How to Sue Uber for an Accident

To sue Uber for an accident, you should seek medical attention, report the accident to the police, and contact an Uber accident lawyer.

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving an Uber vehicle, you may be wondering about your legal options. Whether you were a passenger, a pedestrian, or another driver, pursuing compensation from Uber can be complex.

At Zanes Law, our Phoenix Uber accident lawyers specialize in helping victims navigate these claims and hold Uber accountable. Below, we break down the steps to suing Uber for an accident, providing detailed guidance to help you understand your rights and legal options.

Understanding Uber’s Legal Liability

Can You Sue Uber Directly?

Uber drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees, which complicates direct lawsuits against the company. This distinction allows Uber to distance itself from liability in many cases, but that does not mean you have no options for recovery.

Uber provides a $1 million insurance policy that may cover your injuries, depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash. While it may not always be possible to sue Uber directly, you may still be entitled to compensation through their insurance policies or by pursuing a claim against the driver or other responsible parties.

Third-Party Liability in Uber Accidents

In some situations, third parties may share responsibility for an Uber accident. These could include other negligent drivers, vehicle manufacturers if a mechanical failure contributed to the crash, or even government entities responsible for road maintenance.

Understanding all potential sources of compensation is essential to maximizing your recovery.

For a free legal consultation, call (866) 499-8989

Breaking Down Uber’s Insurance Policy

Uber’s insurance coverage is designed to protect passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians in case of an accident. However, the level of coverage depends on the driver’s status at the time of the incident:

• Driver Not Logged Into the Uber App: Uber provides no coverage. The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
• Driver Logged in but Without a Passenger: Uber provides contingent liability coverage of up to $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 total per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Driver Carrying a Passenger or en Route to Pick Up a Rider: Uber’s $1 million liability policy is in effect, which may provide significant coverage for injury claims.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial when determining how to proceed with your claim.

Essential Steps to Take When Suing Uber for an Accident

After being in an accident involving an Uber, you should follow these steps:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Your health is the top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not present symptoms right away.

Seeking medical care will also create an official record of your injuries, which is crucial for your claim. Prompt medical attention strengthens your case by linking your injuries directly to the accident.

2. Gather Evidence

To build a strong case, you’ll need as much evidence as possible:

• Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Collect contact information from the Uber driver, any other drivers involved, and witnesses.
• Obtain a copy of the police report, which may indicate who was at fault.
• Save Uber ride receipts and communications related to the trip.

A well-documented case makes it harder for insurance companies to dispute your claim.

3. Determine the Liable Party

Liability in Uber accidents can be complex. Potentially liable parties include:

• The Uber driver, if their negligence caused the accident.
• Another driver, if they were responsible for the crash.
• Uber’s insurance provider, if the driver was on duty at the time of the crash.
• A third party, such as a vehicle manufacturer or a government entity responsible for road maintenance.

A thorough investigation is necessary to determine fault and maximize your compensation.

4. File a Claim With Uber’s Insurance

Once you determine liability, you can file a claim with Uber’s insurance provider. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so it’s crucial to have legal representation to negotiate on your behalf. Zanes Law can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

5. Understand Potential Compensation

Compensation in Uber accident cases may include:

• Medical expenses: Covers hospital bills, rehabilitation, surgeries, and future medical costs.
• Lost wages: If your injury prevents you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income.
• Pain and suffering: Includes emotional distress, trauma, and diminished quality of life.
• Property damage: Covers vehicle repairs or replacement costs.

An attorney can assess your case’s value and fight for maximum compensation.

6. Consider Filing a Lawsuit

If Uber’s insurance company denies your claim or offers an inadequate settlement, you may need to file a lawsuit. A personal injury attorney can help you determine if litigation is the best option and guide you through the legal process.

Filing a lawsuit may be necessary if negotiations fail to yield fair compensation.

Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today

Common Challenges in Uber Accident Cases

Here are some of the challenges you may face if you decide to sue Uber for an accident:

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Uber’s insurers will attempt to minimize payouts, often by disputing liability, downplaying injuries, or offering lowball settlements. Having legal representation ensures you don’t settle for less than you deserve.

Proving Negligence

Establishing negligence is crucial to winning your case. Your attorney will need to demonstrate that the Uber driver or another party acted negligently and that their actions directly caused your injuries.

Statute of Limitations

Every state has a deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits. Missing this deadline could forfeit your right to compensation. Consulting an attorney early ensures you file your claim on time.

Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now

Why Choose Zanes Law?

Here are some of the reasons you should choose Zanes Law if you decide to sue Uber:

Experience Handling Rideshare Accident Cases

We have extensive experience dealing with Uber accident claims and know how to navigate their insurance policies.

Aggressive Negotiation With Insurance Companies

We won’t let insurance adjusters lowball your settlement. We fight to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.

No Fees Unless We Win Your Case

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we recover compensation for you.

Personalized Legal Representation

Every case is unique, and we tailor our legal strategy to maximize your compensation.

Contact Zanes Law Today

If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, don’t navigate this process alone. Contact Zanes Law today for a free consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve and ensure that Uber and their insurers are held accountable.

Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.

Call or text (866) 499-8989 or complete a
Free Case Evaluation form

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