much more serious than you originally anticipated.
Your attorney will work with the insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement. They will assess your injuries and expenses that you incurred throughout the process in order to determine an appropriate compensation amount.
- Legal action: If negotiations do not lead to a satisfactory settlement, it may be time to file a lawsuit against the party responsible for the accident, with the advice of your attorney.
The Attorneys at Ceja Law Firm Help Those Who Have Been Injured in Uber and Other Rideshare Accidents
Remember that this information provides a general overview of the claims process in Texas if you have been injured in an Uber. It is advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in Texas to evaluate the specific circumstances and discuss your available legal options. Ceja Law, PLLC can provide guidance, assess the strength of your case and help navigate the legal process to pursue the appropriate remedies. Contact our office today.
