Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

Immediate Safety First

After a rideshare accident in California, your safety comes before anything else. Whether you are a passenger, driver, or pedestrian, getting to a secure location should be your first priority. If you are able, check for injuries and help others move away from traffic. California’s traffic accident guidelines stress the importance of protecting yourself and others from further harm.

• Move to a safe area if possible
• Check yourself and others for injuries
• Call 911 for urgent medical needs or hazards
• Use hazard lights to alert oncoming vehicles

Many rideshare accidents in California traffic involve multiple vehicles, so staying alert is crucial. If you suspect someone is seriously hurt, do not attempt to move them unless there is immediate danger.

Contact Law Enforcement

California law requires you to report accidents involving injuries or significant property damage. Even if you believe the accident is minor, it’s wise to have an official record. Contacting local law enforcement not only fulfills legal requirements but also helps document the scene for your future claim.

• Call the police, especially if anyone is hurt
• Request that an officer comes to the scene
• Obtain the police report number

A police report is often essential in proving fault in a car accident case or when dealing with insurance companies.

Gather Crucial Evidence

Collecting evidence is one of the most important steps after any traffic accident, but it’s especially critical in a rideshare crash. The complexity of insurance coverage and liability makes detailed records invaluable.

• Take photos or video of vehicles, street signs, and injuries
• Get the rideshare driver’s name, contact, and app profile
• Record the license plate and make/model of all vehicles
• Save screenshots of your rideshare trip in the app
• Collect contact details for witnesses

If you are unsure which evidence matters most, see our article on steps to take after a car accident to protect your claim.

Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Even if your injuries seem minor, get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some symptoms may take hours or days to appear, and prompt care helps connect your injuries to the accident for insurance and legal purposes.

• Visit an urgent care or emergency room
• Follow up with your primary care physician
• Keep all medical records and receipts

California law recognizes the importance of early diagnosis in personal injury claims, and delays in treatment can make it harder to recover compensation.

Report the Accident in the Rideshare App

Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies require accidents to be reported through their apps. Do this as soon as possible, following the in-app prompts. This creates a record with the company and triggers their insurance process.

• Open the ride receipt and look for “Help” or “Report an Issue”
• Accurately describe what happened
• Save confirmation of your report

Rideshare companies have specific insurance coverage depending on the stage of the ride, so proper reporting is essential.

Exchange Information with All Parties

In addition to the rideshare driver, be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with all involved drivers and affected parties. California’s accident reporting requirements apply to everyone involved.

• Names, phone numbers, and addresses
• Insurance provider and policy numbers
• Rideshare company/driver details

This information is necessary for pursuing a rideshare accident claim and communicating with insurers.

Notify Your Own Insurance Company

California drivers and passengers should notify their own insurer after any accident, even if you were a rideshare passenger. Your policy may provide additional coverage, such as medical payments or uninsured motorist protection.

• Contact your insurance agent promptly
• Provide basic facts, not speculation
• Ask what coverage may apply

Be honest and factual, but avoid admitting fault or making official statements before speaking to an attorney.

Document Everything

Keep detailed notes about the accident and its aftermath. This includes pain levels, missed work, doctor visits, and any communication with insurance companies or rideshare platforms.

• Start a daily journal of symptoms and recovery
• Save copies of all correspondence
• Organize medical bills and repair estimates

Strong documentation can support your claim for damages and help your lawyer build a strong case.

Watch for Insurance Company Contacts

Rideshare insurance claims often involve multiple companies, including the rideshare company, the driver’s insurer, and insurers for other vehicles. Adjusters may contact you for statements.

• Politely decline to give recorded statements until you consult a lawyer
• Do not accept early settlement offers without legal advice
• Keep records of all calls and emails

Insurance adjusters work for their companies, not for you. For more help, see our article on who is liable for a rideshare accident.

Protect Your Legal Rights

California law offers protections for rideshare accident victims, but strict time limits apply. You generally have two years to file a claim for personal injury, and a shorter window for property damage. If the accident involved a government entity (such as a public bus), additional rules may apply.

• Act quickly to preserve evidence
• Consult an attorney before important deadlines pass

For more on compensation, read about common injuries in rideshare accident claims.

Know Your Potential Damages

Rideshare accident victims in California may be entitled to various forms of compensation, depending on the circumstances:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Emotional distress

Learn more about personal injury damages and what to expect from the legal process.

When to Call an Attorney

Rideshare crashes can involve multiple insurance policies, complex liability questions, and aggressive negotiations. Talking to an experienced California attorney can help you understand your options and avoid costly mistakes.

• If you’re facing serious injuries or disputed liability
• When insurance companies are delaying or denying claims
• If you’re unsure how to report the accident

Attain Law’s team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and advocate for your rights.

What to Do Next

If you were injured in a rideshare accident in California, taking the right steps early can make all the difference. The attorneys at Attain Law can help with your claim, whether you were a passenger, driver, or pedestrian. For more information about related topics, explore our resources on car accidents, pedestrian accidents, and bicycle accidents.

If you’re ready to discuss your situation, call us at (888) 970-8627 or contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions about Steps to Take After a Rideshare Accident

What information should I collect after a rideshare accident in California? You should collect the rideshare driver’s name, contact information, app profile, vehicle details, names and insurance information from other involved drivers, photos of the scene, and contact information for witnesses. Also, save a screenshot of your trip details in the app.

Do I need to report a rideshare accident to the police in California? Yes, you should report any accident involving injuries or significant property damage to the police. A police report can be vital for insurance and legal purposes.

Should I notify the rideshare company after an accident? Yes, you should report the accident through the rideshare app (Uber, Lyft, etc.) as soon as possible to start the insurance process and document the event.

How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim in California? You typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in California. Claims involving government vehicles may have shorter deadlines.

Can I recover damages if I was a passenger in a rideshare accident? Yes, as a passenger, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses, depending on the facts of your case and available insurance.

Disclaimer: This is an advertisement. The information provided is for general purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a qualified attorney for your specific case. Attain Law cannot guarantee outcomes, as results vary by situation.