Essential Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident in Orlando

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have transformed transportation, offering convenience and affordability. However, accidents involving rideshare vehicles can be legally complex, especially when determining liability and insurance coverage. If you’re involved in a rideshare accident in Orlando, knowing the right steps to take can help protect your health, finances, and legal rights.

This guide outlines the essential actions to take after a rideshare accident, whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver affected by the crash.

1. Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention

Your health and safety should be your first priority. Check yourself and others for injuries, and call 911 if anyone needs emergency medical care. Even if you feel fine, you should still seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately but can become serious later.

A medical evaluation also creates an official record of your injuries, which can be important for any insurance claim or legal case.

2. Call Law Enforcement

In Florida, you must report an accident to the police if it results in injuries, death, or significant property damage. When law enforcement arrives, they will create an accident report detailing the crash, which serves as a crucial piece of evidence.

When speaking with officers, provide accurate details but avoid admitting fault or speculating about what happened. Let them conduct their investigation and document the facts.

3. Gather Information and Evidence

To strengthen your claim, collect as much evidence as possible at the scene:

• Rideshare driver’s details – Name, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
• Rideshare app details – Take screenshots of your ride details, including the driver’s name, vehicle details, and ride status.
• Vehicle information – Record the make, model, and license plate number of all involved vehicles.
• Eyewitness statements – Get contact information from witnesses who saw the accident.
• Photos and videos – Capture images of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, road signs, and traffic conditions.

This documentation can be invaluable when proving fault and seeking compensation.

4. Notify the Rideshare Company

If you were a passenger or the accident involved an Uber or Lyft driver, report the crash to the rideshare company through their app or website. Both Uber and Lyft have insurance policies that may cover your damages, but you need to inform them of the accident for a claim to be processed.

5. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Whether you were a rideshare passenger, driver, or another party involved, notify your own insurance company about the accident. However, avoid providing recorded statements or accepting a settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so legal guidance can help ensure you receive fair compensation.

6. Determine Who Is Liable

Liability in a rideshare accident depends on various factors, including whether the rideshare driver was logged into the app and whether they had a passenger. Here’s how insurance coverage works:

• If the driver was not logged into the app – Their personal auto insurance applies.
• If the driver was logged in but had no passenger – Uber or Lyft provides limited liability coverage.
• If the driver was transporting a passenger or en route to pick one up – Uber and Lyft offer up to $1 million in liability coverage.

Because liability can be complicated, a lawyer can help determine who is responsible for your damages.

7. Avoid Discussing the Accident on Social Media

Anything you say online can be used against you by insurance companies or defense attorneys. Avoid posting about the accident or discussing your injuries on social media until your case is resolved.

8. Consult a Rideshare Accident Attorney

Rideshare accident claims involve multiple parties, including drivers, passengers, insurance companies, and sometimes even the rideshare company itself. An experienced attorney can help by:

• Investigating the accident
• Determining liability
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Filing a lawsuit if necessary

A legal professional will ensure that you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If you’re wondering What to Do After an Uber Accident in Orlando, an attorney can guide you through the entire legal process.

9. Track Your Medical Treatment and Expenses

Keep detailed records of all medical visits, treatments, prescriptions, and related expenses. This documentation will help establish the extent of your injuries and the financial impact of the accident, which is critical when seeking compensation.

10. Be Cautious with Settlement Offers

Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, but these initial offers are often lower than what you’re entitled to. Before accepting any compensation, consult with a lawyer to evaluate whether the offer covers your medical bills, lost income, and future expenses.

Final Thoughts

A rideshare accident can leave you dealing with medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and lost wages. Taking the right steps immediately after the accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. By seeking medical attention, documenting evidence, and consulting a legal professional, you can protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been involved in a rideshare accident in Orlando, don’t wait—take action today to safeguard your future.