What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Texas

Many Texans now depend on rideshare services, such as Uber and Lyft, which have totally changed their transportation methods. Whether you’re located in major cities such as Houston or Austin or in small towns like Abilene or Waco, you can connect to a fast ride with a single tap. However, these conveniences don’t come without their share of accidents. Knowing what to do after a rideshare accident in Texas can enable you to have a better outcome if you’re ever in an accident.

The ease of rideshare services introduces risks that become more pronounced because of Texas’s growing road congestion. Texas documented 4,283 traffic deaths in 2023, along with thousands of serious injuries. Almost a quarter of these deaths were caused by drunk drivers. Uber and Lyft advertise their safety benefits, but their vehicles still frequently become involved in accidents.

Taking immediate and appropriate action after a rideshare accident as a passenger, driver, or pedestrian significantly impacts your situation. Your health status, along with your ability to pursue legal options and obtain compensation, could be influenced by your actions following the accident.

Seek Medical Attention

You should always put your health first above all else. Adrenaline can conceal the manifestations of severe injuries, like concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue harm, even when you feel alright. According to TxDOT figures from 2023, Texas crash incidents caused serious injuries to more than 18,000 individuals.

Get emergency assistance right at the accident location when required. Visit an urgent care facility or hospital close to you immediately if your injuries are not life-threatening but require attention. Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin, and Ben Taub Hospital in Houston have the necessary equipment to treat accident trauma.

Medical records become essential proof for insurance or legal claims while simultaneously protecting your well-being. Maintain copies of your treatment plans and prescriptions while saving expense receipts, as they are critical documentation for your case.

Report the Accident to Law Enforcement

Texas law demands that motorists inform the police about accidents that result in injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000. That covers almost every rideshare accident. If you find yourself on I-35 in San Antonio or Loop 289 in Lubbock, you should contact 911 at once to request police assistance at the location.

The officer will then create an official crash report, known as a CR-3, to record key data, such as:

• The drivers’ details
• Time and location of the incident,
• Road conditions at the time of the crash
• Statements from all the involved parties

The official crash report serves as crucial evidence when establishing liability.

When the accident takes place in a big metro area, your case will likely fall under the jurisdiction of that city, such as the Houston Police Department, the Austin Police Department, or the Fort Worth Police Department. Police jurisdiction in rural areas falls under both local sheriff’s departments and the Texas Highway Patrol.

Gather Evidence From the Scene

If you can physically manage it, you should collect evidence from the crash site while waiting for law enforcement to reach your location. The compiled documentation will become critical evidence for subsequent insurance claims or legal proceedings. Be sure to collect:

• Photos and videos of the accident scene
• Screenshots of your rideshare ride details
• Contact information of everyone involved in the accident
• Your own notes about what happened

Communicate With the Rideshare Company and Insurance Providers

After filing a police report and getting medical attention, you must report the crash to the rideshare company.

After the report submission process, you will likely receive communication from either a company employee or the insurance provider. You should be careful because anything you say can be used to reduce or reject your claim. Always present the truth without admitting fault during your conversation. You should seek legal advice before agreeing to provide a recorded statement or accepting a quick settlement from the insurance company.

Seek Legal Assistance

Rideshare accidents typically include multiple involved parties, intricate insurance policies, and unclear liability assignments. The complexity of rideshare accidents requires the experience of a seasoned Texas rideshare accident lawyer. A lawyer can determine liability between the rideshare driver and others, manage insurance claims, and protect against unfair settlements.

FAQs

What Happens If an Uber Driver Gets in an Accident?

If an Uber driver gets in an accident, their insurance coverage is determined by whether they were using the app. Their personal insurance is applicable if they are offline. Uber’s commercial coverage might cover injuries and damages if they’re online or transporting a passenger. In addition to reporting the accident to Uber, anyone involved may submit claims to the relevant insurance company.

What Happens If You Don’t Report an Accident Within 24 Hours in Texas?

If you don’t report an accident within 24 hours in Texas, you can face severe penalties, especially if the crash caused injury, death, or over $1,000 in damage. Your insurance claim might be negatively impacted if you delay reporting because insurance companies typically need immediate notification. If you fail to report qualifying accidents to law enforcement in Texas, you may face fines and legal issues.

Does Uber Compensate for Accidents?

Yes, Uber compensates for accidents under certain circumstances. Uber pays compensation through its insurance policy if a driver gets into an accident while operating the app. The insurance policy covers liability costs up to $1 million for drivers when they are transporting passengers or driving to pick up passengers. Medical expenses, lost income, and property damage may be compensated based on fault determination and accident specifics.

Do You Have to Call the Police After an Accident in Texas?

Texas law mandates drivers to contact law enforcement if they are involved in an accident that results in injuries, death, or property damage that surpasses $1,000. A police report serves as an official document, which is essential for both insurance claims and legal proceedings. You could face legal issues, such as fines or hit-and-run charges, if you neglect to report an accident.

Contact Us Today to Get help With Rideshare Accident Cases

Most people do not expect a rideshare ride to end in an accident. When it does, being prepared can greatly benefit you. The Law Offices of Miller & Bicklein, P.C., can represent you during this process. Contact us today to find out more.