Top 10 Questions to Ask an Uber or Lyft Rideshare Accident Witness

Uber or Lyft, Rideshare accidents in California

Services like Uber and Lyft have been a part of many Californians’ daily life, increasingly so in the state’s most congested areas. But when a rideshare trip ends in a crash, the legal aftermath can be anything but ordinary. These are typically cases with multiple defendants, layers of insurance and corporate responsibility.

Witness Testimonies If you have suffered an injury as a rideshare passenger, as a result of an Uber or Lyft accident, another driver, a pedestrian, or a cyclist, securing witness testimony can make a significant difference in your case by helping you obtain as much compensation as possible.

At Beverly Hills Injury Firm, we intend to make sure you are ready. Below, we list the 10 most important questions to ask a rideshare accident witness, so your attorney can have the best possible understanding of what happened.

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#2. Where were You When the Accident Happened?

The witness’s location matters. Were they in another car, on the sidewalk, or nearby as the authorities shut down the area? Being seen close up and in plain sight can make their word more trustworthy for insurance adjusters and the court.

#3. Did You Observe Whether the Uber or Lyft Driver Was Distracted?

Ask them if they observed the rideshare driver talking on his/her phone, looking at his/her GPS instead of at the road, conversing with passengers, or exhibiting other signs of distraction or fatigue. Distracted driving is among the top causes of rideshare accidents.

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#4. Was One of the Vehicles Speeding, Swerving or Driving Aggressively?

The response to this question begins the search for acts of negligent or reckless driving of either the Uber/Lyft driver or the other vehicle. Fault can be demonstrated through speeding, quick lane changes, or failure to yield.

#5. Did You Hear anything said After the Crash?

Inquire about whether the witness heard statements from other drivers, individuals in either vehicle, or rideshare employees, including apologies, accusatory statements, or admissions of fault.

#6. Did You Notice the Rideshare App or Company Labels?

Uber and Lyft drivers have a decal or placard on their windshield or back window. Ask the witness if they observed any identification listed, whether the driver told them that the were “on a trip.” This can help demonstrate that the driver was actively working for rideshare services at the time, and may have ramifications on which insurance policies apply.

#7. Any Traffic Lights, Signs, or Weather Conditions You Believe Played a Role?

This question can help determine if lack of visibility, obstructed signage, malfunctioning traffic signals, or roadway hazards were contributing factors. Doing so can serve to transfer or share responsibility with cities or third parties when required.

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#8. Was a Photo or Video Taken?

Crash scenes are instinctively recorded by many witnesses with their phones. Inquire whether they captured photos of the accident, license plates, the driver, or the rideshare app interface. Such media could serve as crucial evidence.

#9. Did You Communicate With Any Other Witnesses or Authorities?

If they had contact with other by-standers or they gave a statement to police this could also generate other corroborating witnesses or official reports. If you can, get names or badge numbers.

#10. Can I have your contact details for further legal options?

This is arguably the most crucial step. Gather their:

full name

phone number

email address

Insurance Information

and if they’re comfortable. Tell them an attorney might be in touch to interview them for a statement or deposition.

Navigating the Legal Process

Beverly Hills Injury firm has represented many clients involved in Uber or Lyft accidents in California. We know the tricks that these companies use to limit payouts, and we know how to fight back. When we represent you, we provide you with the quick and not lazy response your case qualifies for. We fight for maximum compensation for your injuries, time, and future, and you don’t pay unless we win.

- - - - Medical expenses
        
        Lost wages
        
        Pain and suffering
        
        Property damage
        
        Emotional distress

Their messages can also counter misinformation surfacing from the opposing party.
What You Should Do Following a Rideshare Accident
If you have been in an Uber or Lyft accident, do the following:

Dial 911 and make certain an official accident report is taken.

Prompt medical attention should be sought despite the appearance of minor injuries.

Capture the scene, with the driver’s information, the license plates and the rideshare trip status.

Ask each witness these 10 questions, and get his or her contact information.

Before spreading the news to Uber, Lyft or even your own insurance company, call Beverly Hills Injury Firm.

If you were involved in a rideshare accident, call us today at Beverly Hills Injury Firm! We will take the fight to the courts while you concentrate on getting better.

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Note: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

FOUNDER & TRIAL ATTORNEY

Meet Shawn Mangoli

“Shawn Mangoli, the founder of Beverly Hills Injury Firm, is a distinguished trial attorney specializing in personal injury law. With a decade of experience in civil litigation, Shawn has successfully championed the rights of those injured due to negligence, securing numerous multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts. Recognized consistently by Super Lawyers and a respected member of the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles and American Attorneys for Justice, Shawn’s commitment to justice is profound and unwavering.”

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