Getting into a rideshare accident in Minnesota can be confusing, as it involves more complicated issues of liability than a traditional car accident in Minneapolis. Knowing what steps to take after an Uber or Lyft accident can make it easier to get the case results you need. It is important to take certain actions for your physical and legal protection.
Check for Injuries
The Uber or Lyft driver should pull over immediately after the accident, in a location that is safe and out of the way of traffic. Ask the driver to pull over if he or she does not do so automatically. Check yourself and other passengers in the vehicle for injuries. If someone is hurt in your vehicle or the other car, the police need to be notified. Get medical care right away for your injuries.
Report the Crash
The police should be notified of a rideshare accident in Minnesota if it causes injuries, deaths, totals more than $1,000 in property damage, is a hit-and-run, or involves an uninsured/underinsured motorist. An officer can visit the scene and draft a police report with important details about the crash, such as the name of the rideshare driver, witness statements and a diagram of the accident. This report can serve as evidence during your injury claim.
You also need to report the accident to the rideshare company. Both Uber and Lyft have reporting options through the app, their websites or by calling their customer service lines. This will put you in contact with the rideshare company’s support team, which will ask you questions to begin processing your claim.
Collect Evidence
Whether you were in a rideshare vehicle, driving another car, or struck as a bicyclist or pedestrian, it is important to try to collect evidence at the scene of the crash before you leave. This can include the information of drivers and witnesses, photos of the scene, traffic or dashcam surveillance footage, and a screenshot of the ride information in the app.
You should also collect evidence of your injuries and losses in the aftermath of a rideshare accident. This may include copies of your medical records, hospital bills, lost income from missed workdays, photographs of your property damage, and an injury journal that documents your personal pain and suffering.
Understand Your Recovery Options
Rideshare accidents in Minnesota are typically covered by commercial insurance offered by Uber or Lyft. Both companies carry up to $1 million in coverage. The amount of coverage available will depend on the phase or period of the ride.
If the driver was not logged into a rideshare app at the time, only his or her personal insurance will apply to the claim. If the driver was logged in and waiting for a ride request, up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage is typically available. If the driver was on the way to pick up a ride or a passenger was in the vehicle, the full $1 million in liability coverage will apply.
Minnesota follows unique no-fault rules when it comes to liability for automobile accidents. This means your own personal injury protection (PIP) insurance will cover an accident involving your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault. If you were injured as a rideshare passenger, however, or if you suffered severe injuries, you can file a claim outside of the no-fault policy.
Contact a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Minnesota
Insurance companies can be difficult to negotiate with in the aftermath of a rideshare accident. It is generally in your best interest not to accept a quick settlement or give a recorded statement to an insurance company as an Uber or Lyft accident victim. Instead, contact an attorney for assistance. With the right Minneapolis injury attorney by your side, you can navigate the legal process with greater confidence and peace of mind.