Do Uber Drivers Have to Report Accidents?

Founded in 2009, Uber is one of California’s most popular transportation network companies (TNC). And while Uber ridesharing service is undoubtedly convenient and wallet-friendly, its drivers are not immune to accidents.

According to the company’s own U.S. safety report, 107 people were killed in 2017 and 2018 in Uber-related accidents, and 30 percent of these fatal collisions involved pedestrians. The majority of these crashes occurred at night in heavily populated urban areas.

The company’s data is derived from accident reports, submitted by Uber drivers, passengers, and bystanders. The ride-hailing company states that incident reporting is crucial to improve safety measures, but do Uber drivers have to report accidents?

Yes, according to company policy, Uber drivers who are involved in crashes are asked to:

First, ensure that all passengers and involved parties are safe
Contact the police and 911
Contact Uber directly and share relevant information about the crash (making sure they have selected the correct trip on their app)

App Emergency Button for reporting accidents
The Uber app has an emergency feature that connects drivers – and riders – to 911 with the press of a button. In most big cities, the app lets drivers and passengers share important details like location with first responders.

There have been numerous incidents, however, where Uber drivers have not reported their accident. This usually happens because drivers know they are at risk of being deactivated and thus unable to earn income with the company. Uber can deactivate a driver for numerous reasons, including poor ratings from customers, reports of passenger assault, illegal activity, vehicle or license violations, and failing to report an accident.

If you are involved in a collision with an Uber driver, a Los Angeles car accident lawyer can explain your rights and outline the best steps to protect your interests. If you suffered any kind of bodily injury – whether you were a passenger, driving another vehicle, or a pedestrian, you need to work with an established law firm that has experience handling ride-share accident claims.

For nearly 30 years, attorneys at Ellis Injury Law have been advocating for personal injury victims throughout Southern California. Our legal team offers sound, client-focused guidance and has a proven track record of impressive settlements and verdicts in all types of vehicle accident claims.

What to do after an accident with an Uber driver

Call 911, then check yourself and others for injuries
Wait for the police to arrive and write a report
Take photographs and video of the accident scene and vehicles involved
Get the name, contact info and driver’s license information of all people involved
Talk to any witnesses of the accident, and get their contact information
If you are a paying passenger, take screenshots of your Uber ride and receipt
Use the Uber app to report the accident
Even if you feel “fine,” get checked out at the emergency room right away. Some car accident injuries have delayed-onset symptoms that can be overlooked
Request copies of your medical expenses and save all receipts related to your accident
Contact a car accident lawyer and do not speak with insurance representatives until you have qualified legal counsel
Do not accept any offers from the driver to pay you in cash in lieu of going through insurance and other proper channels

Keep in mind that Uber has a $1 million insurance policy that covers passengers, drivers and other parties who are injured during ride-hailing trips.

Book your free Uber accident consultation in California

If you or a loved one were involved in an Uber accident, you probably have questions. For advice from a knowledgeable Uber accident attorney in Los Angeles, contact the law offices of Ellis Injury Law. If the driver failed to report the incident, and you suffered injuries, we can help you take immediate steps to protect your rights.

Our staff is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call. If your injuries prevent you from coming to us, we are happy to schedule an appointment in your home or at the hospital.