Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly popular in Maryland. And while these services are convenient and often less expensive than traditional taxi services, they are not without risk. In recent years, the number of rideshare accidents in Maryland has been rising.
While the number of rideshare accidents in Maryland is increasing, there are steps riders can take to reduce their risk. For starters, riders should always double-check the identity of their driver and vehicle before getting in the car. It is also important to ensure the driver follows all traffic laws, including the speed limit and signaling when turning or changing lanes. Finally, it is a good idea to save the driver’s name, vehicle, and license plate number in case of an accident.
As more travelers use rideshare services, accidents will likely increase in the coming years. If you have been in an accident with an Uber or Lyft, whether as a passenger or another driver, call the Maryland Uber and Lyft accident lawyers who understand how to build a case against these companies and deal with the insurance companies on your behalf.
Determining Liability After a Maryland Uber or Lyft Accident
When an Uber or Lyft accident occurs, determining liability can be a complicated process. Liability is typically determined by how each party involved in the accident acted before and during the incident. This means that it’s possible for both the driver and the passenger to be held liable for the damages caused. It’s also possible that a road hazard or other driver caused the accident.
The first step in determining liability is finding out who was at fault. If the Uber or Lyft driver was at fault, they would be held liable for any damages caused to the other party. This is usually determined by looking at the police report, which generally states who caused the accident. If another driver was responsible for the accident, they would be held liable for injuries and damages.
In addition to looking at who was at fault, a lawyer must also consider the actions of each party prior to the accident. For example, if the driver was distracted or driving recklessly, or if the passenger was behaving in a way that could have caused the accident, they could each be held liable for any damages caused.
Once the fault has been determined, an attorney must look into the insurance coverage of each party. Uber and Lyft drivers are required to carry certain levels of insurance, and if they are found to be at fault, their insurance will cover any damages or injuries.
What Do You Do if You Were the Passenger in a Rideshare Accident?
If you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident, the steps you should take are much the same as if you were in any other type of accident. The most important thing is to stay as safe as possible and to do your best to document the incident for any potential legal action that may be necessary down the road.
First, you should ensure you are not in any immediate danger. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. If you can, take pictures of the accident scene and any visible damage to the vehicles involved. It’s also important to get the contact information of the other driver and any witnesses, as well as the driver’s information.
Once the immediate danger has passed, report the accident directly on your Uber or Lyft application. The company can possibly provide you with information that could help in any legal proceedings you may have to take, so it is important to keep them in the loop.
When you’re able, contact Maryland Uber and Lyft accident lawyers to discuss the details of the incident and determine your legal rights. Pinder Plotkin attorneys can provide valuable advice in such a situation and can help you take any necessary legal steps to receive compensation for any damages.
Finally, it is important to keep track of all paperwork and documents related to the accident, as well as any expenses incurred from the incident. This information is essential if you decide to pursue a legal claim down the road.
By following these steps and staying as safe as possible, you can ensure that you and your right to compensation is properly protected if you are a passenger in an Uber or Lyft accident.
What Do You Do if You’re the Driver?
If you are a driver in a rideshare accident, it is important to know what you should do to protect yourself and your passengers. The following are some steps you should take:
- Pull over and check for injuries. If there are any injuries, call 911 immediately. Otherwise, move the vehicle to a safe place, out of the way of traffic.
- Notify your rideshare company. Notify your rideshare company about the accident. Depending on the company, you may need to fill out an accident report or provide additional information.
- Take pictures of the scene. Document the accident scene by taking pictures of the vehicles involved and the surrounding area. This can help you and your rideshare company if the accident is disputed.
- Contact the police. Regardless, if the accident is serious, contact the police to file a police report. This can help if you need to file an insurance claim or if there is a dispute regarding who is at fault or an injury claim made by passengers.
- Exchange information with other drivers. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the accident.
- Seek medical attention. If you or your passengers sustain any injuries, seek medical attention. It is important to treat any injuries as soon as possible.
- Contact an attorney. If the accident was serious and resulted in property damage or serious injury, contact an attorney to protect your rights.
Being involved in a rideshare accident can be stressful and overwhelming. However, by taking the correct steps, you can ensure that you and your passengers are safe and that your rights as a driver are protected.
Injured in a Rideshare Accident? Contact the Maryland Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers.
If you’re a driver and you’ve been involved in a crash with an Uber driver, there are a few steps you should take. First and foremost, if anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
Make sure you have all the necessary information from the other driver. This includes their name, license plate number, and the make and model of their vehicle, and the company they drive for. Also, take pictures of the accident scene, including the damage to both vehicles and injuries suffered due to the accident.
You should also call the police and file a report. Even if you may not know if the Uber driver violated traffic laws, it’s important to have a record of the accident.
Once you are certain everyone involved has received appropriate medical attention, and you’re in a safe space, contact an attorney. Calling an attorney right after an accident is essential to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Our experienced attorneys are experts handling Uber/Lyft accident claims, and we can obtain significant compensation for victims in these cases. If you or a loved one has been injured or suffered damages at the hands of an Uber or Lyft driver, contact the accident attorneys at Pinder Plotkin for a confidential evaluation of your case and learn the steps you should take to protect your rights. An attorney with experience handling rideshare accident claims can sort out the issues related to liability to help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, losses, and damages.