Uber and Lyft are well-known companies across the country now, including here in Kentucky. Many residents and visitors in the Commonwealth use rad share services as convenient ways to get from point A to point B, but rideshare accidents do occur. Here, we want to discuss some of the first steps individuals can take if they are involved in a Lyft or Uber accident in Kentucky.
Immediately after the accident, assess if you or anyone else involved has sustained any injuries. Safety should always be your primary concern. If there are injuries, call 911 right away to get medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it is wise to seek medical care, as some rideshare accident injuries may not be immediately apparent.
In Kentucky, it’s important to report any traffic accident to the police, especially when it involves a rideshare vehicle. The police will document the scene and generate an accident report, which can be crucial for insurance claims and potential legal actions. According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, you are legally required to report any vehicle collision that results in injury, death, or property damage over a certain amount.
Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved, including the rideshare driver. It is also helpful to note the make and model of the vehicles involved. Remember, as per Uber and Lyft’s policies, their drivers are independent contractors, and the companies have specific insurance policies in place for accidents.
If it’s safe to do so, take photographs of the accident scene, including positions of vehicle, any property damage, and any injuries. These photos can provide valuable evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or a legal claim. If there were any eyewitnesses to the incident, getting their names and contact information is crucial. Your injury attorney in Louisville can contact these individuals later to get official statements, and witnesses may be useful if the case goes to trial.
Report the accident through the Uber or Lyft app. Both companies have a protocol for accidents, which can be found on their respective websites. This notification is crucial as it activates the company’s insurance policy, which may cover certain damages and injuries depending on the accident circumstances.
Consider reaching out to a personal injury lawyer experienced in rideshare accidents. Kentucky’s insurance and liability laws can be complex, especially with the involvement of rideshare companies. An attorney can help navigate these complexities and ensure your rights are protected. Importantly, an attorney can fully investigate the claim and handle any communication with other parties involved, including insurance carriers or rideshare companies.
If you sustained injuries as a result of the rideshare accident, follow up with the necessary medical care recommended by your doctor. Injuries from car accidents can have delayed symptoms, so it is crucial to monitor your health closely in the days following the accident. Additionally, if a crash victim discontinues medical treatment before a doctor clears them to do so, this could adversely affect the person’s ability to recover compensation.