Rideshare services like Uber have become a convenient and popular form of transportation throughout Las Vegas. From the Strip to the suburbs, thousands of individuals rely on these platforms to get to and from work, events, and casinos every day. However, as the number of rideshare vehicles increases, so too does the number of accidents involving them.

If you were injured while riding in an Uber, driving your own vehicle, or walking near one of these vehicles, you may be entitled to compensation—but obtaining it is rarely straightforward. Uber accident claims are legally complex, involving multiple parties, changing insurance coverage, and companies that work hard to avoid liability. At Drummond Law Firm, we are here to help you navigate this process with clarity, discipline, and a relentless focus on your best interests.

Why Choose Drummond Law Firm for Your Uber Accident Case

Selecting the right attorney after a rideshare crash is one of the most important decisions you can make. Unlike firms that focus on quick settlements, Drummond Law Firm takes a litigation-first approach. Every case is prepared as if it will go to trial, because we know that serious injuries demand serious representation.

Attorney Craig W. Drummond, the firm’s founder, is a former U.S. Army Captain and JAG attorney who was awarded the Bronze Star Medal during his service in Iraq. His military background shapes the culture of our firm—emphasizing discipline, precision, and integrity in every legal matter we take on.

When you work with Drummond Law Firm, you speak directly with an attorney, not just an assistant or case manager. We prioritize clear communication, personalized legal strategies, and timely updates so you are never left wondering about the status of your case.

In fact, many clients choose us because they are seeking a trusted Drummond Law Firm Las Vegas car accident attorney—someone who understands the complexity of Nevada law, especially in the context of rideshare accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered from head trauma, our firm can connect you with an experienced brain injury lawyer who understands the medical and legal nuances involved.

Additionally, we are the only firm in Nevada that offers the Reduced Fee Guarantee®. If your case settles before a lawsuit is filed, our attorney fee will never exceed your net recovery. This guarantee ensures fairness, transparency, and peace of mind at every stage of your case.

Understanding Liability in Uber Accidents

Uber accidents are not handled like typical car crashes. These incidents involve corporate policies, layered insurance coverage, and independent contractors—all of which require a deeper understanding of how liability works under Nevada law.

Before compensation can be pursued, it is critical to determine what role the Uber driver was playing at the time of the crash. Rideshare insurance coverage shifts depending on whether the driver was waiting for a fare, on their way to pick someone up, or transporting a passenger.

Driver Status Matters

Uber classifies its drivers as independent contractors, not employees. As a result, liability coverage varies based on the driver’s app status at the time of the crash:

• App Off: If the Uber app was not active, the driver’s personal auto insurance is the only coverage available.
• App On, No Ride Accepted: Uber provides limited third-party liability coverage in this phase—usually up to $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Ride Accepted or Passenger Onboard: Uber’s $1 million liability policy kicks in during this period, offering substantial coverage for injured passengers, drivers, or third parties.

Understanding these distinctions is critical. Insurance carriers often attempt to minimize claims by disputing the driver’s status or denying the timing of the trip. At Drummond Law Firm, we move quickly to obtain ride data, trip logs, and communication records that establish exactly when and how the accident occurred.

Third-Party Negligence

Not every Uber accident is caused by the rideshare driver. In many cases, another vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist may have contributed to or caused the crash. Determining fault in these multi-party collisions requires a comprehensive investigation and often involves witness interviews, surveillance footage, and crash reconstruction analysis.

Regardless of who was at fault, if you were injured while using Uber—or hit by one—you may have grounds to file a claim. However, it is essential to act quickly, as valuable evidence can disappear and insurance companies may start building their defense almost immediately.

Uber’s Role in the Legal Process

Uber has worked diligently to shield itself from direct liability by classifying drivers as independent contractors. As a result, the company often avoids being named in lawsuits and claims that drivers are solely responsible. However, their insurance coverage still applies under certain conditions, and it can be the difference between partial and full compensation.

Our legal team understands how Uber operates and how to hold all responsible parties accountable. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we ensure our clients are not left to bear the financial burden of someone else’s negligence.

Common Causes of Uber Accidents in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a city built around constant movement, dense traffic, and entertainment. The pace and pressure on Uber drivers in this environment can create dangerous situations for riders, pedestrians, and other motorists. Understanding how and why these crashes happen helps highlight the importance of a thorough legal investigation.

Distracted or Fatigued Uber Drivers

Rideshare drivers often work long hours across multiple platforms to maximize their income. Many are glued to their phones, responding to app alerts, following GPS directions, or communicating with passengers. This multitasking increases the risk of distracted driving, which remains one of the top causes of crashes in Nevada.

Fatigue is also a major factor. Drivers operating late at night or after extended shifts may experience reduced reaction times and impaired judgment. These cases require examining driver history, hours logged, and any fatigue-related red flags.

Tourists Unfamiliar With Local Traffic Patterns

Las Vegas welcomes millions of tourists every year. Many Uber drivers are unfamiliar with the unique challenges of navigating the Strip, airport loops, or side streets near large venues. Poor lane changes, sudden stops, and missed turns can result in unexpected collisions—especially during peak travel hours.

Speeding to Maximize Fares or Meet Demand

Uber’s pricing structure encourages rapid turnover of rides. Some drivers speed, weave through traffic, or cut corners to increase their number of completed trips. This pressure, particularly in congested areas, significantly raises the risk of accidents and endangers passengers and bystanders alike.

Vehicle Maintenance Issues in Privately Owned Cars

Unlike commercial fleets, Uber vehicles are personally owned. That means drivers are responsible for their own vehicle maintenance. Worn tires, faulty brakes, or poor lighting can all contribute to crashes. We investigate whether the vehicle involved in your crash was up to standard—and whether neglect played a role.

Congested Areas Near the Strip, McCarran Airport, or Fremont Street

Certain locations in Las Vegas present consistent risks. Casinos, resorts, and airports are crowded zones with constant rideshare activity. Uber vehicles may double-park, block lanes, or stop abruptly to pick up or drop off passengers. These unpredictable maneuvers are a major source of crashes in high-traffic areas.

What to Do After an Uber Accident

If you were involved in an Uber accident in Las Vegas, the days that follow are often filled with confusion, pain, and uncertainty. While the initial medical concerns may begin to settle, the legal process is just getting started. What you do next matters—and can significantly affect your ability to recover the compensation you deserve.

In these situations, it is important to take thoughtful, strategic action to protect your health, your rights, and your financial future. At Drummond Law Firm, we help individuals navigate these steps every day and ensure they are not taken advantage of by large corporations or insurance carriers.

Seek Medical Attention as Soon as Possible

Even if you did not require emergency care at the scene, it is critical to undergo a full medical evaluation as soon as possible after the crash. Some injuries, including concussions, internal bleeding, and spinal trauma, may not present symptoms right away. A delay in treatment could not only jeopardize your recovery but may also complicate your legal claim. In the event of a back & spinal injury, early intervention can reduce long-term disability and support a stronger case for compensation.

Medical documentation creates a clear record linking your injuries to the accident. This is essential when dealing with insurance adjusters who may attempt to downplay your condition or suggest that the injuries were pre-existing.

Report the Accident to Uber

After you have addressed your immediate health needs, the next step is to report the crash through the Uber app. The company has an internal reporting system for passengers, drivers, and third parties. While this step is necessary, you should limit your communication to basic facts. Do not speculate on fault or offer opinions about what happened.

Uber will typically open an internal investigation and pass your information on to their insurance partners. This often initiates a series of communications designed to protect Uber’s interests—not yours. That is why it is vital not to engage further without legal representation.

Document the Scene and Gather Key Evidence

If possible, collect as much evidence as you can in the hours or days following the accident. Photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries can become powerful evidence. Be sure to capture license plates, driver’s licenses, and Uber ride details such as screenshots of your completed trip or fare receipt.

Additionally, gather the names and contact information of any witnesses. Independent accounts from bystanders can help establish what happened, especially if there are disputes about who was at fault.

Do Not Speak to Insurance Companies Without Legal Counsel

You may receive calls from insurance adjusters representing Uber, the driver, or other parties involved in the accident. These calls often occur early, before you have had a chance to fully understand your injuries or your rights. The adjuster may seem friendly or helpful, but their goal is to limit the payout or deny your claim altogether.

Never provide a recorded statement or sign anything without consulting with an attorney. One careless word or incomplete explanation could later be used to weaken your claim.

At Drummond Law Firm, we take over all communication with insurance companies from the moment you hire us. This ensures you are protected and that your claim is presented clearly, accurately, and from a position of strength.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

Determining liability after an Uber crash can be complicated. There may be multiple parties who share responsibility, depending on how the collision occurred and what factors contributed to it. Our job is to identify every liable party and pursue full compensation from all available sources.

The Uber Driver

If the driver acted negligently—such as by speeding, running a red light, or driving while distracted—they may be held personally liable for the crash. However, whether Uber’s insurance policy applies depends on the driver’s status at the time of the incident. We analyze app usage data, trip records, and other digital logs to determine which insurance coverage is triggered.

Another Driver or Third Party

In some cases, the Uber driver is not at fault. Another motorist may have caused the crash by driving recklessly, failing to yield, or operating under the influence. In these instances, we may file a claim against that driver’s insurance or explore whether additional coverage—such as underinsured motorist protection—can be used.

Uber as a Company

Uber is structured to limit its liability, relying on the classification of its drivers as independent contractors. However, the company’s $1 million insurance policy applies in certain scenarios, particularly when a ride is in progress. We understand when and how to compel Uber’s insurance partners to respond—and when to challenge corporate negligence if systemic failures contributed to the crash.

Vehicle Manufacturers

Some crashes involve mechanical defects such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or faulty airbags. If the vehicle’s equipment was defective and contributed to the accident, the manufacturer or parts supplier may bear legal responsibility. We work with automotive experts to uncover these issues when appropriate.

Government Entities

Poorly designed intersections, malfunctioning traffic lights, or dangerous road conditions may also play a role. In these cases, a claim may be filed against a city, county, or state agency. Claims against government entities require special procedures and have shorter deadlines, which is why early legal action is so important.

Damages You May Be Entitled to Recover

After an Uber accident, victims often face overwhelming financial and emotional burdens. Nevada law allows individuals to seek compensation for both tangible losses and the more personal effects of a serious injury.

Medical Expenses

This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and any future treatment you may require. We work closely with your doctors to document your medical journey and estimate long-term costs.

Lost Wages and Future Earnings

If your injuries prevent you from working or limit your earning potential, you may be entitled to compensation for both past and future income loss. We analyze employment records and consult with vocational experts to calculate the full economic impact of your injuries.

Pain and Suffering

The physical pain, discomfort, and reduced quality of life you endure are real losses. Nevada law permits victims to pursue non-economic damages that reflect the severity and duration of their suffering.

Emotional Trauma and Psychological Effects

Accidents often lead to mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. These effects can interfere with daily life, relationships, and the ability to enjoy activities. We ensure these harms are accounted for in your claim.

Property Damage

If your own vehicle, bicycle, or other personal property was damaged in the crash, you may be reimbursed for repairs or replacement. Even smaller items—such as a phone or work equipment damaged in the collision—can be included in your overall recovery.

Wrongful Death Benefits

In fatal accidents, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one. These claims often involve calculating not just immediate costs but the long-term value of companionship, guidance, and financial contribution the deceased would have provided. These types of tragic outcomes should be handled by a seasoned wrongful death attorney who is well-versed in both Nevada statutes and compassionate advocacy. If you’re seeking a proven advocate, a Drummond Law Firm Las Vegas personal injury lawyer can guide you through the legal and emotional complexities of wrongful death claims.

Challenges in Rideshare Accident Claims

Uber claims present several unique hurdles. Insurance policies may overlap or exclude coverage entirely depending on the circumstances. Proving which policy applies and how much coverage is available often requires technical evidence and legal strategy.

Another challenge is Uber’s corporate structure. Because the company does not classify drivers as employees, they often deny direct responsibility, complicating the liability chain. Independent contractor laws and app-based policies create ambiguity that insurance companies exploit.

Crash reports may also be incomplete or inaccurate. Officers responding to the scene may not understand rideshare dynamics or may miss key facts. At Drummond Law Firm, we conduct our own investigation to ensure the record reflects the full truth.

How Drummond Law Firm Investigates and Builds Strong Claims

Our process begins immediately. Once you hire us, we begin preserving key evidence before it disappears.

We secure ride logs, trip data, and app records to establish the driver’s status at the time of the crash. We request the driver’s training and background records to determine whether Uber failed to screen for safety. Our team obtains surveillance and dashcam footage, interviews witnesses, and consults with accident reconstruction experts when needed.

We also work closely with medical providers and financial analysts to document your injuries, costs, and long-term prognosis. Every case is built with trial in mind—even if it settles out of court. This preparation is often the difference between a low offer and a full recovery.

You do not need to face Uber’s insurance teams alone. At Drummond Law Firm, we offer free consultations, and we do not charge any legal fees unless we win your case. Our Reduced Fee Guarantee ensures that in any pre-litigation settlement, you will never receive less than your attorney.