Rideshare has become the primary mode of transportation in the US. It is pretty convenient and cost-effective. People in major states, like California, have adapted to this mode of transportation. Rideshare services do have a dark side. According to recent reports, 101 people died as a result of rideshare accidents in California in a year.

It is said that there has been a 3% increase in traffic accidents since the introduction of rideshare services. Remember that if you are living in a major city in California, like Bakersfield, the chances of rideshare accidents are high. Get the help of experienced legal professionals like a rideshare accident lawyer in Bakersfield, CA, if you ever get involved in a rideshare accident.

It is possible to get a huge settlement with the help of an experienced lawyer. In California, The Law Offices of Mickey Fine secured $750,000 for a car accident victim.

The same can happen to you if you hire a lawyer for your case. Another factor that can significantly affect your case is the action you take after the accident.

The right actions can help your lawyer greatly.

The following are some of the things you must do after an accident:

• Exchange information with the at-fault party
• Collect evidence
• Seek medical attention
• Contact a lawyer
• Document your losses
• File a claim

Exchange Information with the At-Fault Party

If you are able to, move out of the accident site. Chain accidents are a possibility in congested areas. So, move out of the area and check for injuries.

After ensuring your health, exchange information with the other party involved.

Remember, do not say sorry or say other things that can be considered as an admission of fault.

Just get their contact information and insurance information.

Collect Evidence

Evidence plays a crucial role in proving liability. You need to remember that you bear the burden of proof in personal injury cases. So it is on you to prove your case.

You can collect evidence like witness statements and photos.

Take photos and videos of the accident scene, your injuries, and the damage to your property.

Speak with the witnesses and collect their recorded statement and their contact information.

Seek Medical Attention

This is one of the most important steps to take after an accident. You may think that you haven’t sustained any serious injuries and that it is okay to skip seeing a doctor.

Well, you are wrong.

Some major injuries, like TBI and whiplash, don’t show symptoms until it’s too late. So see a doctor immediately, even if you feel fine.

Another reason why you should see a doctor is that if you don’t, insurance companies will use it against you.

They will claim that your injuries are not severe or that you made them worse by not seeing a doctor.

Contact a Lawyer

Personal injury lawyers are experts at securing fair compensation for accident victims. They are aware of the strategies that insurance companies will use and can counter them effectively.

Hiring a lawyer significantly improves the chance of winning fair compensation. From determining liability to negotiating with the insurance company and obtaining fair compensation, a lawyer can help in every step.

Document Your Losses

It is important to document your losses to make the calculation process easier.

Collect the receipts for any expenses you incur as a result of the accident. A lawyer can easily calculate your economic losses if you have these receipts.

With the help of your lawyer, you can document your non-economic losses too.

File a Claim

After all the preparation, you can finally file a claim by sending a demand letter. In the demand letter, mention your losses and how much you are seeking as compensation.

Claim more than your losses to give some room for negotiation. Don’t be surprised if the insurance agency rejects your claim.

It is pretty normal.

Your lawyer will start the negotiation and get you the deserved compensation.

If the insurance company is not willing to settle for fair compensation, file a lawsuit. It is a complex, stressful, and long process, but it can get you a better outcome.

Final Thoughts

Hope you learned what you should do if you get into a rideshare accident. If you are not sure of what to do after an accident, call a lawyer. They will guide you on the right path.

 

Published By: Aize Perez