If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident in San Francisco, figuring out who’s legally responsible can be overwhelming. Liability can shift depending on the circumstances, and rideshare cases often involve multiple parties and insurance layers. Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, knowing your rights is the first step toward securing compensation.
At Infinity Law Group, we specialize in rideshare accident claims and have helped countless victims across the Bay Area recover damages. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Uber accident liability in San Francisco.
Understanding Liability in Uber Accidents
Liability determines who pays for damages after an accident. In Uber-related crashes, it’s not always clear-cut. Several factors influence who’s responsible:
- Who caused the accident: Was it the Uber driver, another motorist, or a third party?
- Driver’s status in the Uber app: Uber’s insurance coverage changes depending on whether the driver was waiting for a ride, en route, or off-duty.
- Applicable insurance policies: Uber’s commercial insurance may kick in, but personal auto insurance could also be involved.
Understanding these nuances is critical to building a strong claim and avoiding delays or denials from insurance companies.
When Is the Uber Driver Liable?
Uber drivers are considered independent contractors, but they still have a duty to operate their vehicles safely. If the driver’s negligence caused the crash, they may be held personally liable.
Common examples of driver negligence include:
- Distracted driving: Using a phone, adjusting GPS, or interacting with the app while driving.
- Speeding or reckless driving: Ignoring speed limits or weaving through traffic.
- Driving under the influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
- Failure to obey traffic laws: Running red lights, failing to yield, or making illegal turns.
In these cases, the driver’s personal auto insurance may be the first line of coverage—unless Uber’s policy applies based on their app status.
Uber Driver Status & Insurance Coverage
Uber’s insurance coverage is tiered, meaning it depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident. Here's how it breaks down:
1. Driver Logged Off the App
- Uber provides no coverage.
- The driver’s personal auto insurance is solely responsible.
- Victims must file claims directly with the driver’s insurer.
2. Driver Logged In, Waiting for a Ride Request
- Uber offers contingent liability coverage:
- Up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury.
- Up to $100,000 per accident total.
- Up to $25,000 for property damage.
- This coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance doesn’t cover the full amount.
3. Driver En Route to Pick Up or Transporting a Passenger
- Uber provides $1 million in third-party liability coverage.
- Includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
- Covers passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers affected by the crash.
For full details, visit Uber’s insurance policy page.
What If Another Driver Is at Fault?
Not all Uber accidents are caused by the Uber driver. If another motorist is responsible, their insurance company may be liable for your damages.
Examples include:
- A driver rear-ends the Uber vehicle.
- A car runs a red light and hits the Uber.
- A distracted driver swerves into the Uber’s lane.
California follows comparative negligence laws, meaning fault can be shared. If both drivers contributed to the accident, liability may be split—affecting how much compensation each party owes.
Is Uber Itself Ever Liable?
Uber typically avoids direct liability by classifying drivers as independent contractors, not employees. However, Uber may be held accountable in rare cases, such as:
- App malfunction: If a glitch in Uber’s navigation or dispatch system contributed to the crash.
- Negligent hiring: If Uber failed to screen a driver with a history of reckless behavior.
- Failure to enforce safety standards: If Uber ignored complaints or failed to deactivate a dangerous driver.
These cases require strong legal evidence and are best handled by an experienced rideshare attorney.
Why You Need a San Francisco Uber Accident Attorney
Uber accident claims are legally complex and often involve:
- Multiple insurance companies: Each with its own adjusters and legal teams.
- Corporate defense strategies: Uber has deep resources to fight liability.
- Confusing coverage rules: Determining which policy applies can be tricky.
- Pressure to settle quickly: Victims may be offered lowball settlements.
An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly.
- Identify all liable parties.
- Negotiate with insurers.
- File lawsuits if necessary.
At Infinity Law Group, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on recovery.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Victims of Uber accidents may be entitled to significant compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: ER visits, surgeries, physical therapy, prescriptions.
- Lost wages: Income lost due to missed work or reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life.
- Property damage: Repairs or replacement of your vehicle or belongings.
- Future care costs: Ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation.
We fight for maximum compensation and won’t settle for less than you deserve.
Serving San Francisco & the Bay Area
Infinity Law Group proudly serves:
- San Francisco
- Oakland
- San Jose
- Berkeley
- Fremont
- Marin County
Whether you were a passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver, we’re ready to help you hold the right parties accountable.
Contact Infinity Law Group Today
If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Contact Infinity Law Group to speak with a trusted San Francisco Uber accident attorney and get the justice you deserve.
Schedule your free consultation 📞 Call us at (925) 732-1188
