Brighton is a fast-growing area just northeast of Denver. Brighton offers outdoor space with the conveniences of living in a modern town. Even though most people in Brighton get around with their own vehicles, ride-hailing apps like Lyft and Uber provide an alternative to driving. However, just because you are riding in a rideshare vehicle does not mean you're not at risk of an accident.
Uber drivers, Lyft passengers, other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians may still be involved in an accident. Handling a car accident that involves a rideshare vehicle may be more complicated than other auto accidents. If you need help, talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer to help you deal with the insurance company and rideshare company.
5 Things to Do After a Lyft Accident in Brighton
Even if you know exactly what you are supposed to do after a vehicle accident in Colorado, you may feel lost immediately after the crash. The adrenaline could be flowing and tensions are high. It is important to stay calm and take the following steps after an accident in a ride-sharing vehicle.
1. Is everyone okay?
After a crash, safety is the most important thing. See if you are injured, if you notice bleeding, a head or neck ache, or problems moving around. If you are not injured, see if anyone else may be injured in the accident. If anyone is injured or may be injured, call 9-1-1.
2. Get the contact information for everyone involved.
Gather information at the scene of the accident. At a minimum, get the contact information for all parties involved. This includes the name, contact information, driver's license, vehicle license plate number, and insurance information. You may also want to get the information for witnesses, take pictures of the accident scene, or take a video of the surroundings.
3. Report the accident to the police or Colorado DMV.
Colorado law requires drivers to report any accident, even minor accidents. The police may not show up unless someone is injured or the vehicles are blocking traffic. If the police do not investigate the crash, you still have to file an accident report with law enforcement or the Colorado DMV.
4. Report the accident to your insurance company.
Your insurance company generally requires you to report any accident, even a minor accident. The other driver's insurance may also want to talk to you but be careful, because the other insurance company may try to get you to say something to deny your claim. Let your lawyer deal with the insurance company instead.
5. Contact a local accident lawyer to help you recover damages.
In a minor fender bender, you may not feel the need to call a lawyer. However, if you suffered injuries, lost income because you couldn't go to work, or the insurance company is giving you problems, a simple phone call can make a big difference. The insurance companies are used to getting away with paying out as little as possible. A Colorado accident lawyer can deal with the insurance company to make sure you get the maximum compensation available
After an Injury Accident in Brighton
The following includes contact information for reporting the accident and getting help after an injury.
ER and Emergency Departments Near Brighton
There are a few emergency departments in and around the Brighton area, including:
- Platte Valley Medical Center ER
- UCHealth Emergency Room in Commerce City
- North Suburban Medical Center - Northeast ER
Reporting a Brighton Auto Accident
Drivers have to report any traffic accident in Colorado. Accidents can be reported online through the Division of Motor Vehicles. If you call the police after an accident, they may only respond to the accident if the accident involved:
- Serious injury or death
- Vehicles disabled in the road
- A suspected drunk driver
- A hit and run driver
Responding law enforcement officers in Brighton may include:
Reporting an Accident to Lyft or Uber
If you are a Lyft driver or Uber driver involved in an accident, the rideshare companies require you to report an accident. The first thing the rideshare company is likely to do is remove you from rideshare availability. Even if there is no damage to the vehicle, you will likely have to prove there is no damage before they will reactivate your account.
Uber or Lyft may only provide coverage if the crash occurred during the time when the passenger was in the vehicle. If the crash occurred at any other time, like after dropping off the passenger, you will most likely not be covered by the rideshare company. However, be aware that dealing with the insurance company can be challenging, especially when more than one insurance company may be involved. Consider talking to a Colorado accident lawyer to make sure you have someone on your side to fight for your rights.
Injured After a Lyft or Uber Ride in Brighton, Colorado
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Brighton, contact accidentdenver.com. Our experienced Colorado auto accident attorneys will fight to get the maximum compensation available for your injuries. Do not accept an insurance settlement offer before understanding your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.