Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have become a staple of convenience for Californians traveling across the state. However, since 2011, these services have witnessed a concerning trend – an annual increase of approximately 3% in accidents and fatalities involving ride-share drivers.

These accidents stem from various causes, including collisions with other vehicles, single-car accidents due to driver negligence, and incidents involving pedestrians or cyclists. Astonishingly, Uber's latest safety report revealed that a staggering 94% of accidents between 2019 and 2020 were a result of negligent behavior by third-party drivers, often due to factors like speeding or intoxicated driving.

Your safety is paramount after a ride-sharing accident.

If you find yourself in such a situation, here are crucial steps to follow:

1. Document the Scene:

Gather as much evidence as possible, including photographs and videos of the accident scene. Obtain witness statements if available. Collect the contact and insurance details of the ride-share driver since they are required to have both personal and commercial insurance.

2. Seek Medical Treatment:

Some injuries, like whiplash, may not manifest immediately following an accident.

Schedule a prompt visit to your doctor to assess and document any hidden injuries. Your medical records can serve as valuable support for your insurance claim and help your attorney establish a clear link between your injuries and the accident.

3. Report the Incident to the Ride-Share Company:

It's essential to inform the ride-share company about the accident as soon as possible. Complete the necessary claim form for Uber or Lyft, initiating the review of your claim and the potential award of compensation under their liability policies.