Car accidents are traumatic. However, depending on the severity of the collision, they can also be life-altering. While ridesharing is a standard practice anymore, putting your life in a stranger’s vehicle is always a risk. However, whether you are in an accident while taking a Lyft or in a crash caused by a Lyft driver, your immediate reactions should be the same.
- Check for Injuries
Take a breath and assess the situation. You were just in an accident, and you need to make sure that you are thinking clearly. Therefore, don’t react. Calm yourself and look for any signs of injury. If you are OK, then check your passengers.
- Call 911
Once you have gathered and assessed yourself, see if you can get to your phone and call 911. If you can’t, it’s OK. More than likely, witnesses or the other driver has called. However, if you can get to a phone, it is helpful for 911 to hear from you so they can better prepare emergency services about your condition.
- Get to Safety
Once you know you are OK and have called 911, get to safety. While your vehicle may seem perfectly safe, cars that have been in accidents can act uncharacteristically. Also, your car might be sitting in a precarious position that leaves you vulnerable to further harm if you stay. It is better to get to the side of the road or a median.
- Wait for Emergency Services
While adrenaline will be pumping through your veins, possibly making you anxious and restless, you must stay put. Do not give in to fear and do not run. Running creates legal troubles that no one needs. Wait for emergency services and answer any questions the police may have. Also, take this time to share your version of the event.
- Document the Scene
Next, document the scene by taking pictures and video. It is often better to wait for the police to arrive and ask for permission. By asking for permission, you can avoid any potential frustration in other drivers or passengers.
- Gather Contact Information
Finally, gather the contact information of all essential parties. You will want the information about the Lyft driver and their employer. You will also want to collect the contact info of any willing witnesses.
The aftermath of any car accident is scary, but as long as you follow the above steps, you should be able to calm your nerves. However, to ensure that you get restitution for your injuries, especially when the accident involved a Lyft driver, contact an experienced car accident lawyer in Trenton, NJ.
Thanks to Davis & Brusca for their insight into personal injury claims and lyft accidents.