Missouri Rideshare Lawyer

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have made transportation more convenient, but accidents involving rideshare vehicles present unique legal challenges. Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crashes often involve multiple insurance policies, corporate liability issues, and complex legal procedures that can make it difficult for victims to recover compensation.

If you were injured in a rideshare accident as a passenger, driver, or third party, you may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, determining who is responsible for paying damages can be challenging.

Have you or a loved one been involved in an Uber or Lyft accident in Missouri? If so, legal assistance from a Missouri rideshare lawyer can help you navigate the claims process and maximize your compensation. 

Call TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers at (314) 789-1888 today for a free case evaluation. 

Get Your Free Case Review Today

If You Want Help... Call Us

It costs absolutely nothing to see if you have a case

Play Video

If You Want Help... Call Us

It costs absolutely nothing to see if you have a case

As Seen On

TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers James Helm Image
Play Video about TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers James Helm Image
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers ABC Logo
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers James Helm Image
Play Video about TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers James Helm Image
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers CBS Logo
Play Video
TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers Billboards Near You Logo

Your Guide to Missouri Rideshare Accidents

James Helm, Personal Injury Lawyer

How TopDog Law Connects Rideshare Accident Victims With Missouri Lawyers

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed the way people travel, but accidents involving these vehicles present unique legal challenges. Whether you were an injured passenger, rideshare driver, or another motorist involved in a collision, determining who is responsible for covering your damages can be complicated.

Rideshare companies classify drivers as independent contractors, which means they often try to distance themselves from liability in an accident. At the same time, multiple insurance policies may be involved, and victims frequently face delays, denials, or low settlement offers from insurance providers.

TopDog Law connects Missouri rideshare accident victims with attorneys who understand the complexities of Uber and Lyft claims. A lawyer from TopDog Law’s network can help navigate the legal process, determine liability, and negotiate for the maximum compensation available.

Why Work With a Lawyer Through TopDog Law for a Rideshare Accident?

Rideshare accident cases are often more complex than standard car crashes due to the involvement of corporate insurance policies, third-party liability, and changing legal standards. Without legal representation, accident victims may struggle to understand which insurance policy applies to their case and risk accepting a settlement that does not fully cover their medical bills and lost wages.

A Missouri rideshare lawyer from TopDog Law’s network can assist by:

  • Determining whether Uber or Lyft’s insurance coverage applies in the accident
  • Gathering rideshare app data, driver records, and accident reports to prove liability
  • Negotiating with multiple insurance companies to secure fair compensation
  • Ensuring that victims receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
  • Taking legal action if insurance providers attempt to deny or undervalue the claim

Rideshare accident victims deserve to know their rights and receive the compensation they are legally entitled to.

Clear rideshare pickup signage with directional arrow indicating designated passenger drop-off/pick-up area for drivers. Easy and efficient transportation.

Compensation Available for Rideshare Accident Victims in Missouri

Accidents involving Uber and Lyft can result in severe injuries and financial hardships. A successful claim can help victims recover compensation for:

  • Medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgeries, and rehabilitation
  • Future medical costs for ongoing treatment and long-term care
  • Lost wages for time away from work due to injuries
  • Loss of earning capacity if the victim is unable to return to work
  • Pain and suffering for physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life
  • Property damage for vehicle repairs or replacement
  • Wrongful death damages for families who lost a loved one in a rideshare crash

Many insurance providers try to minimize payouts, but having an attorney ensures that victims do not accept less than they deserve. TopDog Law connects victims to Missouri rideshare lawyers who know how to fight for maximum compensation.

Who Is Liable in a Missouri Rideshare Accident?

Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on who was at fault and whether the rideshare driver was actively using the app at the time of the crash.

Potentially liable parties include:

  • The rideshare driver if they were negligent, distracted, or reckless
  • Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy if the driver was actively engaged in a ride
  • Another driver if they caused the crash
  • A vehicle manufacturer if a defect contributed to the accident
  • A government entity if poor road conditions played a role

Because rideshare companies classify drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, they often try to deny liability for accidents. However, their corporate insurance policies may still provide coverage in certain situations.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance Coverage

Uber and Lyft have three different levels of insurance coverage depending on the rideshare driver’s status at the time of the accident.

If the driver was not logged into the rideshare app:

  • The driver’s personal auto insurance applies, and Uber or Lyft provides no coverage.

If the driver was logged in but had not yet accepted a ride request:

  • Uber and Lyft provide contingent liability coverage:
    • $50,000 per person for bodily injury
    • $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
    • $25,000 for property damage

If the driver had accepted a ride or was transporting a passenger:

  • Uber and Lyft provide $1 million in liability coverage
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply if another driver caused the crash but lacked sufficient insurance

Navigating these insurance policies can be confusing, which is why legal representation is often necessary to ensure rideshare accident victims receive full compensation.

Personal Injury Lawyer
A drunk man sits in his car after the police test him with a breathalyzer.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

Like any other car crash, rideshare accidents can happen due to a variety of factors, many of which involve driver negligence or recklessness.

Common causes of Uber and Lyft accidents include:

  • Distracted driving – Rideshare drivers often check their phones for ride requests, maps, or messages.
  • Fatigue – Many rideshare drivers work long hours or drive late at night to maximize earnings.
  • Speeding – Rushing to complete more trips can lead to reckless driving.
  • Failure to obey traffic laws – Ignoring stop signs, red lights, or failing to yield.
  • Drunk or drugged driving – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Inexperienced drivers – Some rideshare drivers lack proper training or accident-avoidance skills.

Proving the cause of the accident is crucial for determining liability and obtaining compensation.

Injuries Resulting from Rideshare Accidents

Rideshare accidents can result in serious injuries for passengers, drivers, and pedestrians. These injuries often lead to high medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation needs.

Common injuries in Uber and Lyft accidents include:

  • Head trauma and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Whiplash and severe neck or back injuries
  • Broken bones and fractures
  • Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
  • Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
  • Soft tissue damage such as torn ligaments and muscle injuries
  • Psychological trauma such as PTSD or anxiety after the crash

Because some injuries, especially head and spine injuries, may not appear immediately, victims should seek medical attention right away after a rideshare accident.

rideshare accident lawyer

What to Do After a Rideshare Accident in Missouri

  1. rideshare driver, other involved drivers, and any witnesses.
  2. Report the crash to Uber or Lyft – Both companies have in-app reporting systems for accidents.
  3. Do not accept a quick settlement – Insurance companies may offer low settlements to resolve the case quickly.
  4. Consult a Missouri rideshare accident lawyer – A lawyer can help determine liability and negotiate for full compensation.

Taking these steps ensures that critical evidence is preserved and protects your right to recover damages.

Challenges in Rideshare Accident Claims

Unlike standard car accident cases, rideshare accidents involve multiple parties, insurance policies, and corporate liability issues, making them more complex.

Common challenges in Uber and Lyft accident claims include:

  • Determining which insurance policy applies – Personal auto insurance, rideshare company coverage, or a third-party driver’s insurance may all come into play.
  • Disputes over driver status – If the rideshare driver was not actively engaged in a ride, Uber or Lyft may deny responsibility.
  • Insurance claim delays and denials – Rideshare companies and insurers may attempt to shift blame or undervalue a claim.
  • Comparative negligence claims – Insurance companies may argue that the victim was partially at fault to reduce payout amounts.
  • Complex corporate policies – Rideshare companies have legal teams dedicated to minimizing financial liability, making it difficult for victims to negotiate fair settlements.

A Missouri rideshare accident lawyer can navigate these challenges and ensure that victims receive the full compensation they deserve.

What If the Rideshare Driver Was Uninsured or Underinsured?

While Uber and Lyft provide insurance coverage, there are situations where victims may not be fully covered by the company’s policy.

Scenarios where additional legal action may be necessary include:

  • The rideshare driver’s personal insurance policy was inactive or denied coverage.
  • The at-fault driver had no insurance or was underinsured.
  • The rideshare company disputes liability based on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.

In these cases, victims may still be able to recover compensation through:

  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage from their own insurance policy
  • A lawsuit against the driver or rideshare company if negligence is proven
  • Other third-party claims if road hazards, mechanical failures, or other contributing factors played a role

A lawyer can identify all possible sources of compensation to ensure victims are not left covering expenses out of pocket.

How Long Do You Have to File a Rideshare Accident Claim in Missouri?

Missouri law sets strict time limits for filing personal injury claims, including rideshare accident cases. The statute of limitations is:

  • Five years from the date of the accident for personal injury claims
  • Three years for wrongful death claims if the accident resulted in a fatality
  • Property damage claims must also be filed within five years

Failing to file a claim before the deadline can result in losing the right to seek compensation. Because rideshare accidents involve complex insurance negotiations, it is best to start the legal process as soon as possible.

What Happens If a Rideshare Passenger Is Injured?

Rideshare passengers are in a unique position because they are not responsible for the accident but still suffer injuries.

Injured passengers can seek compensation from:

  • Uber or Lyft’s $1 million insurance policy if the driver was actively transporting a passenger
  • The at-fault driver’s insurance if another motorist caused the accident
  • Personal uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, if the responsible party lacks sufficient insurance

Since multiple insurance policies may be involved, a Missouri rideshare lawyer can help determine which insurer is responsible for covering damages and negotiate a fair settlement.

Two individuals riding an electric scooter crossing the street beside a stationary yellow Uber car in a busy urban setting.

Can You Sue Uber or Lyft Directly?

Because Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors rather than employees, suing the rideshare companies directly can be difficult. However, in some cases, they may still be held liable.

Situations where Uber or Lyft could be sued include:

  • Negligent hiring practices – If the company allowed a driver with a history of DUI offenses or reckless driving to operate
  • Failure to enforce safety policies – If the rideshare company ignored complaints or reports of unsafe drivers
  • App-related distractions – If the rideshare app encouraged unsafe driving behavior, such as excessive use while operating a vehicle

If a rideshare company played a direct role in causing an accident, legal action may be possible against both the driver and the corporation.

What If a Rideshare Accident Results in a Wrongful Death?

If a loved one was fatally injured in a rideshare accident, surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek justice and financial compensation.

Compensation in a wrongful death claim may include:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical costs incurred before the victim’s passing
  • Loss of financial support and future earnings
  • Loss of companionship and emotional distress
  • Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence

Wrongful death claims can be complex, especially when multiple insurance policies and corporate liability issues are involved. An experienced Missouri rideshare lawyer can help families navigate the legal process while holding responsible parties accountable for their negligence.

Get a Case Review Through TopDog Law Today

James Helm with Phone and Cash Bag
Translate »