What to Do If You’re in an Accident While Riding in an Uber in NYC
Being in a car accident is frightening enough. When you’re a passenger in an Uber in New York City, the confusion can multiply. Who’s responsible? What should you do after an Uber accident? And how can you protect your health and legal rights? This guide will walk you through the critical steps to take after an Uber accident, with clear and practical advice tailored to New Yorkers.
Stay Safe and Assess for Injuries
In the immediate aftermath of a crash, your adrenaline may be high, but safety comes first. Look around and check yourself and others for injuries. If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 right away. Don’t assume someone else has already done it.
Even if you feel okay, it’s a good idea to visit a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms until hours or even days later. Getting medical documentation early can also support any future legal or insurance claims.
Call 911 and Report the Accident
Under New York law, any accident involving injuries or significant damage must be reported to the police. When officers arrive, inform them that you were a rideshare passenger. They’ll file an official report, which is critical if you later need to file a claim or lawsuit.
Also, don’t forget to report the Uber accident in NYC through the app. This step ensures there’s a record with Uber and helps trigger their insurance process.
Gather Key Information at the Scene
If you’re able, gather as much information as possible. This includes:
- Names and contact information of the Uber driver and other drivers
- License plate numbers
- Insurance details from all involved parties
- Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
- Screenshots of your Uber trip (receipt, route, pickup/drop-off times)
Take photos or videos of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, and any visible injuries. These details can be invaluable when filing a claim or speaking with an attorney.
Report the Incident to Uber
Using the Uber app, go to “Help” and select the trip in question. Choose the option to report the Uber accident in NYC, and provide as much information as possible. Uber typically responds quickly, and their support team may reach out for more details.
Know Your Rights as an Uber Passenger in NYC
Here’s some good news: as a passenger in an Uber accident, you’re typically not at fault. New York requires Uber and other rideshare services to carry a $1 million insurance policy for rides in progress. That means you may be covered for:
- Emergency medical expenses
- Ongoing treatment or rehabilitation
- Lost wages if you miss work
- Pain and suffering, depending on the injury’s severity
Understanding your Uber accident passenger rights is essential to ensure you don’t miss out on benefits you’re legally entitled to.
At Cohan Law Firm, we help victims of rideshare crashes in NYC understand these rights and act on them.
Learn more about our personal injury services here
Don’t Settle Too Quickly
You might receive a call or email from Uber’s insurance provider soon after the accident. They may offer you a settlement. It might seem tempting, especially if you’re stressed or in pain, but be careful.
Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements hoping you’ll accept before knowing the full extent of your injuries or legal rights. Don’t sign anything without speaking to an attorney who understands Uber insurance coverage for passengers.
At Cohan Law Firm, we regularly deal with insurance adjusters and know the tactics they use. We’re here to protect your interests.
Speak to an Experienced NYC Uber Accident Lawyer
Dealing with insurance companies, especially large ones like Uber’s, can be frustrating and confusing. A lawyer experienced in rideshare accident cases can:
- Help you understand your legal options
- Communicate with Uber and all insurance carriers involved
- Ensure your rights are protected from start to finish
- Pursue full compensation for all your losses
At Cohan Law Firm, we bring years of experience representing Uber accident victims and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After an Uber Accident: Step-by-Step Checklist
When panic sets in, it’s easy to forget what to do. Here’s a checklist for what to do after an Uber accident in NYC:
- Check yourself and others for injuries
- Call 911
- Get medical attention
- Take photos and gather witness information
- Report the Uber accident in NYC through the app
- Save all documents and receipts
- Avoid discussing fault
- Speak to a lawyer before speaking to insurance adjusters
These rideshare accident steps can help ensure your safety and protect your ability to file a claim.
Free Resources for Uber Passengers
We understand how disorienting an accident can be. That’s why we created tools just for you:
- Download our free Uber Accident Checklist to keep on hand in case of an emergency
- Contact us for a free consultation if you’ve been injured in an Uber accident in NYC
Our goal at Cohan Law Firm is to make the process as simple and supportive as possible.
Final Thoughts
If you’re reading this after experiencing an Uber passenger accident, know this: you are not alone. These accidents can be sudden, stressful, and confusing, but you have options. Taking the right steps early on can make all the difference.
Whether you’re a New Yorker commuting daily or a visitor just trying to get across town, you deserve to feel safe and supported. Cohan Law Firm is here to help victims of Uber accidents in NYC.
We’re not just legal experts. We’re advocates who understand what you’re going through and who will stand by your side every step of the way.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.