Getting into an accident while riding in an Uber or Lyft can be confusing. Many people are unsure who is responsible or what to do next. Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, the steps you take right after a rideshare accident in Las Vegas can make a big difference in protecting your health and your rights.
1. Check For Injuries And Call 911
Your safety comes first. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Even if the crash seems minor, request a police officer to come to the scene. An official police report will document important details such as the location, time, and people involved, which can help later when insurance companies review the claim.
2. Get Medical Attention
Some injuries do not appear immediately after an accident. Go to the hospital or see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine at first. Medical records create a timeline that connects your injuries to the crash, which is important for insurance purposes.
3. Gather Information From Everyone Involved
Get the following details from all drivers and passengers involved:
- Full names and contact information
- Driver’s license numbers
- License plate numbers
- Insurance information
- Uber or Lyft driver profile and vehicle details
If you were a passenger, open your rideshare app and take screenshots of the trip information, including the driver’s name, vehicle description, and time of the ride.
4. Take Photos And Videos
Document the rideshare accident scene as thoroughly as possible. Take pictures of all vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. If there were witnesses nearby, ask for their names and phone numbers. This kind of evidence can be critical later, especially if insurance companies dispute what happened.
5. Report The Accident To Uber Or Lyft
Both Uber and Lyft have in-app options for reporting accidents. Open your app, go to the “Help” section, and select “Trip Issues and Refunds,” then “Accident.” Provide basic information about what happened. Do not go into detail or discuss fault. Uber and Lyft will notify their insurance providers to begin an internal review.
6. Be Cautious When Speaking With Insurance Companies
After a rideshare crash, several insurance policies may apply — your driver’s, Uber or Lyft’s, and possibly your own. You may hear from multiple adjusters. Be polite, but do not provide recorded statements or accept settlement offers before you fully understand who is responsible and what coverage applies.
In Nevada, Uber and Lyft are required to carry commercial insurance when their drivers are logged into the app or transporting passengers. Coverage can vary depending on whether the driver was waiting for a ride request, on the way to pick someone up, or already transporting a passenger.
7. Save All Documentation
Keep copies of everything related to the crash, including:
- Medical bills and treatment notes
- Police report and incident number
- Communications with Uber, Lyft, or insurance companies
- Screenshots of your ride receipt and app messages
Staying organized helps ensure nothing important is lost and makes it easier to follow up later if issues arise.
8. Follow Up On Your Medical Care
Continue seeing your doctor until you have fully recovered. Follow all medical advice, attend follow-up appointments, and keep a journal of your symptoms and recovery progress. Detailed records help demonstrate the full impact of your injuries if questions come up later.
9. Consider Speaking With A Las Vegas Rideshare Accident Lawyer
Rideshare accidents can involve multiple insurance companies, drivers, and policies, which makes them more complicated than a standard car accident. A local Las Vegas attorney familiar with Uber and Lyft regulations can help you understand the process and explain your options before you make any major decisions.
Free Uber and Lyft Accident Checklist
You can download a free printable version of this guide to keep on your phone. It outlines the key steps to take after a rideshare crash, what information to collect, and how to report it correctly.