Does Uber Cover Accidents for Drivers?

By Eugene Bruno on December 20, 2024

Rideshare drivers and passengers face unique challenges in the aftermath of a crash. You might not be aware of what happens if you get in an accident while driving for Uber, so it’s important to know that you are covered for medical expenses, vehicle damage, and liability.

Additional questions you might have: Does Uber cover accidents for drivers? While the company provides coverage in certain situations, there may be gaps depending on the circumstances.

Understanding Uber’s Insurance Policy

What Insurance Does Uber Provide for Drivers?

Uber insurance is available for drivers, but whether it applies in a particular situation depends on your status when an accident occurs. Uber coverage for drivers, passengers, and other third parties varies significantly at different stages, depending on whether you are on your own time with the app turned off, online waiting for a ride request, or on the way to pick up or transport a passenger.

When Does Uber’s Insurance Apply?

The amount of insurance the company provides depends on the situation, as Uber reports. The Uber coverage stages are as follows:

• When the app is off, your personal auto insurance policy applies.
• When you are online and available for a trip but have not yet accepted a ride, Uber offers limited liability coverage.
• If you are en route to pick up a passenger or on a trip, Uber’s insurance policy provides up to $1 million in coverage for property damage and injuries to passengers and third parties if you are at fault for the accident. Additionally, it covers costs to repair your vehicle, up to actual cash value, contingent on your personal insurance policy, including comprehensive and collision coverage.

Types of Coverage Provided by Uber for Accidents

Liability Coverage

Is Uber liable for accidents? The company provides liability coverage for Uber drivers when they are at fault for a crash, with the amount of coverage depending on the driver’s status. If you are logged into the app but have not accepted a ride, the company provides up to $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in bodily injury coverage, plus $25,000 for property damage. Once a ride has been accepted, coverage increases significantly to up to $1 million in third-party liability.

Comprehensive and Collision Coverage

Does Uber insurance cover the driver in an accident? The company offers contingent comprehensive and collision coverage for drivers actively engaged in trips, provided they carry this coverage on their personal auto insurance policies. Uber car damage insurance can help cover the costs of vehicle repairs, regardless of fault. However, drivers have a $2,500 deductible, and this coverage only applies during active trips.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Depending on the laws of the state, the company may provide uninsured motorist coverage for drivers and riders. Uber may offer this insurance to help protect drivers and passengers involved in accidents caused by uninsured hit-and-run drivers or drivers in violation of state law.

What Is Not Covered by Uber’s Insurance?

Personal Injuries Not Related to Uber Rides

Personal injury coverage is only provided by Uber when the driver is actively logged into the app or on the way to pick up or transport a passenger. Personal injuries sustained on the driver’s own time when the app is off are not covered. Passengers involved in incidents outside an Uber ride, such as walking to the vehicle or waiting for a pickup, may not be eligible for Uber coverage.

Accidents While Driving Off-Duty

Uber does not provide off-duty coverage for drivers. If you are driving your personal vehicle and involved in an accident while not logged into the Uber app, your auto insurance applies. No coverage is available under the company’s insurance policy under these circumstances.

Underlying Health Insurance and Medical Costs

There is no health insurance for Uber drivers in a company policy. Uber insurance does not cover medical expenses directly. Drivers will need personal health insurance to cover those costs.

What Should You Do If You Are Involved in an Accident as an Uber Driver?

Steps to Take After an Accident

Drivers should take the following steps after an Uber accident:

• Prioritize safety: Check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible.
• Report the accident: Call 911 to notify the police of the accident.
• Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
• Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene and any visible injuries. Exchange information with all parties involved. Get contact information for eyewitnesses.
• Notify Uber: Report the accident using the Uber app.
• Contact an experienced San Diego rideshare accident attorney for legal guidance in pursuing compensation under Uber’s insurance policies.

Filing a Claim with Uber

In the Uber accident claim process, drivers must report incidents through the app. This includes providing details, such as date, time, location, and a description of the accident, and uploading supporting evidence, such as police reports, photos, and insurance information. Uber’s insurance provider typically reviews the claim and responds within a few days or weeks. To avoid delays, drivers should provide all requested documentation promptly.

What to Do if Uber Denies Your Claim

If you receive an Uber claim denial, review it carefully to ensure all necessary documentation was submitted correctly. You may appeal the decision with additional evidence or take legal action. To explore your legal options, consult a lawyer who specializes in car accidents.

How Uber’s Coverage Compares to Other Rideshare Companies

Uber vs. Lyft: Which Offers Better Insurance?

While Uber and Lyft offer similar insurance coverage, there are certain differences in their policies. Both companies provide liability insurance when drivers are actively using the app, with variances in coverage depending on whether the driver is waiting for a ride request or on the way to pick up or actively transporting passengers. Lyft coverage may vary slightly from Uber coverage in the active phase. Rideshare insurance comparison may be critical.

What Other Rideshare Drivers Need to Know About Insurance

Managing insurance coverage can be complex if you are driving for multiple rideshare platforms. While insurance is provided for Uber and Lyft drivers during active rides, coverage can vary, depending on whether you are waiting for a ride request or traveling to or transporting a passenger. Coverage in the active phase can vary slightly from one company to another. Make sure you understand the coverage offered by each platform during each phase. Carry your insurance to cover any gaps and for protection in an accident.

Legal Considerations for Uber Drivers After an Accident

When to Consult a Lawyer for an Uber Accident

It may be in your best interests to seek legal advice after an Uber accident. Drivers should consider hiring an attorney, particularly in cases involving severe injuries, coverage disputes, or Uber negligence. An experienced personal injury lawyer can protect your rights and aggressively pursue the most favorable outcome for you.

Understanding Your Rights as an Uber Driver

An Uber driver has certain legal rights after an accident. You have the right to file an insurance claim if you were logged into the app when the crash occurred. When a claim is denied or Uber’s insurance is insufficient, you have a right to seek compensation through your personal auto insurance policy or file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.

Uber Insurance Coverage for Drivers

While Uber provides insurance for drivers logged into the app, coverage is less substantial if you are not en route to a ride or transporting a passenger. So if you’ve been involved in a car accident as an Uber driver, your best course of action is to consult with an experienced car accident lawyer.

At Eugene Bruno & Associates, we have 40+ years of combined experience and a 99.7% success rate. Call us at 1-888-BRUNO-88 (1-888-278-6688) to schedule a free consultation with our California car accident attorneys.