Is there ever a circumstance where Uber is liable for the accident?

Yes. While lawsuits filed against Uber for the distraction that the app they require their drivers to use while on the road have been largely unsuccessful, there are a few circumstances in which the company may face liability for injuries sustained in an accident caused by an Uber driver. Those circumstances include Uber failing to properly vet its drivers through extensive driving record and background checks, if a plaintiff can prove that the driver had a history of criminally reckless behavior exhibited in the accident.