An Uber, Lyft or rideshare accident can turn your life upside down in seconds. The decisions you make immediately after the crash will have a huge impact on your health, your case, and the compensation you can recover.
Here’s exactly what to do right now to protect your claim.
Step 1: Get Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you “don’t feel that bad,” you should always see a doctor after a rideshare accident.
- Many injuries, like concussions, whiplash, and internal trauma, don’t show symptoms right away.
- Insurance companies look for gaps in treatment to argue your injuries weren’t serious.
- Medical records create the documentation you’ll need to prove damages.
Bottom line: Delaying treatment can hurt both your health and your case.
Step 2: Gather Evidence at the Scene
The more evidence you have, the stronger your case. If you’re able, collect:
- Driver details: name, license plate, insurance info, and rideshare app status
- App records: ride receipts, app screenshots showing the trip in progress
- Photos: vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and your injuries
- Witness information: names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the crash
- Police report: always request a copy
This evidence helps your attorney establish liability—whether it’s the Uber/Lyft driver, another driver, or multiple parties.
Step 3: Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters Alone
You’ll likely be contacted by Uber, Lyft, or another driver’s insurance company soon after the accident. Their goal is to minimize payouts, not to protect you.
- They may ask “friendly” questions designed to get you to downplay your injuries.
- They may push you to settle quickly before you know the full impact of your injuries.
- Anything you say can be used against you later.
Tip: Do not speak to an adjuster without first talking to a lawyer. At The Law Office of Portnoi & Reed P.C., we handle all communications so you don’t risk your case.
Step 4: Know the Insurance Rules
Uber and Lyft carry up to $1 million in coverage, but when it applies depends on the driver’s status:
- Driver offline – only personal auto insurance applies.
- Driver waiting for a ride – limited coverage: $50,000 per person, $100,000 per rideshare accident.
- Driver en route or transporting passenger – full $1 million policy kicks in.
Sorting out which policy applies isn’t easy. Our firm has decades of experience navigating these disputes for Union County residents.
Step 5: Contact an Experienced Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Rideshare accident claims are complex and high-stakes. Having a lawyer ensures you:
- Don’t miss the 2-year statute of limitations for filing in New Jersey.
- Maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, future treatment, and pain and suffering.
- Get strategic case handling—from investigation and evidence gathering to negotiation and trial if necessary.
- Pay nothing upfront, since we work on a contingency fee basis (we only get paid if we win).
With over 30 years serving Union County, our firm has handled Uber/Lyft claims ranging from soft tissue injuries to life-changing catastrophic cases. We know how to stand up to corporate insurers and fight for the full recovery you deserve.
Protect Your Case Today
If you’ve been in an Uber, Lyft or Rideshare accident, the clock is already ticking. Evidence disappears fast, medical bills add up, and insurance companies are already working against you.
Call The Law Office of Portnoi & Reed P.C. at (908) 228-8800 now for a free consultation. We’ll explain your options, review your case, and take immediate steps to protect your claim.
