You were just trying to get from point A to point B—then everything changed. The crash happened in seconds, but the aftermath could stretch on for months or years. You’re dealing with hospitalization, surgeries, time off work—and you’re not even sure who’s supposed to pay for it all.
In serious rideshare accidents, the road to recovery can feel impossible without the right support. Pete Olson Injury Law is here to guide you through it. With decades of experience holding powerful companies and insurers accountable, we know how to help Tennesseans like you take back control.
If you or a loved one suffered catastrophic injuries in an Uber or Lyft crash, here’s what you need to know right now.
Calling 911 Is the First Step Toward Protecting Yourself
In a major crash, calling emergency services isn’t just about getting help—it’s about preserving evidence, documenting injuries, and laying the foundation for any future legal claim.
Police reports, EMT evaluations, and statements collected at the scene can all play a critical role. Even if someone suggests handling things privately, don’t skip this step. Without a formal report, proving what happened becomes significantly harder.
Medical Documentation Can Make or Break Your Case
When you’ve suffered serious injuries—whether it’s internal bleeding, head trauma, or spinal damage—documented medical treatment is essential. It not only supports your recovery but also creates the record needed to prove the full extent of your damages.
Insurance companies look for gaps in treatment or signs of noncompliance. Every appointment, prescription, and test result builds your case.
Key records to retain:
- Hospital intake and discharge summaries
- Surgery reports and imaging scans
- Notes from specialists, physical therapists, or neurologists
- Proof of time missed from work due to injury
Preserving Evidence Is Crucial in the Days After the Crash
If you’re able—or if a trusted friend or family member can assist—start gathering evidence as soon as possible. Rideshare accidents are often complex, and the more documentation you have, the better.
Essential items include:
- Photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and injuries
- Screenshots of your Uber or Lyft app trip history
- Driver details, vehicle info, and any in-app communications
- Contact info for witnesses, including passengers or bystanders
If you were too injured to collect evidence at the scene, don’t worry—it may still be possible to retrieve surveillance footage or obtain ride data from the company. A lawyer can help facilitate this.
Multiple Parties May Be Liable for Your Injuries
Liability in rideshare cases is often more complicated than a traditional two-car crash. Depending on the circumstances, responsibility may fall on:
- The rideshare driver, if they were distracted, speeding, or failed to follow traffic laws
- Another driver, if their reckless actions caused the collision
- The rideshare company, under certain limited circumstances related to background checks, app functionality, or safety protocols
- A vehicle manufacturer or municipality, in cases involving mechanical failures or unsafe road conditions
Each scenario comes with its own set of insurance challenges. That’s why seriously injured victims need a legal team who understands the nuances of rideshare injury litigation.
Insurance Companies Move Fast—But Not in Your Favor
You may get a phone call just days after the crash, asking for a statement or offering a quick settlement. These offers rarely reflect the real value of your claim—especially when you’re facing long-term medical needs.
Insurers often hope that injured passengers and drivers won’t know their rights. They use delay tactics, minimize injuries, or try to shift blame. Don’t fall into the trap.
An experienced Tennessee rideshare injury lawyer can:
- Handle all communication with the insurance companies
- Coordinate medical and financial documentation
- Seek testimony from expert witnesses to support your case
- Push back against unfair settlement offers
- Fight for the full compensation you’re owed
Moving Forward After a Catastrophic Rideshare Crash
When a routine Uber or Lyft ride turns into a medical crisis, your world doesn’t just change—it stops. Between the hospital stays, lost wages, and emotional trauma, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
But you're not powerless. With the right guidance, you can begin to put the pieces back together. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, navigating insurance delays, or simply trying to understand what happens next, know this: your experience matters, and help is available.