If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident in the UK—whether as a passenger, pedestrian, or another road user—you may be entitled to claim compensation. With millions of Uber journeys completed in the UK each year, accidents do happen, and understanding your legal rights is essential.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can claim compensation if you were injured in an Uber accident in the UK. You typically have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim. The claim may be made against the Uber driver’s insurance, another driver’s insurance, or in some cases, Uber’s own policy.
How Uber Accident Claims Work in the UK
Unlike traditional taxi services, Uber operates as a ride-hailing platform where drivers use their own vehicles. This creates a unique liability situation when accidents occur. However, following the landmark Supreme Court ruling in Uber BV v Aslam (2021), Uber drivers are now classified as “workers” rather than independent contractors, which has significant implications for accident claims.
All Uber drivers in the UK must have hire and reward insurance—a higher level of cover than standard private motor insurance. This insurance covers passengers for injuries sustained during an Uber journey.
Who Can Claim After an Uber Accident?
Several parties may be entitled to claim compensation:
- Passengers: If you were a passenger in an Uber when an accident occurred, you can claim regardless of who was at fault
- Pedestrians and cyclists: If you were struck by an Uber vehicle
- Other drivers: If an Uber driver caused an accident with your vehicle
- Uber drivers: If another motorist caused the accident
Key UK Cases and Legal Developments
Uber BV v Aslam [2021] UKSC 5
In this Supreme Court case, the court ruled that Uber drivers are workers entitled to minimum wage, holiday pay, and other employment rights. While primarily an employment case, it established that Uber has greater responsibility for its drivers than previously claimed, which strengthens the position of accident victims.
Insurance Requirements
According to UK law firm guidance, Uber drivers must maintain appropriate insurance that covers passengers. If a driver’s insurance is inadequate, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) may step in to cover claims involving uninsured or untraceable drivers.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
In a successful Uber accident claim, you may be able to recover:
- General damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Medical expenses: Private treatment, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation costs
- Loss of earnings: Both past and future income you’ve missed or will miss
- Travel expenses: Costs of attending medical appointments
- Care costs: If you’ve needed help from family or professional carers
- Property damage: Personal belongings damaged in the accident
Steps to Take After an Uber Accident
- Seek medical attention: Your health is the priority, and medical records provide crucial evidence
- Report the accident to Uber: Use the app to report the incident immediately
- Document everything: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and get witness contact details
- Request the driver’s details: Including their insurance information
- Keep all receipts: For any expenses related to the accident
- Consult a solicitor: Many personal injury solicitors offer no-win-no-fee arrangements
Time Limits for Making a Claim
Under the Limitation Act 1980, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to start legal proceedings. For children, the three-year period begins when they turn 18.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim if the Uber driver was at fault?
Yes. As a passenger, you can claim against the driver’s insurance regardless of who caused the accident. If the Uber driver was at fault, their hire and reward insurance should cover your claim.
What if the other driver was uninsured?
The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) operates a scheme to compensate victims of uninsured and untraced drivers. You can still pursue a claim even if the at-fault driver had no insurance.
Do I need a solicitor to make a claim?
While you can make a claim yourself, a personal injury solicitor can help navigate the process, negotiate with insurers, and typically achieve higher settlements. Many work on a no-win-no-fee basis.
Will claiming affect my ability to use Uber?
No. Making a legitimate compensation claim should not affect your Uber account or ability to use the service.
