Involved in an Accident While Delivering Food? DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Your Rights in 2025
Food delivery has emerged as one of the most sought-after services in the gig economy, attracting a growing number of workers.
How Food Delivery Apps Transformed the Industry During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic marked an explosive growth period for food delivery apps, reshaping the dining experience across the United States. By 2021, DoorDash alone contributed a staggering $68.9 billion to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), highlighting the app's pivotal role in the gig economy.
Food Delivery Made Easier Than Ever
Platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats have revolutionized how we enjoy meals from popular restaurants. Whether you’re craving a Big Mac from Mcdonalds or the famous Potato Balls from Porto’s, these apps make it effortless to have your favorite dishes delivered straight to your door, day or night.
With most delivery drivers relying on their personal cars to transport orders, the surge in food delivery services has added more vehicles to already congested roads. In Los Angeles, for instance, studies reveal that the city averages over 21,000 car accidents annually, and gig economy roles like food delivery are contributing to the increased traffic.
What Happens If a Food Delivery Driver Gets Into an Accident?
Accidents are an unfortunate reality, and each food delivery service offers its own set of coverage terms to protect drivers. Here's a breakdown:
DoorDash Occupational Accident Insurance
This policy focuses on driver injuries, offering:
Disability Payments: 50% of the average weekly wage, up to $500 per week (less other income).
Medical Expenses: Up to $1,000,000 with no deductible or co-pay.
It’s important to note that this coverage does not include vehicle damage.
Uber Eats Auto and Injury Protection Insurance
Uber Eats provides different coverage tiers depending on the driver’s status:
- Offline or Driver App Off: Personal insurance policies apply.
- Available or Waiting for a Delivery:
- $50,000 for bodily injury per person.
- $100,000 for bodily injury per accident.
- $25,000 for property damage per accident.
- On a Delivery Trip:
- $1,000,000 in third-party liability coverage.
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage up to the car's actual cash value (with a $2,500 deductible).
Additionally, in California, Uber Eats provides Injury Protection Insurance to support drivers with:
Survivor Benefits: Up to $320,000 for dependents.
Disability Payments: Up to $1,324 per week.
Medical Bills: Up to $1,000,000 with no deductibles or copays.
If you're delivering food through services like DoorDash or Uber Eats, consider updating your personal auto insurance policy to include coverage for food delivery accidents. Many insurance providers now offer specialized packages tailored for gig workers.
Steps to Take After a Food Delivery Accident
Your safety is the top priority. If you're involved in a car accident while delivering food, ensure you’re okay and immediately call 911 for emergencies. Once safe, follow these steps:
- Document the Scene:
- Use your phone to capture photos and videos of your vehicle’s damage and any affected areas around the accident, including other vehicles and property.
- Take detailed notes about the incident.
- Collect Information:
- Gather the other driver’s details, including their name, phone number, driver’s license, registration, and license plate number.
- Notify the Delivery App:
- Inform the platform (e.g., DoorDash or Uber Eats) about the accident to initiate their claims process.
- Consult an Attorney:
- Reach out to a Los Angeles food delivery accident attorney to understand your rights and ensure proper compensation.
Why Legal Help Is Crucial After a Food Delivery Accident
California offers unique benefits to drivers, but securing full compensation for injuries and damages can be challenging. Insurance companies are often focused on minimizing payouts, leaving you with less than what you deserve.
At Tulekyan Law, we specialize in advocating for food delivery drivers injured in accidents. Our experienced LA car accident attorneys will:
- Thoroughly review applicable laws and regulations for delivery apps.
- Ensure you’re not being shortchanged by insurance companies or delivery platforms.
- Fight to recover the maximum compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Serving Southern California's Food Delivery Drivers
Whether you’re delivering in Burbank, Van Nuys, Glendale, or other LA areas, we’re here to help you regain control of your life.
Contact Tulekyan Law today for a free consultation and take the first step toward justice. You shouldn’t have to settle for less than what you rightfully deserve.
Our approach involves personalized attention to your case, thorough investigation, and aggressive representation in negotiations and court. We strive to secure you maximum compensation while providing support and guidance throughout the process.
