Who Is Liable in an Uber Accident in Chicago?
Our Chicago Uber attorneys can help you determine fault and fight for the compensation you deserve
Rideshare services such as Uber have changed how people get around Chicago, but they’ve made injury claims complicated when rideshare accidents occur. Unlike a regular car crash, an Uber accident often involves multiple parties, layered insurance coverage, and complicated questions of responsibility.
The Chicago Uber accident lawyers at Keating Law Offices are here to help you sort it out. We’re committed to protecting your rights and getting the full compensation you deserve. Learn more about how we can help by contacting us online and scheduling a free consultation.
“Best ever! Mike Keating and his team made the Personal Injury settlement process very easy. I never had to worry about anything and felt taken care of every step of the way.” – B.M., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Who could be at fault in an Uber accident?
Determining liability in an Uber accident isn’t always straightforward. Several parties may share blame, depending on how the crash happened.
The Uber driver
If the Uber driver caused the crash by speeding, driving distracted, or breaking traffic laws, they may be held legally responsible. In Illinois, the insurance coverage available depends on whether the driver was using the Uber app at the time of the crash.
If the driver was logged into the app but had not yet accepted a ride request, Uber’s limited liability coverage applies. If the driver was on the way to pick up a passenger or had a rider in the vehicle, Uber’s $1 million commercial insurance policy may cover injuries and damages.
Another driver
In some cases, the Uber driver isn’t the one at fault. If another driver caused the crash, that individual may be fully or partially responsible under Illinois’s comparative negligence system. In these situations, injured parties can file a claim against the at-fault driver’s auto insurance.
If that driver is uninsured or doesn’t carry enough coverage, Uber’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may step in, provided the Uber driver was actively transporting a passenger or en route to a pickup at the time of the crash.
Additionally, if a commercial vehicle hit the Uber, the company that employs the driver or the trucking company may be held accountable.
Vehicle manufacturers or maintenance companies
If a mechanical failure or defective vehicle part contributed to the crash, you may be able to pursue a product liability claim against a manufacturer or maintenance company. This often occurs due to faulty brakes, defective steering components, or tire blowouts.
Can you sue Uber for an accident?
Yes, Uber could be liable if the company’s negligence contributed to the crash, such as:
- Failing to remove a dangerous driver from the platform after repeated complaints
- Failing to conduct a background check or driver history check
When can passengers pursue Uber accident claims?
If you’re a passenger injured in an Uber crash in Illinois, you’re almost never at fault. That gives you the right to seek compensation for your injuries. You may be covered by:
- Uber’s commercial insurance policy, which includes liability coverage
- The at-fault driver’s insurance, if someone other than the Uber driver contributed to the crash
Rights of pedestrians and third parties
Pedestrians, bicyclists, and occupants of other vehicles hit by an Uber can also pursue compensation. Like passengers, they may be covered by a mix of insurance policies depending on whether the Uber driver was:
- Off duty (only personal coverage applies)
- Logged into the app but without a ride request (limited Uber coverage)
- En route to pick up or transporting a passenger (full Uber coverage)
A thorough investigation is often needed to determine the driver’s status at the time of the crash, as well as who is responsible for paying. The Chicago Uber accident lawyers at Keating Law Offices can gather key evidence, such as:
- Uber app data and trip logs
- Uber’s electronic driver activity records
- The Uber accident report and police statements
- Witness statements
- Dashcam or surveillance video
- Vehicle inspection and app interface screenshots
How to report an Uber accident
To protect your rights, make sure to report the accident promptly and through the right channels:
- In the Uber app: Go to “Your Trips,” select the ride, and tap “Help.” Choose the appropriate issue and follow the prompts to submit an Uber accident report.
- With the police: In Chicago, crashes involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,500 must be reported to law enforcement.
- With a lawyer: Even if you think an Uber accident was minor, speak to an experienced Chicago lawyer as soon as possible and avoid conversations with insurance companies representing Uber or another at-fault party.
Get trusted legal guidance from a skilled Chicago Uber accident lawyer
If you were hurt in an Uber accident, get an experienced legal advocate on your side to help you level the playing field. At Keating Law Offices, we understand how confusing and stressful an Uber crash can be, especially when you’re trying to figure out who’s responsible for your injuries. Our experienced attorneys can launch a full investigation into your case, determine who was at fault, and advise you on whether filing an Uber accident lawsuit is the right step.
You have nothing to lose by reaching out. Our consultations are always free, and if we take your case, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us anything unless we win for you. Contact us today to speak directly with a Chicago attorney who has the knowledge and resources to handle your case from start to finish.
