Ridesharing services have revolutionized the way we travel, making it easier and more convenient to get around than ever before. However, with the increased use of these services, there has also been an increase in the number of accidents involving rideshare vehicles. If you’re involved in a rideshare accident in Buffalo, New York, it’s important to know how to collect evidence to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Here are some steps you should take:
Call for emergency services
The first thing you should do after a rideshare accident is to call for emergency services. This includes the police, ambulance, and fire department if necessary. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s important to have an official record of the accident.
Gather contact information
Exchange contact information with the rideshare driver and any other drivers involved in the accident. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, and insurance information. If there were any witnesses to the accident, gather their contact information as well.
Take pictures and videos
Use your phone camera to take pictures and videos of the accident scene, including the damage to the rideshare vehicle and any other vehicles involved in the accident. You should also take pictures of any visible injuries you sustained in the accident. Make sure to capture the license plate numbers of all the vehicles involved in the accident.
Record the details
Write down the details of the accident while they’re still fresh in your mind. This includes the time and location of the accident, the weather conditions, the speed of the vehicles involved, and any other relevant details. It’s important to be as detailed as possible.
Seek medical attention
Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s important to seek medical attention after a rideshare accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and seeking medical attention will ensure that you get the treatment you need. It will also create a record of your injuries.
Contact an attorney
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Buffalo, New York, it’s important to contact an attorney who has experience with rideshare accidents. An attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of collecting evidence, filing a claim, and getting the compensation you deserve.
Request ride share company records
If you are a passenger in a rideshare vehicle during the accident, you should also request the rideshare company’s records. This can include the driver’s identification information, the ride details, and any other relevant information related to the accident. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft typically have a 24/7 emergency response team that can help you with this request.
Preserve evidence
Preserve all the evidence related to the accident, including the damaged vehicles, clothing, and any medical records. Make sure you keep all the documents, receipts, and communication related to the accident in a safe place.
Don’t admit fault
Even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident, it’s important not to admit fault or apologize at the accident scene. Doing so could hurt your chances of receiving compensation later on.
File a claim
Once you’ve collected all the necessary evidence and sought medical attention, it’s time to file a claim. Contact your insurance company and inform them of the accident. If you were a passenger in a rideshare vehicle, you can also contact the rideshare company’s insurance company to file a claim. You can also work with an experienced rideshare accident attorney to guide you through the claims process.
Collecting evidence after a rideshare accident in Buffalo, New York is critical to protecting your rights and getting the compensation you deserve. By following these steps and working with an experienced attorney, you can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages. Remember, the key is to act quickly and document everything to build a strong case for your claim.
At Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate the aftermath of a rideshare accident. That’s why we are committed to helping our clients collect the evidence they need to build a strong case and get the compensation they deserve.
Our attorneys will work tirelessly to gather evidence related to the accident, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records. We will also work with medical experts to document your injuries and their impact on your life. This evidence will be used to support your claim and to negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement.
If negotiations with the insurance company are unsuccessful, we are prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf. Our attorneys have a track record of success in personal injury cases, and we will work hard to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
We also understand that our clients are going through a difficult time and need support and guidance throughout the process. That’s why we provide individualized attention and support to every client we represent. We will keep you informed of your legal options and help you make informed decisions about your case.
If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Buffalo, New York, we at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC are here to help. We have the experience, knowledge, and resources necessary to collect evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and file a lawsuit if necessary. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.