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Using Uber to get from point A to point B is really convenient — with the tap of our phones, a driver is assigned to us. The service is pretty easy to use and generally, all goes well… until the accident. Being in an Uber accident can be more traumatizing than another accident because you have to deal with Uber and their attorneys who are only out to benefit Uber. When in an Uber accident, you may wonder: Will Uber pay my medical bills after an accident as a passenger? The answer is not completely clear. It’s something like: yes unless… 

Knowing the factors that determine when Uber pays your medical bills is an important starting point to making sure you recover monetarily for the full value of your injuries.

Rideshare Accidents and Medical Compensation – What Uber Passengers Must Know

If you were injured while riding as a passenger in an Uber, understanding Uber’s insurance coverage for passengers is critical. Uber typically offers $1 million in liability coverage, but filing a claim is complex. You must know how to file a claim against Uber, understand Uber’s accident insurance policy details, and track your rideshare accident medical expenses to ensure you receive full Uber passenger injury compensation.

Key Details:

  •  Does Uber cover medical bills after accident?
    Yes, but only under specific conditions. You must file the claim properly.

  •  Uber accident claim process involves:

    1. Reporting to Uber through the app

    2. Documenting all injuries and expenses

    3. Filing a claim through the driver’s insurance or Uber’s provider

 

What are the factors that determine who pays an Uber passenger’s medical bills after an accident?

When property damage or injuries are sustained after an auto accident, it is usually the at-fault party and his or her insurance company that reimburses the victim’s medical bills. If the at-fault party is the Uber driver, then you may wonder if Uber will pay. Whether Uber specifically pays for your medical bills after an accident in which you were a passenger depends on two typical variables: 

  • Fault: Who was at fault for the accident? It may not always be the Uber driver at fault; it could be another driver. Sometimes, both the Uber driver and another motorist share responsibility for the accident. When it isn’t the fault of the Uber driver, Uber will not pay unless the other driver does not carry auto insurance. Uber has uninsured motorist coverage. This means that if the Uber driver was not at fault and the at-fault motorist has no auto insurance, your medical bills will still be covered by Uber’s auto insurance policy.
  • Amount: How much are your medical bills? Uber covers passengers up to $1 million for injuries if the accident occurs between the time the Uber driver accepts your request for a ride until the moment you are dropped off at your destination. 

$1 million seems like a lot, thus, in less serious auto accidents, the amount should easily cover your injuries. In more serious accidents, however, $1 million starts to seem smaller and smaller. The problem here becomes: what if compensatory damages exceed $1 million? Uber claims passengers cannot claim more because Uber drivers are effectively independent contractors. As such, Uber is not responsible for their actions, even when the Uber driver was driving while intoxicated, and thus, caused the accident that led to injuries exceeding $1 million. If, however, Uber drivers were considered employees, then you would be able to recover more from Uber. One day soon enough, the courts may determine the status of Uber drivers as either contractors or employees. Until then, you (or your attorney) will have to provide a clear argument if you require more than $1 million in compensation.

You must also keep in mind two things: 

  1. Medical bills are not the only thing for which compensation should cover — you can also seek compensatory damages for things like lost wages and pain and suffering; and
  2. Uber attorneys work for Uber, not you — this means you can expect some pushback from them depending on what you ask the company to recompense; they are worried about profits and their own pockets and not your injuries or suffering. 

If you are a passenger using Uber’s service and are in an auto accident from which injuries are sustained, regardless of fault on the part of the Uber driver or another motorist, Uber will pay your medical bills up to $1 million. To get it to pay more than that, however, may be a fight, but a fight worth taking. Full and fair compensation is your right as a victim.

Key Reasons Why You Should Understand Uber’s Insurance Policy:

  • Uber liability for passenger injuries varies depending on whether the driver was:

    • Offline

    • Logged in but not yet accepted a ride

    • On an active trip (most coverage)

  • Filing a claim without legal help may result in lower or delayed compensation.

  • Uber’s insurance coverage for passengers typically includes:

    • Third-party liability coverage

    • Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury

    • Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage

Uber’s Insurance Policy Chart:

Category

Details

Uber Liability Coverage

Up to $1 million when driver is on-trip

Medical Bills Covered?

Yes, under Uber’s third-party liability insurance

Process Timeline

Claims may take weeks to months

Proof Needed

Police report, medical records, ride logs, insurance info

Who should you contact to ensure your rights as an Uber passenger are upheld?

When you are injured in California as well as elsewhere due to an accident caused by another person or entity, then you are entitled to compensation. As mentioned, compensatory damages include things like:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages (past and future)
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of consortium
  • Loss of enjoyment
  • Mental anguish, and
  • more.

In California, Washington State, and throughout the United States, victims of auto accidents have rights. Namely, you have the right to file a claim or lawsuit for property damage and bodily injuries. You also have a right to retain counsel to represent you before big companies like Uber and insurers.  To make sure your voice is heard and your rights are upheld, you should seek experienced legal counsel. At Ledger Law Firm, our personal injury lawyers are here to help you get the compensation you deserve in your Uber accident case. Contact us to appoint a time for a free initial consultation. Bring with you any documentation or medical bills you already have, and, of course, bring your questions. We will answer them honestly and concisely so you can make an informed decision about your next step to full and fair compensation.

Uber Passenger Accident Claim – Step-by-Step Guide

Step

Action

Notes

1

Report the accident through the Uber app

Use the “Help” section for incident reporting

2

Seek immediate medical attention

Medical records will be vital evidence

3

Document all accident-related information

Photos, police report, ride receipt, etc.

4

Contact Uber and the driver’s insurer

Uber may direct the claim to the driver’s insurer first

5

Retain a rideshare accident attorney

Legal counsel can help pursue full compensation

6

File the claim with supporting evidence

Include all injury-related documentation

FAQ: Will Uber Pay My Medical Bills After an Accident as a Passenger?

Will Uber cover my medical expenses after an accident?

Yes, Uber carries third-party liability coverage and contingent medical insurance that may apply if you’re injured as a passenger. Coverage depends on who was at fault and the circumstances of the accident.

How much does Uber’s insurance cover for injured passengers?

Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage when the ride is in progress. This can cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, especially if the Uber driver was at fault or underinsured.

Can I sue Uber or the driver for my injuries?

In states like California, Texas, and Washington, you can pursue a personal injury claim if negligence is proven. This can be against the Uber driver, another driver involved, or the rideshare company under specific circumstances.

What if another driver was at fault during my Uber ride?

If a third-party driver caused the accident, their insurance is the primary source for medical compensation. Uber’s uninsured/underinsured motorist policy may also apply.

How long do I have to file a claim?

 In most states:

  • Texas: 2 years

  • California: 2 years

  • Washington: 3 years

These statutes of limitations apply to personal injury claims. Acting quickly improves your chances of recovering full compensation.

Does Uber cover my medical bills if I’m injured as a passenger?

Yes. If the Uber driver is at fault—or another motorist causes the crash while you’re riding in an active trip—Uber’s $1 million liability insurance may cover your injuries. This includes hospital bills, rehab, and lost wages.

What should I do immediately after an Uber accident in Texas?

  • Call 911 and seek medical attention

  • Document the scene

  • Notify Uber through the app

  • Contact an Uber passenger accident lawyer near me at The Ledger Law Firm for legal advice

Who pays my bills if another car caused the crash?

Uber’s insurance still applies, but third-party liability claims may be involved. Legal help ensures all parties are held accountable.

Should I contact a lawyer before speaking to Uber or insurance?

Absolutely. Consulting with an experienced rideshare accident attorney—such as those at The Ledger Law Firm—can help protect your rights and maximize your medical compensation.