What to Do If Your Uber Gets in an Accident

Los Angeles’ congested roads, from the 405 Freeway to Sunset Boulevard, are hotspots for Uber accidents. According to the LAPD, rideshares are involved in 12% of all collisions in the city. Whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, knowing what to do after an Uber crash is critical—and hiring a Uber accident lawyer Los Angeles ensures you aren’t lowballed by insurers.

At Bojat Law Group, our LA-based attorneys specialize in rideshare injury claims. Below, we outline the exact steps to take after an Uber accident, how California’s insurance laws impact your case, and why legal help is your best chance at a fair payout.

Step 1: Ensure Safety & Call 911

Immediate Actions:

1. Check for Injuries: Administer first aid if needed.
2. Move to Safety: If possible, exit the Uber and stand on the sidewalk (e.g., near busy areas like LAX or Downtown LA).
3. Call 911: California law requires reporting accidents involving injuries or significant property damage.

Why This Matters:
A police report is key evidence. Officers will document road conditions (e.g., potholes on Wilshire Blvd) and assign fault—details Uber’s insurer, James River Insurance, will scrutinize.

Step 2: Document the Scene

Gather Critical Evidence:

• Photos/Video: Capture vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signals, and injuries.
• Driver Info: Get the Uber driver’s name, license plate, and insurance details.
• Witness Contacts: Ask bystanders for statements (e.g., “The Uber ran a red light at Hollywood and Highland”).

Pro Tip:
Request the Uber driver’s insurance and their personal auto policy. In California, Uber drivers must carry both.

Step 3: Seek Medical Attention

Where to Go in LA:

• Emergency Care: Cedars-Sinai or UCLA Medical Center for head injuries or fractures.
• Urgent Care: Clinics like Carbon Health in Santa Monica for whiplash or sprains.

Why Timing Matters:
Delayed treatment lets Uber’s insurer argue your injuries aren’t serious. For example, a concussion diagnosed days later may be dismissed as “unrelated.”

Step 4: Report the Accident to Uber

How to File:

1. Open the Uber app and go to “Help” > “Trip Issues and Refunds” > “I was in an accident.”
2. Submit photos, the police report number, and a description of the crash.

Warning:
Avoid giving recorded statements to Uber’s claims adjusters without a Los Angeles rideshare accident attorney. They’ll use your words to minimize payouts.

Step 5: Understand Uber’s Insurance Policies

Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage, but only if:

• The driver was en route to pick up a passenger (Period 2) or had a passenger (Period 3).
• The accident occurred in Los Angeles County.

Common Loopholes:

• If the driver was offline (Period 1), Uber denies coverage, forcing you to sue the driver personally.
• Insurers may blame you for “contributory negligence” (e.g., not wearing a seatbelt in West Hollywood).

Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company

Even if Uber’s insurer is liable, you should:

1. Inform your auto insurer (e.g., State Farm LA or Allstate Pasadena).
2. Avoid admitting fault or speculating about injuries.

Why?
Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage can pay for immediate medical bills while your case is pending.

Step 7: Contact a Los Angeles Uber Accident Lawyer

Uber’s legal team and insurers work hard to limit payouts. A Uber accident lawyer Los Angeles helps by:

1. Investigating the Crash: Pulling Uber’s GPS data, driver logs, and dashcam footage.
2. Fighting for Maximum Compensation: Including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
3. Suing All Liable Parties: From the Uber driver to third-party motorists on the 10 Freeway.

Case Example:
We secured a $1.2 million settlement for a passenger injured in a multi-vehicle Uber crash on the 110 Freeway.

Why Uber Accident Claims Are Complex in Los Angeles

• Multiple Insurance Policies: Uber’s $1 million coverage, the driver’s personal policy, and third-party insurers.
• Comparative Negligence: California reduces payouts if you’re even 1% at fault.
• Statute of Limitations: You have 2 years to file a lawsuit—evidence disappears quickly in LA.

FAQ: Uber Accidents in Los Angeles

Q: Can I sue Uber directly?
A: Yes, if the driver was logged into the app. We’ve sued Uber for negligent hiring (e.g., drivers with prior DUIs).

Q: What if I was a pedestrian hit by an Uber?
A: You can still file a claim under Uber’s liability policy.

Injured in an Uber Crash? Call Bojat Law Group Today

Uber accidents in Los Angeles require immediate action and expert legal help. The Uber accident lawyer Los Angeles team at Bojat Law Group will:

• Handle all communications with Uber and insurers.
• Use accident reconstruction experts to prove fault.
• Fight for every dollar you deserve.

Don’t let Uber’s billion-dollar legal team bully you. Call (818) 877-4878 now for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.