What is Uber?

Uber has grown rapidly since its launch in 2011 and unlike regular taxi companies, the company doesn't describe itself as a 'private hire taxi firm' but as a 'ride-sharing service', connecting those needing a ride to drivers offering one. Uber customers use a smartphone app to submit journey requests, to which drivers equipped with Uber's technology platform can respond.

Uber considers drivers to be independent contractors rather than employees. All drivers must use their own vehicles and take out their own insurance, meaning Uber does not keep a check on the conduct of their drivers or the condition of the vehicles driven under the Uber brand.

How is Uber different from a traditional taxi company?

The differences between Uber and a traditional taxi company extend further than the way in which you book a journey. A private hire taxi company is classified by HMRC as a transport provider, with each of its drivers considered an employee. Uber, on the other hand, promotes itself as a ride-sharing service designed to connect self-employed drivers to passengers; it does not claim to provide the transport itself.

This is a significant distinction, as it raises into question who is responsible – or liable – when a road traffic accident occurs. As part of Uber’s terms and conditions, passengers must agree that Uber holds no liability in the case of an accident. What’s more, Uber themselves state they do not hold any responsibility to ensure that ‘their’ drivers are operating safely or that their cars were in a suitable condition.

However, in February 2021, the Supreme Court ruled that Uber drivers must be considered workers, rather than self-employed. It comes after an employment tribunal was brought against Uber by two of its drivers in October 2016, which was later appealed by the company. However, the ruling was upheld by the Employment Appeal Tribunal in November 2017, and then again by the Court of Appeal in December 2018.

It means that Uber now has an obligation to ensure that both its drivers and the vehicles they use are safe, and that the company itself could be liable in the event of an accident involving one of its drivers.

How do you claim for injuries sustained in an Uber road accident?

Users who download the Uber app must agree to a host of terms and conditions which include a limitation of liability clause, in which Uber state they "will not be liable to you in any way."

People wishing to get in touch with Uber after an accident in one of their taxis can be left very frustrated as the company doesn't provide any customer service phone numbers, only a 'support' email address and a contact form on their website.

However, all drivers on UK roads have a duty of care to other road users. This means that, regardless of who is considered liable – whether that is Uber, the taxi driver, or another driver entirely – if you’ve been injured in a road traffic collision due to someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to claim compensation.

The process of making an Uber passenger accident claim can be complex, so it’s always best to speak to a specialist Uber accident lawyer, who will be able to provide expert advice and support to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. If you’d like to speak to a member of our team, you can contact us online here.

What can I claim for as part of an Uber accident claim?

The type of compensation you can claim as part of an Uber accident claim falls under two categories; general damages, and special damages.

‘General damages’ refers to any physical or mental injuries caused by the accident. The amount that you will receive will be determined by the extent of the injury caused, and by how quickly you are likely to recover, according to a medical expert.

‘Special damages’ refers to any other expenses or losses that you may incur because of your injuries. For example, it can include the loss of any wages if you have been unable to work, any physiotherapy or other treatments you may need to pay for, any adaptations to your home that may be required, or any travel costs (if, for instance, you’ve been unable to drive).

Making an Uber accident claim

Experiencing an accident as a passenger in any vehicle can be harrowing, and you shouldn’t then need to worry or stress about seeking the compensation you deserve to help you get back on your feet. That is why our Uber accident lawyers are on hand to support and advise you on the necessary steps in pursuing your claim.

Our team is consistently ranked highly in reputable independent legal directories, such as Chambers and Partners, and the Legal 500, and are among the best and most experienced injury lawyers in the country. We work closely with medical professionals to ensure each and every one of our clients receives the best possible outcome, both in terms of finances and future care. We also have an in-house rehabilitation coordinator, who is on hand to provide immediate support, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

To start your claim, speak to a member of our team by contacting us online or calling 0330 041 5869.