What to Do If the Uber Driver Flees After a Rideshare Accident in Las Vegas
Rideshare services like Uber have made getting around Las Vegas more convenient than ever. But when an Uber driver is involved in an accident—and especially if they flee the scene—it can turn your quick trip into a legal nightmare. Hit-and-run accidents involving rideshare vehicles raise complicated questions about liability, insurance, and your rights as a passenger or another injured party. If you’ve been in an accident where your Uber driver took off after the crash, here’s what you need to know and the steps you should take immediately from Mainor Ellis.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Call 911
Your safety comes first. If you’re injured, call 911 or ask someone else to do so. Even if your injuries appear minor, getting a medical evaluation creates an official record that can support your injury claim later. Tell the dispatcher that the driver fled the scene—this makes it a hit-and-run, which is a crime in Nevada.
Step 2: Gather Information and Evidence
If you’re physically able, gather as much information as you can before the moment slips away:
- The make, model, and license plate of the Uber vehicle
- Any dashcam footage or surveillance in the area
- Screenshots of your Uber ride details (driver’s name, vehicle info, trip timestamp)
- Contact information of any witnesses
- Photos of the scene, damages, and injuries
- Even though the driver fled, the Uber app may still contain vital details for identifying them.
Step 3: Report the Incident to Uber
Open the Uber app and report the crash. Uber has a built-in mechanism for accident claims. Be specific and let them know the driver fled the scene. This could lead to them removing the driver from the platform and will start their internal insurance investigation process.
Step 4: Understand Your Insurance Options
If the driver was logged into the Uber app and carrying a passenger (you), Uber’s $1 million liability insurance policy should apply. This coverage is meant to protect riders and third parties in the event of a crash caused by the Uber driver. However, since the driver fled, it may be unclear who was at fault. You may still be able to access compensation through Uber’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which is designed for hit-and-run situations where the at-fault driver cannot be located.
Step 5: Speak With a Personal Injury Attorney
Rideshare accident claims—especially involving a hit-and-run—can get messy fast. Our experienced Las Vegas personal injury lawyers can help you navigate the insurance claims process, gather the necessary evidence, and determine who may be held responsible. At Mainor Ellis, we understand how devastating it is to be hurt by a driver who refuses to take accountability. Whether it was an Uber, Lyft, or another rideshare provider, we’re here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a rideshare hit-and-run accident in Las Vegas, don’t face it alone. Contact Mainor Ellis today for a free consultation and let our experienced legal team protect your rights.
Source:
leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-484e.html
