Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have grown rapidly over the past decade and are available across the nation. Many people choose ridesharing instead of hailing a cab, using public transportation, or renting a car. When you are a passenger in a ridesharing vehicle, commercial auto insurance should protect you against costs arising from an accident. An offending driver’s insurance also could cover your losses. Here’s how personal injury law enables you to file a personal injury claim after a rideshare accident.

Retain an Accident Attorney

An attorney who is experienced in personal injury law can be a big help when you’re injured while using a ridesharing service. The attorney can help determine who is liable and file the respective injury claims. The insurers of the liable drivers should cover your injury costs and any related claims. According to IBISWorld, personal injury lawyers earned about $53 billion in 2022, so there should be plenty of experienced ones available.

Get Medical Treatment as Soon as Possible

Whenever filing any kind of personal injury claim, personal injury law requires you to prove you suffered harm. The sooner you get medical treatment, the more apparent the accident caused your injuries. Even if you feel relatively fine, you should go to a hospital emergency room for treatment. The doctor can diagnose and treat your injuries and document them. The medical report affirms the injuries and helps affirm the accident caused them.

File a Claim With the Insurer of the Rideshare Vehicle

A ridesharing service is a commercial transportation service provider. Although the car is owned or leased by the ridesharing driver, it is a commercial service that requires commercial auto insurance protection. Uber and Lyft carry commercial insurance that protects passengers using their services. Their insurance should pay for your medical costs, lost wages, and other harm you might suffer if injured in an accident.

File a Claim With an Offending Motorist’s Insurer

When another motorist causes an accident or some other entity is liable for creating a dangerous condition that causes an accident, that party is liable for your injuries. Your attorney can help you identify one or more liable parties and file claims with their insurers. State laws can vary on how to handle rideshare accidents, so your attorney is your best resource for information and filing well-supported claims.

If you were injured while using a ridesharing service, contact Trabosh & Trabosh to schedule an initial consultation with an experienced attorney.