Filing an insurance claim after an Uber accident requires navigating specific procedures and understanding which coverage applies. The process differs from standard auto insurance claims and requires documentation of the driver's app status.

Immediate Steps After the Accident

Before filing any claims, take these essential steps:

Call 911: Ensure police respond and document the accident officially.

Seek medical attention: Document injuries immediately, even if they seem minor.

Document the scene: Photo damage, road conditions, and the Uber vehicle's identifying information.

Get driver information: Driver name, license, and insurance details.

Screenshot your ride: If you were a passenger, preserve your ride receipt and trip details from the app.

Reporting Through the Uber App

Uber requires accidents to be reported through their platform:

Open the app and navigate to your trip history.

Select the relevant trip and choose "I was in an accident."

Follow the prompts to provide accident details and upload photos.

Request claim information: Uber will provide insurance carrier contact information.

Uber's Insurance Carrier

Uber uses different insurance carriers in different states. After reporting, you'll receive contact information for the applicable insurer. This is typically a commercial insurance company, not Uber directly.

File a claim with the carrier using the claim number and contact information provided.

Provide documentation: Medical records, repair estimates, and other evidence of damages.

Be cautious with statements: Recorded statements can be used to minimize your claim.

Determining Which Coverage Applies

The insurance carrier will investigate to determine:

Driver's app status: Whether Period 1, 2, or 3 coverage applies.

Fault determination: Who was responsible for the accident.

Applicable coverage: Which policy provisions apply to your specific claim.

Common Claim Disputes

Be prepared for potential disputes about:

Coverage period: The insurer may argue for a lower-coverage period.

Injury causation: Claims that your injuries aren't related to the accident.

Damage valuation: Lowball offers for vehicle damage or medical expenses.

Comparative fault: Arguments that you share responsibility for the accident.

Protecting Your Claim

Document everything: Keep records of all medical treatment, expenses, and correspondence.

Don't accept quick offers: Early settlement offers are typically inadequate.

Consult an attorney: Before accepting any settlement, understand the full value of your claim.

Meet deadlines: Insurance policies have time limits for reporting and filing claims.