Rideshare platforms like Uber have revolutionized urban travel, offering millions of passengers a convenient way to get around. But as Uber vehicles become increasingly common on roads across the U.S., accidents involving them have also become more frequent. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading home after a night out, or simply running errands, you might find yourself in an Uber that crashes, and knowing what to do next can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most important actions to take immediately after the accident, explain how Uber’s insurance policies work, and help you understand when and why you should consider contacting a Houston car accident lawyer to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Health
Your first concern after any motor vehicle accident, especially one involving a rideshare service, should always be your own safety and the safety of others around you.
Check for Injuries
If you’re conscious and alert, perform a quick self-assessment. Are you bleeding, dizzy, or experiencing pain? Even if you don’t see physical injuries, internal injuries such as concussions or organ damage may not be immediately apparent.
Help Others If You’re Able
If your condition allows, check on the Uber driver, fellow passengers, and any others involved in the crash. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 and report the emergency. Stay calm, speak clearly, and avoid moving anyone with obvious neck, back, or head injuries unless they’re in immediate danger (such as from fire or traffic).
Get to a Safe Location
If possible, move to the side of the road or a safe area away from oncoming traffic. Turn on your phone flashlight if the crash occurred at night and visibility is low.
Step 2: Call Law Enforcement and Report the Accident
Even if the accident appears minor, it’s critical to contact the police. A formal police report serves as an essential piece of documentation when determining fault and processing insurance claims.
What to Tell the Police
When the officers arrive, provide them with a factual account of the accident. Avoid making assumptions or admitting fault. Stick to what you observed and experienced. Ask for the officer’s name, badge number, and how to obtain a copy of the report. This report will help establish liability and support your claim later.
Step 3: Report the Crash to Uber
Uber requires that all accidents involving their drivers be reported, especially when a passenger is in the vehicle.
How to Report an Accident in the App
- Open the Uber app.
- Go to “Your Trips” and select the ride where the accident occurred.
- Tap “Help” and select “I was involved in an accident.”
- Fill out the details of the incident.
Uber’s support team may follow up with additional questions. Be truthful in your responses but avoid making assumptions about fault or agreeing to anything without legal guidance.
Step 4: Gather Evidence and Record Details
One of the most important things you can do after an Uber accident is collect your own documentation. While Uber, the police, and insurance companies will conduct their investigations, having your own evidence helps protect your claim.
Take Photos and Videos
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- Skid marks, road signs, weather conditions
- Interior of the Uber (if relevant)
- Injuries to yourself or others (with consent)
Record Information
- Uber driver’s name, license plate, and insurance
- Contact details of other drivers and witnesses
- Time, date, and location of the crash
- Screenshot of your Uber trip in the app
Keep everything stored safely and back it up digitally in case your phone is lost or damaged.
Step 5: Understand Uber’s Insurance Coverage
Uber drivers are considered independent contractors, but Uber provides commercial insurance coverage during specific periods of the ride. Your eligibility for compensation depends on whether the Uber driver was “on duty” at the time of the crash.
If the Driver Was Logged Off
Uber is not responsible. You’ll need to file a claim with the driver’s personal auto insurance.
If the Driver Was Logged In and Awaiting a Ride Request
Uber provides limited liability coverage:
- Up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 total per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
If the Driver Had Accepted a Ride or Was Transporting You
Uber’s full commercial policy applies:
- $1,000,000 in liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (subject to a deductible)
This is the most protective coverage and usually applies when you’re injured as a passenger.
Step 6: Seek Immediate Medical Evaluation
Even if you feel fine right after the accident, adrenaline can mask pain. You may suffer from delayed symptoms like whiplash, internal bleeding, or even a concussion.
- Visit an emergency room, urgent care, or your primary doctor within 24 hours.
- Document every visit, prescription, and diagnosis.
- Keep receipts and copies of your medical records.
This medical documentation will be crucial when calculating damages for a potential injury claim.
Step 7: Avoid Quick Settlement Offers
Insurance companies, including those representing Uber, may contact you soon after the crash and offer a fast settlement. While it may seem like a helpful gesture, these offers often undervalue your injuries and losses.
Once you accept a settlement, you waive your right to pursue additional compensation—even if new medical complications arise. Never agree to a settlement without reviewing it with a legal professional.
Step 8: Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer Experienced in Uber Accidents
Uber accidents can quickly become complicated due to overlapping insurance policies, driver status questions, and potential disputes over who is at fault. A knowledgeable attorney can help you:
- Investigate the accident and determine liability
- Deal with Uber and insurance companies
- Calculate and document damages accurately
- File a personal injury claim or lawsuit, if necessary
Even if you’re unsure whether you need legal help, a consultation can clarify your options.
What Damages Can You Recover After an Uber Crash?
As an Uber passenger, you may be eligible to receive compensation for:
- Emergency medical treatment and ongoing care
- Prescription medications and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage (such as personal electronics)
- Emotional trauma and psychological injuries
The amount you recover will depend on the extent of your injuries, the insurance policies in place, and the skill of your legal representation.
Tips for Handling an Uber or Lyft Accident
If you’re involved in a crash while riding in a rideshare vehicle like Uber or Lyft, it’s essential to be proactive and informed. Here are some valuable tips to help protect your rights and secure fair compensation:
- Consult an Attorney Early
Even if you’re not planning to hire a lawyer right away, speaking with one can help you understand the value of your claim and avoid common mistakes that could weaken your case. - Request the Police Report
The official accident report contains crucial information that can support your injury claim. Make sure you know how and when to obtain a copy. - File an Insurance Claim Promptly
Whether it’s with Uber’s insurer or another driver’s policy, don’t delay the claims process. Stay persistent and document every communication. - Avoid Accepting Low Settlements
Some insurers may try to offer quick payouts that don’t reflect the true cost of your injuries. Don’t settle until you’re confident in the value of your claim—or speak to a lawyer for help assessing it. - Be Ready to Advocate for Yourself
Insurance claims often require follow-up and negotiation. Stay organized, keep detailed records, and know that the responsibility to pursue compensation rests on your shoulders.
What Should You Know as a Passenger in an Uber Car Accident?
Passengers in Uber accidents often feel unsure about their rights and next steps. Here are some critical things to understand if you were hurt as a passenger:
- You’re Rarely at Fault
As a passenger, liability usually doesn’t fall on you unless you did something unusually reckless. This gives you a strong position when seeking compensation. - Watch for Soft-Tissue Injuries
Injuries like whiplash or muscle strains are common in rideshare accidents, especially in rear-end collisions. Always get evaluated by a medical professional, even if you feel okay initially. - You Can File a Third-Party Claim
Depending on who caused the crash, you may be eligible to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance or Uber’s commercial policy. Uber typically offers generous coverage for injured passengers.
What Uber Drivers Should Know After an Accident
If you drive for Uber and are involved in an accident while on the job, here’s what you need to understand about your coverage and responsibilities:
- Uber Provides Insurance, but Only When You’re Active
When the app is off, your personal insurance applies. If you’re online and waiting for a ride, Uber offers limited liability coverage. Once you accept a ride or have a passenger, their full $1 million policy kicks in. - You’re Not Eligible for Workers’ Comp
Because Uber drivers are independent contractors, traditional workers’ compensation usually doesn’t apply. You’ll need to rely on a mix of Uber’s policy and your own coverage for any personal injury claims. - Vehicle Damage May Be Covered
Uber offers collision and comprehensive coverage during active trips, but there’s typically a deductible involved. Check your driver agreement or speak with Uber Support for full details.
Contact Dhanani Law If You Were Injured in an Uber Accident
At Dhanani Law, we understand the stress, pain, and uncertainty that follows an Uber accident. You may be facing hospital bills, lost income, and calls from insurance adjusters who want to close your case fast.
Let us take the burden off your shoulders.Our legal team has extensive experience with rideshare accident cases, and we fight to ensure every client receives the full compensation they deserve. Whether your case is straightforward or complex, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Call Dhanani Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation. You focus on recovery, let us handle the rest.
