What to Do After an Uber Accident: A Guide for Passengers (With or without a License)
Accidents can happen at any time, and if you're a passenger in an Uber, knowing what to do in the aftermath can make a significant difference in your recovery. Whether you're just going across town or on a long trip, accidents involving ride-sharing vehicles can be overwhelming. The good news is that you have protections and rights as a passenger—especially if you don’t drive yourself. Here’s what you need to know about what to do after an Uber accident and the compensation and benefits you're entitled to, even if you don’t have a driver’s license.
1. Ensure Safety First
Your safety is the top priority after an accident. Check for any injuries, no matter how minor they might seem. If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 immediately. Afterward, if possible, move to a safe location away from traffic, particularly if you’re in a busy area. Always stay calm and stay with the scene to ensure help arrives.
2. Contact Emergency Services
If an accident occurs, don’t hesitate to call emergency services. While Uber drivers are trained to handle accidents, emergency responders can assess injuries more effectively and provide medical care on-site or transport you to the hospital if needed. Reporting the accident also ensures that a proper record is created, which can be crucial for any claims or legal proceedings.
3. Document the Scene
Even if you’re not driving, you should gather as much information as possible about the accident. Take pictures of the accident scene, any vehicle damage, and visible injuries. If other passengers or drivers are involved, be sure to collect their contact and insurance details. It’s also helpful to get contact information from any witnesses. These details can be incredibly valuable when filing claims or seeking compensation.
4. Report the Incident to Uber
As soon as you’re able, report the accident to Uber through their app. Here's how:
Open the Uber app and navigate to Help.
Select Trip Issues and Adjustments and choose I was in a crash.
Provide the relevant details about the accident.
Uber's insurance coverage typically comes into play when the driver is on their way to pick you up or during the trip. Reporting the incident allows Uber to track your case and help facilitate any necessary insurance claims.
5. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s important to see a doctor. Adrenaline can mask pain in the immediate aftermath of an accident, and injuries can surface later. A medical professional will be able to properly assess your health and document any injuries, which is important for any future insurance claims.
6. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
After an Uber accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and navigate the process of filing claims with Uber or other insurance companies. They can help ensure that you're compensated fairly, especially if there’s confusion about who’s at fault or how to proceed.
7. Your Coverage and Compensation Rights—Even Without a Driver’s License
One of the most important things to understand as a passenger is that you’re entitled to coverage and benefits, even if you don’t have a driver’s license. Uber provides commercial liability insurance, which includes coverage for passengers in the event of an accident. This insurance provides medical and compensation benefits for injuries sustained during a ride, regardless of whether you are a licensed driver.
If the driver was online (i.e., the app was on and they were driving you), Uber’s commercial insurance will cover you. This means that whether you’re in the car as a rider or not driving, you are protected under Uber’s coverage, which can offer up to $5 million in liability for passengers.
8. What If the Driver Was Offline?
If the accident occurred when the driver was not logged into the Uber app (i.e., the driver was not en route to pick someone up), Uber's commercial insurance would not apply. In this case, the driver’s personal insurance may come into play. However, this can be more complicated to navigate, especially if the driver doesn’t have adequate insurance coverage.
If the driver is not covered or if there’s an issue with their insurance, you may be able to file a claim through your own auto insurance or health insurance provider, if applicable. A personal injury lawyer can help guide you through these steps to ensure you’re protected.
9. Know Your Rights
Under Ontario law (and similar laws in many other areas), passengers in accidents are entitled to accident benefits, which include medical care and compensation for pain and suffering. This can be particularly important for those who do not have a driver’s license, as you don’t need to be behind the wheel to seek damages for your injuries.
Final Thoughts
Being involved in an Uber accident can be a stressful experience, but understanding your rights and the steps to take afterward can make the recovery process smoother. Even as a passenger without a driver’s license, you are entitled to medical benefits and compensation through Uber’s insurance coverage. By documenting the accident, reporting it to Uber, and seeking professional legal and medical assistance, you can protect yourself and ensure that you receive the support you need in the aftermath of a crash.
Remember, the most important thing is your health and safety. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the proper professionals for assistance. Whether you're navigating insurance claims or seeking medical treatment, you have rights that can help you through this challenging experience.
