Getting into a car accident is always stressful, especially if you’ve been injured. However, it can also be confusing if you end up getting hit by a DoorDash driver. It’s fair to wonder what your legal options are if you are planning on filing a personal injury claim. This is because like rideshare drivers, DoorDash drivers are considered independent contractors rather than employees of the company.
There are certain times when a DoorDash driver may be on duty and when they aren’t actively working. In order for the company to be considered at all liable for an accident, the driver must have been working and have the app open.
What Does DoorDash Require?
DoorDash requires all of its drivers, even though they are considered independent contractors, to carry their own personal car insurance policies. The minimum requirements set by their state is acceptable. At the same time, the company itself has insurance in place to cover any injuries and damages caused by their drivers.
It’s important to know that there are a few exceptions. If a DoorDash driver has an accident but doesn’t have their own auto insurance, there would be a problem that may result in having to sue the driver personally. The DoorDash insurance policy, which provides up to $1 million in coverage for injuries and property damage, would not kick in unless an insured driver’s own policy is exhausted.
Common Injuries After an Accident With a DoorDash Driver
If you’re involved in a car accident with a DoorDash driver, just as with a collision with any other driver, you can suffer injuries. Some of those injuries may even be serious, debilitating, disabling, or even fatal. Every accident is unique, with certain factors coming into play relating to the cause and the consequences. Obviously, the type of vehicle and its size is only one of those factors.
Regardless of the circumstances and factors surrounding an accident with a DoorDash driver, the following injuries are common:
• Amputation
• Back and neck injuries
• Broken bones
• Concussion
• Fractures
• Head injuries
• Spinal injuries
• Whiplash
• Death
What Should You Do After an Accident?
After you have been in a car accident with a DoorDash driver, there are certain steps you should take. However, it should be known that these are steps you should take after any vehicle accident involving any driver. These are the things that you need in order to ensure that you have the evidence necessary to support your personal injury claim.
The first thing you should do is call 911. It’s important that the police come whenever there are injuries and significant property damage. A police accident report will be made, which is important evidence to obtain for your case. Be sure to get the name and badge number of the responding officer and ask about getting a copy of the report.
Take photos of the accident scene and get the driver’s full name, contact information, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance information, and employer information. You will also want to get statements from witnesses. Get their full names and contact information as well.
Seeking medical attention is essential. You have to make sure you aren’t seriously injured or have some sort of internal injuries that could be very serious. You will also have evidence in the form of your medical bills and records.
Choosing a lawyer is imperative as well. You will be able to learn your legal options and go from there with your case. Your attorney will make sure your rights are fully protected and get you the compensation you deserve.
