Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft have become a part of everyday life thanks to their convenience, affordability, and on-demand availability at the tap of a button. But what happens if you’re injured in an Uber accident? Can you sue Uber for your injuries?
It’s a common question — and the short answer might surprise you.
The Short Answer: Probably Not
When you sign up for Uber or Lyft, you agree to their terms of service — usually without realizing what’s buried in the fine print. One of those terms is something called an arbitration clause.
This clause means that if you’re injured in an Uber accident, you give up your right to file a lawsuit in court. Instead, your case must be resolved through arbitration — a private process that takes the place of a trial.
What Is Arbitration?
Arbitration is a legal process where a neutral third party (called an arbitrator) hears both sides and makes a decision. It might sound fair on paper, but there are major differences between arbitration and going to court:
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No jury: You lose your constitutional right to have your case heard by a jury of your peers.
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Limited transparency: Arbitration happens behind closed doors — not in a public courtroom.
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Restricted appeals: It’s much harder to appeal or challenge an arbitrator’s decision.
While companies like Uber and Lyft are legally allowed to include arbitration clauses, they often tilt the process in their favor — making it harder for Uber accident victims to recover fair compensation.
Can You Opt Out of Uber’s Arbitration Clause?
Technically, yes — Uber’s agreement allows users to opt out of arbitration, but only within a short time frame after creating your account. Most people don’t even know this option exists, and by the time an Uber accident happens, it’s too late.
What Should You Do If You’re Injured in an Uber Accident?
Even though you may not be able to sue Uber directly, you still have options. Depending on how the crash happened, you may be able to file a claim against:
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The at-fault driver (whether that’s your Uber driver or another driver)
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The insurance coverage Uber provides for passengers (which can be significant)
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Other responsible parties, if applicable
An experienced Uber accident attorney can help you understand what compensation you’re entitled to and guide you through the process — even if arbitration applies.
The Bottom Line
If you’re injured in an Uber accident, you likely can’t sue Uber directly because of the arbitration clause you agreed to when signing up. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
At Sadaka Law, we’ve spent over 20 years helping Uber accident victims and other injured passengers understand their rights and fight for the compensation they deserve — whether that’s through litigation or arbitration.
If you’ve been injured in an Uber accident, don’t navigate it alone. Contact Sadaka Law today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you protect your rights.
