As a rideshare driver who is providing a valuable service for those in need of transportation, it is important to your business to ensure the safety and well-being of your passengers. The initial moments after an accident are scary, but also critical, and your actions can significantly impact the outcome if things are serious.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to prioritize passenger care after a car accident:
1. Assess the Situation
- Stop Safely: Pull your vehicle to a safe location, away from traffic.
- Turn on Hazards: This signals to other drivers that you’re stopped due to an accident.
- Evaluate Injuries: Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Prioritize those who appear to be seriously hurt.
2. Provide Immediate Assistance
- Call Emergency Services: If anyone is seriously injured or unresponsive, call 911 immediately. Provide your location and the nature of the emergency.
- Control Bleeding: If there’s bleeding, apply direct pressure to the wound until help arrives.
- Immobilize Injuries: If someone has a suspected broken bone or spinal injury, avoid moving them unless necessary to prevent immediate danger.
- Administer First Aid: If you have first aid training, use your skills to provide appropriate care, such as administering CPR.
3. Offer Comfort and Reassurance
- Calm Passengers: Speak calmly and reassuringly to your passengers, especially those who are injured or scared.
- Provide Support: Offer physical and emotional support, such as holding someone’s hand or providing words of encouragement.
- Distract Children: If children are involved, try to distract them from the situation with games or stories.
4. Communicate with Police & EMS Agents
- Follow Instructions: Cooperate with emergency responders and follow their instructions.
- Provide Information: When asked, provide your name, contact information, and details about the accident, including the other driver’s information.
- Be Honest: Be truthful and transparent with authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.
5. Document the Accident
- Take Photos: Capture images of the damaged vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
- Note Details: Write down the date, time, location, and the names and contact information of any witnesses.
6. Contact Your Ride-Sharing Company
- Report the Accident: Inform your ride-sharing company of the incident, providing details about the accident and the condition of your passengers.
- Follow Their Guidelines: Adhere to the company’s procedures for reporting accidents and handling insurance claims.
Car Accident And Workers’ Compensation Support From IDG Legal
Let us help you get the compensation you deserve to make the most of earnings while injured, or not able to work. If you are ever involved in a car accident, IDG Legal offers rideshare drivers access to a trusted network of lawyers who have experience in these types of accidents, and workers’ compensation cases with The Black Car Fund. Tap below to fill out a form for assistance today.