Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft make transportation easier but accidents still happen. If you're injured as a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, you may be entitled to compensation.

However, what you do in the first few hours after the crash can affect your entire claim. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do immediately after a rideshare accident.

Call 911 and Get a Police Report

Your first priority should be safety. If you’re involved in an Uber or Lyft crash, call 911. Request medical assistance if needed and make sure officers file an official accident report.

This document can serve as vital evidence in your injury claim. It includes names, contact info, crash details, and who may be at fault.

Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Even if you feel okay, visit a doctor. Some injuries like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions don’t show symptoms right away.

Getting checked out creates a medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident. This is essential when filing your claim.

Collect Evidence at the Scene

If you're physically able, gather the following information to help build a strong, clear case.

• Photos of the vehicles, street, damage, and your injuries

• Screenshots of the rideshare trip details

• The Uber or Lyft driver’s name, license plate, and insurance info

• Names and contact info of any witnesses

Report the Accident to Uber or Lyft

Open the app and report the incident. This triggers the company’s internal claims process and alerts their insurance provider.

Both Uber and Lyft offer liability coverage, but it depends on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

Know Who May Be Liable

Understanding these rules helps you know where to direct your claim. Liability in rideshare accidents isn’t always straightforward:

• If the driver wasn’t using the app, only their personal insurance applies.

• If the driver was logged in but hadn’t picked up a passenger yet, Uber or Lyft provides limited coverage.

• If the driver was on the way to pick someone up or had a passenger onboard, the rideshare company’s $1 million policy applies.

Be Careful with Insurance Companies

You might get calls from multiple insurers, yours, the driver’s, or Uber/Lyft’s. Don’t rush into giving statements or accepting offers.

Their goal is often to settle quickly, for as little as possible. Your best bet is to talk to an experienced lawyer before signing anything.

Connect the Dots: Other Injury Scenarios

If you’re navigating a rideshare claim, it’s also worth understanding how liability works in other types of injury cases. For example, see how responsibility is determined in North Carolina slip and fall injuries, you may find the legal overlap useful.

Get Help After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Experienced rideshare accident attorneys help victims across North Carolina deal with Uber, Lyft, insurance companies, and medical providers.