What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Louisiana?

Rideshare accidents aren’t something most of us plan for, but if you’ve found yourself in a fender-bender with a Lyft or Uber in Louisiana, don’t panic. Knowing what to do after a rideshare accident in Louisiana could make all the difference when going after the compensation you deserve. So, whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, it’s important to know the right steps to take after the incident.

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

Even if the accident seems minor, you should contact the police. The police can create a report that documents the incident, which can serve as an important piece of evidence in your case. In Louisiana, police reports are typically available to the public, and the report includes key details like the time, location, and the names of any involved parties.

Be sure to ask for a copy of the report or the case number so that your lawyer can get it later. Additionally, the police can assist in determining the fault of the accident, which can be important when it comes to filing claims.

2. Call the Police

Even if the accident seems minor, you should contact the police. The police can create a report that documents the incident, which can serve as an important piece of evidence in your case. In Louisiana, police reports are typically available to the public, and the report includes key details like the time, location, and the names of any involved parties.

Be sure to ask for a copy of the report or the case number so that your lawyer can get it later. Additionally, the police can assist in determining the fault of the accident, which can be important when it comes to filing claims.

3. Gather Evidence

Evidence is vital for any accident claim, especially in Louisiana, where local and state laws can get complicated when it comes to accident liability. If you’re physically able, gather as much information as you can, including:

• Take photos: Snap pictures of the scene, damages to all vehicles involved, license plates, and any visible injuries.
• Collect driver information: Get the name, contact details, and insurance information of the rideshare driver, as well as the other drivers involved, if applicable.
• Witness Statements: If there are any accident witnesses, ask for their contact information and find out if they’re willing to provide statements.
• Traffic Cam Footage: In larger cities like New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette, traffic cameras may have recorded the incident. Your lawyer can request footage for evidence.

The more evidence you gather, the better prepared you will be to present a strong case in court, if needed.

4. Report the Accident to the Rideshare Company

After the accident, you need to inform the rideshare company — Uber, Lyft, or any other service you were using — about the incident. Each company has a specific procedure for reporting accidents, and you may need to fill out an online form or speak directly to a representative. This is important because the rideshare company’s insurance policy may be involved in covering your damages, depending on the circumstances of the crash.

In Louisiana, rideshare companies typically provide insurance coverage when the driver is logged into the app and on their way to pick up or transport passengers. However, the coverage can vary depending on things like whether the driver was actively engaged with the app at the time of the accident.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

In addition to contacting the rideshare company, you should also notify your personal car insurance provider about the accident. Even if you weren’t the driver, your policy may come into play if there are gaps in coverage through the rideshare company’s insurance. Louisiana follows a fault-based system for accidents, which means the responsible party is required to compensate the injured party for damages.

If you were a passenger, the rideshare company’s insurance policy may cover the costs. However, it’s essential to involve your own insurance company as well to protect yourself from any potential issues later.

6. Keep Track of All Medical Bills and Expenses

Medical treatment can quickly become expensive, and in Louisiana, insurance companies often try to reduce payouts. Keep meticulous records of all your medical bills, prescription costs, and any other expenses related to your damage recovery. This includes physical therapy, follow-up appointments, and any out-of-pocket costs you incur while seeking treatment.

Additionally, if you miss work due to injuries sustained in the accident, keep documentation of lost wages and any other economic losses, like the cost of traveling to and from medical appointments.

7. Contact an Attorney

After a rideshare accident, it’s highly advisable to reach out to an experienced attorney in Louisiana, like Chris Villemarette. Rideshare accidents can be complicated, especially with multiple insurance policies involved, and an experienced attorney can help guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected.

FAQs

Q: What Should I Do If the Rideshare Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?

A: If the rideshare driver doesn’t have insurance, you may still be able to recover compensation through the rideshare company’s insurance policy. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft often provide coverage for incidents involving their drivers. However, if there are gaps in coverage, your own auto insurance policy, especially uninsured motorist accident coverage, may also help cover your damages.

Q: What If the Accident Was Caused by Another Driver, Not the Rideshare Driver?

A: If another driver caused the accident, you can file a claim with that driver’s insurance company to seek compensation. Louisiana follows a fault-based system, which means the responsible driver’s insurance should cover your damages. If there is a dispute about fault, your attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and protect your interests throughout the claims process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Q: Can I File a Direct Claim Against the Rideshare Driver for My Injuries?

A: In most cases, filing a direct claim against the rideshare driver isn’t necessary, as the rideshare company’s insurance typically covers accidents that happen while the driver is on the job. However, if the driver was off-duty or acting negligently, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against them. A lawyer can guide you on whether personal liability applies to your situation.

Q: What Happens If I Was Partially at Fault in the Accident?

A: Louisiana operates under a comparative fault system, which means even if you’re partially responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages, but the compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Suppose you are found to be 30% responsible for the accident. Your settlement would then be reduced by 30% of the requested amount.

Protect Your Rights After a Rideshare Accident

Being involved in a rideshare accident in Louisiana can be overwhelming. However, understanding the steps to take and the laws that apply can make a significant difference in your case. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, don’t navigate this complex process alone. At Chris Villemarette, Trial Lawyer, we’re ready to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.