Ridesharing: What to do if You are Involved in an Uber Accident
Do you use Uber or any other ridesharing service as your primary transport mechanism? Or, do you only call an Uber if you have to get to places like the airport? Have you been involved in an Uber accident? If so, have you been compensated for your injuries and other damage that might have occurred? Are you able to file a claim against Uber and its driver?
By way of answering these questions, let’s consider the following discussion.
Table of Contents
Rideshare Technology: What, why, and how?
The increasing and widespread adoption of the mobile device platform and its associated devices and technologies has led to its use as a multifunction tool, including accessing social media platforms, installing ridesharing apps like the Uber app, and communicating with family and friends via SMS, WhatsApp, and other communication channels.
Statistics show that there are 3.6 billion smartphone owners across the world. US numbers show that over 96% of Americans own a cell phone. Granted, not everyone owns a smartphone. In fact, only 81% of Americans own smartphones.
Why is this relevant?
Succinctly stated, a smartphone is a “mobile phone that includes advanced functionality beyond making phone calls and sending text messages.” It is essentially a minicomputer that can run mobile apps (software) as well the standard cell phone communication functionality such as make phone calls.
The only way to book an Uber is to download the app and use it to schedule a ride. Thus, you need a smartphone and the Uber app to schedule a ride. As an aside, ridesharing technology is aimed at streamlining the transportation industry. In summary, ridesharing makes it easier to get from A-B, without having to stand on the side of the road for a long time, waiting for a cab to drive past. All you do is open the app, check which Uber drivers are in your area, and schedule a ride through the app. The driver will get to your destination shortly after scheduling the ride.
Surviving an Uber accident
What happens if you are in an Uber accident? What do you do post-accident?
By way of answering this question, let’s consider what the Uber Accident Lawyer Chicago, IL, has to say:
Call the police
The first step, once the car has come to a complete stop, is to dial 911 and alert the police to the fact that there has been an accident. It’s also essential to get out of the car as soon as possible after the crash. There is a chance that the car might burst into flame as a consequence of the impact.
Document the scene of the accident
The next step is to collect the contact details of people who witnessed the accident. Take photos of the accident scene, the vehicle’s license plate, as well as the Uber’s driver’s permits and licenses.
Seek medical attention
It is essential to visit your doctor even if you have walked away from the accident, seemingly without any injuries. Whiplash is an injury that does not always appear straight after the accident, especially if it is a minor fender bender.
Final Thoughts
Once you have all of this information, the next step is to consult a ridesharing legal expert to discuss the veracity of filing a personal injury claim against Uber.