Yes, Uber drivers can be held liable for accidents under certain circumstances—particularly when their negligence causes harm to another person. However, determining liability in rideshare accidents is more complex than in typical car crash cases. This is because multiple parties may share responsibility, and coverage often depends on what the Uber driver was doing at the time of the accident.
In California, liability may fall on the Uber driver, Uber’s commercial insurance policy, or another involved driver. The outcome depends on factors like who caused the crash, whether the driver was actively transporting a passenger, and how the accident occurred.
Understanding these distinctions is essential when filing a claim for damages—and it’s why many injured victims choose to work with a Los Angeles Uber accident lawyer who understands the complexities of rideshare liability.
When Uber Drivers Are Personally Liable
Uber drivers, like all motorists, have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely. If an Uber driver is found to be distracted, speeding, running a red light, or otherwise driving negligently, they can be held personally liable for any injuries or damages they cause. This is especially true if the driver was not logged into the Uber app at the time of the accident.
In this situation, the driver is treated like any other private motorist, and their personal auto insurance policy is the first line of coverage. However, personal insurance policies often exclude coverage when the driver is using their vehicle for commercial purposes, which can complicate the claims process.
A Los Angeles rideshare accident lawyer can help injured victims understand when a driver’s personal policy applies—and when the rideshare company may be on the hook.
When Uber’s Insurance Coverage Applies
Uber provides a tiered insurance policy that kicks in when the driver is using the app. The coverage changes based on the driver’s status at the time of the crash:
- App is off: The driver’s personal insurance applies. Uber provides no coverage.
- App is on, waiting for a ride request: Uber provides limited liability coverage, typically $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
- En route to pick up or transporting a passenger: Uber provides $1 million in liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist protection.
These distinctions are critical when determining whether the Uber driver is liable or whether Uber’s insurance will take responsibility. Victims often don’t know how to establish the driver’s status or access the relevant insurance information—which is why working with a Los Angeles car accident lawyer can be so important in building a strong claim and pursuing the right insurer.
How We Help Victims of Uber Accidents
At Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys, we represent individuals who have been injured in accidents involving Uber or other rideshare services. Whether you were a passenger in the Uber, a pedestrian, or a driver in another vehicle, we help you identify who is at fault and pursue the maximum compensation available.
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling rideshare claims, including those where multiple parties share fault or where insurance companies try to delay or deny payouts. We dig into the details—driver status, app data, insurance layers, and more—to make sure your claim is based on the full picture, not just what Uber tells you.
Common Scenarios We Handle
Uber accident liability depends heavily on context. We routinely handle cases involving:
- Uber drivers hitting another vehicle while actively transporting a passenger
- Passengers injured while riding in an Uber due to driver error or a third party
- Pedestrians struck by Uber drivers in crosswalks or intersections
- Riders injured in multi-car collisions, where fault is unclear
- Uninsured drivers causing accidents with Uber passengers onboard
These cases often involve more than one insurer, conflicting driver statements, and limited cooperation from Uber. We take the pressure off our clients by managing the entire process—starting with a thorough investigation and continuing through negotiation or litigation, if needed.
Understanding Comparative Fault in California
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means multiple parties can share fault for the same accident. For example, an Uber driver may be 70% responsible for a crash, while another motorist is 30% at fault. In this case, any compensation awarded to injured parties is reduced by their share of fault.
This system also applies when Uber passengers are injured due to the actions of other drivers. If you’re unsure who caused the accident—or if fault is being unfairly assigned to you—it’s crucial to work with an attorney who understands how liability is determined and how to protect your rights under California law.
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Why You Should Contact an Uber Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident, there’s a lot more at stake than just filing an insurance claim. These cases often involve:
- Multiple insurance carriers with overlapping policies
- Unclear or disputed liability between drivers and Uber’s corporate coverage
- Delays in medical payments or settlement offers
- Lowball offers that don’t reflect long-term costs like rehabilitation or missed work
At Omega Law Group, we don’t let our clients get pushed around by insurance companies or corporate legal teams. We’re known for our personal attention and direct communication—our attorneys even give clients their cell phone numbers, so no one is left waiting for answers.
We also leverage advanced technology and years of experience to build strong cases quickly and accurately. Whether your accident happened in Riverside, Los Angeles, or anywhere in California, we’re ready to fight for your recovery.
Let Our Family Take Care of Your Family
Uber accidents can leave victims with serious injuries, unexpected bills, and confusing legal questions. If you’re wondering whether the Uber driver is liable or how to access compensation, don’t go it alone. Let us help you get clarity, answers, and the support you need to move forward.
At Omega Law Group, we combine modern resources with compassionate legal care. We’ve helped countless clients across California recover what they’re owed—and we’re ready to do the same for you.
Let our family take care of your family. Contact us today to speak with a rideshare accident lawyer who will prioritize your case and fight for your future.
