Rideshare accidents can leave passengers, drivers, and even pedestrians facing unexpected injuries and complicated insurance claims. At Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C., our Atlanta-based Uber accident lawyers help victims navigate these unique cases and pursue the compensation they deserve. Call us at 770-205-8887 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can assist you.
Steps to Take After Being Injured in an Uber Accident in Atlanta
Uber rides are a convenient way to get around Atlanta, especially in high-traffic areas like Midtown or Buckhead. But when a rideshare trip ends in a crash, the experience can be overwhelming. Whether you were a passenger in the Uber, another driver, or even a pedestrian hit by an Uber vehicle, knowing what to do next is essential. Quick action can help protect your health and preserve your legal rights.
Check for injuries and get to safety
Your first priority should always be safety. If you’re seriously injured, try not to move until emergency personnel arrive. If your injuries are minor or you’re unhurt, move away from traffic or dangerous areas if it’s safe to do so. Encourage others at the scene to do the same.
Call 911 immediately. Even if no one seems seriously hurt, it’s still important to report the crash. A police report will document key details that may be important later, especially when dealing with insurance companies or considering a legal claim.
Seek medical attention right away
Sometimes injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Internal injuries, concussions, and whiplash often appear hours or even days after a collision. Getting checked out by a medical professional ensures that any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated early.
Keep records of all medical visits, test results, and recommendations. These documents can help prove that your injuries were a direct result of the crash.
Collect information at the scene
If you’re able to, gather as much information as you can while still at the scene. Key details include:
- The Uber driver’s name, license plate number, and insurance information
- The contact information of other drivers or passengers involved
- Photos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries
- Contact details for any eyewitnesses
Also take a screenshot of your Uber trip from the app. This can show when and where your ride took place, which may help confirm you were a passenger during the accident.
Make sure the crash is reported to Uber
Uber has a built-in process for handling accident reports. If you were a passenger, open the app, go to the trip in question, and report the incident. This alerts Uber’s insurance provider and can start the claims process.
Drivers involved in the crash should also report the accident through their own app, even if they were not at fault.
Understand Who May Be Responsible
Rideshare accidents are more complex than typical car accidents because multiple parties could be liable. Depending on the situation, responsibility could fall on:
- The Uber driver
- Another driver involved
- A pedestrian or cyclist
- A vehicle manufacturer (in cases of defective parts)
Uber carries a $1 million liability policy that may apply under certain circumstances. However, whether this coverage applies depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. If the driver had a passenger or was on the way to pick someone up, Uber’s full policy usually applies. If they were logged into the app but not yet matched with a rider, lower coverage limits might be in place.
Be cautious when speaking with insurance companies
After the accident, you may be contacted by insurance representatives. While they may seem helpful, remember that their goal is often to minimize the payout. Do not admit fault or give recorded statements without legal advice. Stick to the facts and avoid speculation.
You also don’t have to accept the first settlement offer. Many early offers are lower than what you may be entitled to receive. Make sure you fully understand the value of your claim, including future medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering, before agreeing to anything.
Speak with a personal injury lawyer experienced in rideshare accidents
Uber accidents involve complex insurance questions and legal responsibilities. That’s why it helps to work with an attorney who understands Georgia’s laws and how they apply to rideshare cases.
A skilled personal injury lawyer can help you:
- Identify all potential sources of compensation
- Determine who may be legally responsible
- Gather and preserve important evidence
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Build a strong claim that reflects the true impact of your injuries
In Atlanta, rideshare injury cases often involve both state traffic laws and unique insurance policies. Having the right legal guidance can make the process much easier and less stressful.
Document everything related to your recovery
Keep a folder with all accident-related paperwork. This should include medical records, bills, repair estimates, proof of missed work, and any communication with Uber or insurers. You should also consider writing down your experiences in a daily journal—note your pain levels, emotional challenges, or changes in your ability to enjoy daily life.
This type of documentation can help show how the accident affected you beyond just physical injuries.
Don’t wait too long to take legal action
Georgia law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. While that may seem like a long time, building a strong case takes effort and evidence. The sooner you act, the better your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
Also, some insurance claims have much shorter deadlines, especially when rideshare companies are involved. An attorney can help make sure you don’t miss any key dates.
An Uber accident can leave you with unexpected injuries, medical bills, and uncertainty about who should be held accountable. Acting quickly, documenting the scene, and getting medical attention are all important first steps. But navigating the insurance process and legal issues can be tough on your own.
Get Guidance from an Experienced Uber Accident Attorney
Rideshare accident claims often involve multiple insurance policies and legal complexities. If you’ve been injured in an Uber-related crash, the Uber accident attorney at Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. can help you understand your rights and fight for fair compensation. Contact our Atlanta office today at 770-205-8887 for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.