Uber Accidents in New York: What You Need to Know About Your Rights & Insurance Coverage

Rideshare services like Uber have become a daily part of life across Buffalo and Western New York. Whether you’re heading downtown, catching a ride from the airport, or avoiding parking hassles, Uber offers convenience—but when accidents happen, things can get complicated fast. 

At Collins & Collins, we’ve seen firsthand how confusing Uber accident claims can be. Between multiple insurance policies and New York laws, it’s critical to understand your rights. 

Why Uber Accidents Are Different 

Unlike a typical car accident, Uber cases often involve multiple parties and layers of insurance coverage, including: 

• The Uber driver  

• Other drivers involved in the crash  

• Uber’s corporate insurance policy  

• Your own insurance (in some cases)  

Who pays—and how much—depends on what the Uber driver was doing at the time of the accident. 

Uber Insurance Coverage in New York 

New York has specific laws governing rideshare companies like Uber (also known as Transportation Network Companies, or TNCs). These laws require Uber to carry different levels of insurance depending on the driver’s status in the app. 

Driver Logged In, Waiting for a Ride 

If the driver is online but hasn’t accepted a trip yet: 

• $75,000 for injury per person  

• $150,000 total per accident  

• $25,000 for property damage  

Driver En Route or Passenger in Vehicle 

Once a ride is accepted or a passenger is in the car: 

• $1.25 million in liability coverage  

• Coverage for passengers, pedestrians, and others involved  

This is where most serious injury claims fall—and where significant compensation may be available. 

What If You’re Injured in an Uber Accident? 

Whether you are: 

• A passenger in the Uber  

• Another driver  

• A pedestrian or cyclist  

You may be entitled to compensation for: 

• Medical expenses  

• Lost wages  

• Pain and suffering  

New York’s No-Fault insurance still applies, meaning your initial medical bills and lost wages are typically covered regardless of fault. However, if your injuries meet the serious injury threshold, you can pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. 

Determining Fault Isn’t Always Simple 

Uber accidents often involve disputes over: 

• Who caused the crash  

• Whether the driver was actively working for Uber  

• Which insurance policy applies  

Insurance companies may try to: 

• Shift blame between drivers  

• Downplay injuries  

• Delay or deny claims  

That’s why having experienced legal representation is key. 

What to Do After an Uber Accident 

If you’re involved in an Uber accident: 

1. Call 911 and get a police report  

2. Take photos of the vehicles and scenes  

3. Screenshot your ride details in the Uber app  

4. Seek medical attention immediately  

5. Avoid speaking with insurance companies alone  

6. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney  

How Collins & Collins Can Help 

Uber accident cases require a deep understanding of New York rideshare laws, insurance layers, and liability issues. 

At Collins & Collins, we’ve been helping injured individuals across Buffalo and Western New York for over 70 years. We know how to: 

• Identify all available insurance coverage  

• Determine which policy applies  

• Handle complex claims involving multiple parties  

• Fight insurance companies that try to minimize your case  

Our goal is simple—make sure you get the compensation you deserve. 

Injured in an Uber Accident? 

Don’t let confusion over insurance and liability cost you what you’re entitled to. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber accident, call Collins & Collins at 716-885-9700 for a free consultation. 

No fee unless we win. 

Rides may be easy—but accident claims aren’t. Let us handle it for you.