4 Tips to Help Strengthen Your Rideshare Accident Claim
In the wake of a crash involving an Uber or Lyft driver, it can be challenging to figure out whether you have the right ingredients for a strong case. While you might be certain that the other driver was at fault, the success of your claim will likely hinge on the strength of the evidence you’ve gathered.
However, this is not the only factor to consider. For example, any mistakes you made in the days following the collision could come back to haunt you, leaving you on the back foot and in danger of missing out on compensation.
To help you navigate the days ahead, we’ve compiled a few tips that could help protect your claim:
Start Gathering Proof Immediately
Every successful claim is built on a foundation of compelling evidence. However, some of the proof you will need to demonstrate certain aspects of your case can be time-sensitive. For example, eyewitnesses can start to forget what they saw, surveillance camera recordings are routinely erased every few weeks, and road markings can fade overnight.
As such, if you are physically able to do so, you should begin scouring the wreckage for any evidence that could help support your claim. For instance, you can use your smartphone to take photographs of all the different elements of the accident scene as images can often help provide clear insight into what exactly happened on that fateful day.
Additionally, if someone else saw the accident take place, you should note down their contact details as they may be able to corroborate your version of events. If someone recorded footage of the wreck on their car’s dashcam—or a nearby security camera captured the ordeal—you should request copies of these recordings before they are erased.
Deactivate Your Social Media Profiles
If you’re planning to file a personal injury claim, your social media activity can be like kryptonite for your chances of success. The insurance company may be able to leverage your posts as evidence to challenge your credibility or dispute certain aspects of your case, so it’s important to avoid using sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter while your claim is still pending.
In most cases, it’s advisable to disable your accounts as this will prevent other parties from monitoring your activity. However, if you’re unable to unplug, you should at least update your privacy settings to ensure that only approved friends or followers can see your posts.
Schedule a Comprehensive Medical Assessment
Visiting the doctor is one of the most important steps you should take after a wreck. Not only will this ensure you receive prompt treatment for your injuries, but it could also help you avoid delays, disputes, and other challenges during proceedings. For instance, if you failed to get a diagnosis within a reasonable timeframe, the insurer may have room to assert that your injuries aren’t connected to the incident in question.
Log Your Damages
In a personal injury claim, you will only receive compensation for the damages that you can demonstrate. As such, it’s important to save copies of any associated bills, receipts, and invoices as you will likely need to present these as part of your claim.
Additionally, if you experienced significant pain, emotional trauma, and/or limitations because of the accident and your injuries, you should be writing daily entries in a personal injury journal. A post-accident diary will give you the space to describe your recovery in detail, granting others a window into how you have suffered because of the wreck. Your attorney may use your entries in conjunction with other proof to help build a case for non-economic damages.
Speak to a California Rideshare Accident Attorney Today
While Uber and Lyft rides are a convenient way to get around, a serious wreck involving one of these drivers can turn a trouble-free arrangement into a living nightmare. Thankfully, the legal team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers is ready to step in and help you seek compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and other losses.
We have a track record of success representing accident victims throughout the state, helping our clients secure hundreds of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts. Reach out to us today at 1-800-GO-HARRIS or swing by our Contact Page to lock in a free case review with a California rideshare accident attorney.
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