Crashes involving Uber drivers raise tough questions—especially when you’re injured. If you’re wondering how to sue Uber for a car accident, you’re not alone. Many victims struggle to get clear answers after a rideshare crash. Whether you were riding as a passenger or driving another vehicle, it’s critical to understand your rights and what legal options you actually have.
When Uber’s insurance, driver negligence, and third-party liability all come into play, these cases can get complicated fast. But with the right legal team, you may be able to recover compensation—and hold the responsible party accountable.
One of the first steps in building your case is understanding liability. In any car accident, someone must be at fault—and when Uber is involved, the picture gets a little more complicated. Liability can fall on:
But suing Uber directly is not always straightforward. That’s because Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors, not employees. This classification helps the company avoid direct liability in many cases—but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
Uber provides a tiered insurance system for its drivers. Whether or not Uber’s insurance covers your injuries depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident.
| Driver Status | Insurance Coverage Provided by Uber |
|---|---|
| Driver is offline | Uber provides no coverage—driver’s own policy applies |
| Driver is online, waiting for ride | Up to $50,000 per person for injuries, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage |
| Driver is en route or has passenger | Up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage, plus uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage |
This structure means that if you were a passenger in an Uber at the time of the crash—or hit by an Uber while they were working—you may be entitled to a significant insurance claim.
Here’s the tricky part: Uber typically avoids direct lawsuits by arguing its drivers are not employees. That makes it harder—but not impossible—to sue the company itself.
You might be able to sue Uber directly if:
However, most injury claims are handled through insurance—either the driver’s policy or Uber’s own coverage. A lawsuit becomes more likely if insurance denies your claim or doesn’t fully cover your damages.
If you’re involved in an accident with an Uber, here are key steps you should take to protect your rights:
Rideshare accident claims can be tough to navigate. Between Uber’s limited liability, multiple insurance companies, and tricky legal loopholes, it’s easy to get lost in red tape.
That’s where our best personal injury lawyers in Arizona come in.
We understand how to investigate driver activity through the Uber app, track down insurance policies, and fight back against lowball offers. Whether you were hit by an Uber, injured as a rider, or lost a loved one in a rideshare crash, we’ll help you pursue maximum compensation.
And you don’t pay us unless we win.
The damages you can pursue after an Uber crash depend on the severity of your injuries and how the accident affected your life. Common types of damages include:
Our top attorneys will calculate every penny you’re owed and build a case that proves it.
You may be eligible to file a claim or sue Uber if:
Every case is different. That’s why it’s important to speak with an attorney who knows how to navigate both Arizona personal injury laws and Uber’s complex insurance policies.
Here’s a quick overview of your options depending on your role in the crash:
| Victim Type | Who to File Against | Insurance Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Uber Passenger | Uber’s insurer | $1 million coverage |
| Driver hit by Uber | Uber driver’s insurer or Uber’s coverage | Depends on driver’s status |
| Pedestrian or Cyclist | Uber driver or Uber’s insurer | Depends on app activity |
| Third-Party Victim (e.g. other driver) | Uber driver or their policy | Uber’s backup policy if driver’s insurer denies claim |
We’ve helped countless clients recover damages after rideshare accidents—and we’re ready to help you. At Big Chad Law, our legal team is aggressive, responsive, and experienced in handling complex insurance disputes.
Whether you’re still in the hospital or already dealing with adjusters, it’s not too early (or too late) to call your Arizona law man.
Injured in an Uber Crash? Let Our Best Legal Team Help.
Don’t fight Uber alone. We’ll investigate the crash, handle all insurance negotiations, and fight for the biggest return possible. Get a free consultation today with one of our best personal injury lawyers in Arizona.
Usually you pursue an insurance claim first; suing Uber directly is limited to cases alleging Uber’s own negligence (e.g., hiring/retention, tech issues). Because drivers are generally classified as independent contractors, vicarious liability against Uber is narrow; most recoveries run through the applicable insurance policy.
Key takeaway: Expect an insurance route, not a direct suit—unless you can plead Uber’s independent negligence.
Coverage depends on the driver’s app status at the moment of the crash.
En route or passenger onboard: Uber maintains at least $1,000,000 third-party liability; contingent physical damage to the Uber car requires the driver’s own comp/collision. UM/UIM/PIP/MedPay may apply depending on state.
Key takeaway:Status controls limits—the $1M layer applies only once a trip is accepted/on-trip
Yes—state-dependent UM/UIM may apply in addition to the $1M liability layer when the ride is in progress. Uber confirms UM/UIM varies by state and is maintained where required by law; some states mandate robust UM/UIM for rideshare.
Key takeaway: During a trip, passengers typically have access to $1M third-party liability and, in many states, UM/UIM for at-fault uninsured/underinsured drivers.
Generally 2 years from the date of injury (A.R.S. § 12-542). Limited exceptions can change accrual, but the default personal-injury window is two years.
Key takeaway: File within 2 years in Arizona—or risk losing your claim.
Yes. Arizona uses pure comparative negligence (A.R.S. § 12-2505), so your award is reduced by your fault percentage. Intentional/wanton conduct isn’t protected.
Key takeaway: You can recover even if mostly at fault—your share of fault just reduces the payout.