In a bustling city like St. Louis, Missouri, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become integral to daily life. These services offer convenience, but they also bring new challenges and risks.
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving an Uber, our experienced St. Louis Uber accident attorneys can help. Our legal team specializes in handling rideshare claims in Missouri and is here to provide the support and representation you need.
Imagine you are on your way to pickup a family member from the St. Louis International Airport and on the way there, driving on I-70 you rear-ended by an Uber who didn’t realize traffic ahead of them had slowed considerably.
Or perhaps you are visiting St. Louis and you decide to take an Uber to visit the St. Louis Contemporary Art Museum, and on the way there the driver accidentally runs a red light on Washington Avenue and you get t-boned by another driver.
While these are hypothetical situations, you’re not alone if you’ve been injured in an Uber accident in St. Louis. According to research from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have contributed to a 3% annual increase in auto fatalities nationwide since their introduction.
In fact, the study found that the number of roadway deaths rose from 32,885 in 2010 to over 37,400 by 2016. This uptick in fatalities includes an estimated 987 additional deaths each year linked to the growing use of ridesharing.
To further illustrate the rise in rideshare accidents, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that there was a 30% increase in accidents involving rideshare between 2018 and 2022.
Our experienced Uber accident attorneys in St. Louis, Missouri, understand the unique challenges of Uber accidents and are dedicated to helping victims secure the compensation they deserve. Contact us today to learn more about your rights following an accident or injury.
What is Causing So Many Uber Accidents in St. Louis, Missouri?
Crashes involving Uber and Lyft in St. Louis, Missouri, can happen for many reasons. Understanding the common causes can help you assess your situation and determine fault.
Impaired or Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of accidents. It is a severe concern in Uber-related incidents.
Fatigued Driving: Fatigued driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving. Uber drivers who work long hours without adequate rest are more prone to accidents due to decreased alertness and slower reaction times.
Tailgating or Following Too Closely: Tailgating, or following too closely, is a common cause of rear-end collisions. In high-traffic areas or during rush hours, tailgating can result in severe accidents and injuries.
Failure to Yield: Failure to yield the right of way can lead to T-bone accidents and other serious collisions. It’s essential for all drivers, including Uber drivers, to understand and obey traffic signals and rules.
Abrupt or Sudden Lane Changes: Improper lane changes, such as merging without signaling or checking blind spots, can cause accidents. Uber drivers must be especially cautious when navigating busy streets or highways.
Driving With Excessive Speed: Excessive speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Uber drivers who speed are more likely to cause severe collisions.
Distracted Driving: Distracted driving, including texting, using a GPS, or engaging with passengers, is a significant risk factor for accidents. Drivers who are not focused on the road are more likely to cause accidents.
Disregard for Basic Traffic Laws: Reckless driving and doing things like ignoring stop signs, red lights, and other traffic signals can cause catastrophic auto accidents.
To learn more about the factors contributing to Uber and Lyft car accidents, contact our experienced St. Louis Uber accident lawyers. Our law firm offers free case evaluations and is always available to answer your questions.
Is the Driver Personally Liable, or Is Uber Liable After a Crash in St. Louis, Missouri?
Determining liability in an Uber accident can be complicated. Both the Uber driver and Uber itself can be held liable depending on the circumstances of the accident.
- If the Driver Is at Fault: If the Uber driver is responsible for the accident due to negligence or recklessness, they may be personally liable. Uber’s insurance policy may also come into play, providing coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the accident.
- If Uber Is at Fault: In some cases, Uber may be held liable for accidents involving its drivers. This is particularly true if the driver’s actions were related to their duties as an Uber driver, such as navigating the app or handling passenger interactions.
Who Pays For Damages in An Accident Involving Uber in St. Louis, Missouri?
Determining who is responsible and who covers damages in an Uber accident depends on the driver’s status at the time of the accident. Uber’s insurance typically applies if the driver is using the app and transporting a passenger or en route to pick up a passenger.
However, if the driver is offline or the app is off, the driver’s insurance will be the primary coverage.
Uber accidents can be more complex than traditional car accidents due to the involvement of multiple parties, including the rideshare company, the driver, and potentially other motorists.
In Missouri, Uber is required to provide substantial insurance coverage, but understanding the nuances of this coverage and determining liability can be challenging without experienced legal assistance.
Uber Insurance Coverage in St. Louis, Missouri
In Missouri, Uber drivers are covered by different insurance policies depending on their status at the time of the accident. Uber provides primary liability coverage when drivers are en route to pick up passengers or have passengers in their vehicles. However, the coverage can vary significantly based on the driver’s status and the specifics of the accident.
For instance:
- Offline or the App is Off: If the Uber driver was not using the app at the time of the accident, their auto insurance may cover the damages. Uber’s insurance coverage typically does not apply in this situation.
- If the Driver Is on the App Looking for a Rider: When the Uber driver is logged into the app but has not yet accepted a ride, Uber’s insurance provides limited coverage. This coverage is referred to as contingent liability coverage, and goes up to $50,000 per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Compensation might be available through this policy, but it may not cover all damages, depending on the severity of the accident.
- If the Driver Is on the Way to Pick up a Rider or Has a Rider Onboard:
If the Uber driver is on the way to pick up a rider or has a passenger in the car, Uber’s $1 million liability coverage applies. This coverage includes both bodily injury and property damage, as well as potential additional coverage for underinsured or uninsured motorists.
What Happens When You Are the Uber Rider?
If you are a passenger in an Uber and are injured in an accident, Uber’s insurance should cover your medical expenses and other damages. It is essential to document your injuries and report the accident to Uber as soon as possible to facilitate the claims process.
To learn more about liability and how insurance works in an Uber accident, contact a skilled and experienced Uber accident attorney at our law firm today. We offer free consultations and can help you understand your rights after a rideshare accident.
What is The Process of Filing a Claim for an Accident Involving Uber in St. Louis, Missouri?
Filing a claim for an Uber accident involves several steps. Here’s a general overview of the process based on different scenarios:
- You Were Driving and Were Hit by an Uber Driver: If an Uber driver caused an accident while you were driving, you would typically file a claim with the Uber driver’s insurance or Uber’s insurance, depending on the driver’s status.
- You Were a Passenger in an Uber: If you were injured while riding in an Uber and the driver was at fault, you would file a claim with Uber’s insurance. Documenting the incident and seeking medical attention are crucial steps.
- You Were Hit as a Pedestrian by an Uber Driver: If you were hit by an Uber driver while walking, you would file a claim with the driver’s insurance or Uber’s insurance. Providing evidence of the accident and injuries will support your claim.
What Steps Should I Take After an Accident Involving Uber in St. Louis, Missouri?
Taking the right steps after an Uber accident in St. Louis, Missouri, can impact your case significantly. Here’s what you should do:
Prioritize Your Well-Being and Safety
Check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. Ensure that everyone involved is out of harm’s way and that emergency services are notified.
Reach Out to Local Authorities
Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. The officers from the St. Louis Police Department will document the scene and create an accident report, which is crucial for your claim.
Collect As Much Information Related to the Crash As Possible
Collect information from all parties involved, including names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers.
Notify Uber
Report the accident to Uber through the app or their website. They will provide instructions on how to proceed with a claim. This step is crucial for initiating the insurance claims process.
Assess Any Evident Injuries
Even if injuries seem minor, consider getting medical attention to ensure there are no underlying issues. Medical records will be important evidence related to your claim.
Document Everything
Take photos of the accident, your injuries, and any property damage. Keep all medical records and receipts related to your treatment.
Avoid Discussing Details of the Crash and Don’t Admit Fault
Do not admit fault and aside from speaking with the St. Louis Police Department, avoid discussing the details of the accident with other parties involved. Stick to the facts and let your lawyer handle the negotiations.
Consider Hiring Legal Representation
An experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court.
What Does Uber Do To Promote Safety in St. Louis?
Uber places a strong emphasis on safety, aiming to make their rideshare platform as secure as possible for everyone. As part of this commitment, Uber publishes an annual US Safety Report to track and improve safety standards across their platform.
The release of this report demonstrates their commitment to transparency and accountability. This report, which covers incidents from 2019 and 2020, showcases Uber’s progress and the effectiveness of its safety initiatives.
What Does Uber’s Safety Reports Cover?
The Uber Safety Report examines critical safety incidents involving Uber rideshare vehicles across the US. Despite statistical evidence showing that critical incidents are exceedingly rare—99.9% of trips occur without safety-related issues—Uber acknowledges that even a single incident represents a serious concern. The company remains committed to addressing and mitigating these risks.
Key Features
To enhance passenger and driver safety, Uber has introduced several key features:
- Verify My Ride: Riders receive a unique PIN to confirm their ride, ensuring they are matched with the correct driver.
- Reporting On-Trip For Passengers: This feature allows riders to discreetly report non-emergency issues during a trip.
- Seat Belt Reminders: Reminders are sent to encourage seat belt use for all passengers.
- Program Which Allows Audio Recording: A pilot program allows for audio recording during trips, with encrypted data accessible only if a safety incident is reported.
- Rider ID Verification: New riders must upload an ID for additional security checks.
Uber Crash Statistics
The report details the frequency and nature of accidents involving Uber vehicles. Although the report indicates that severe incidents are rare, consulting with an experienced St. Louis Uber accident lawyer in the event of a crash is crucial.
That said, Uber is transparent about the occurrence of accidents and injuries and continues to enhance safety measures based on these findings. This transparency helps Uber and users understand the risks associated with rideshare travel and drives continuous improvement in safety protocols.
Enhancements and Training For Drivers
Uber is committed to improving safety through technological innovations and enhanced driver training. The company has expanded its Safety team, introduced advanced safety features, and continuously updated its screening processes to ensure that only qualified drivers are on the road. 2019-2020, over 500,000 prospective drivers did not pass Uber’s rigorous screening, highlighting the company’s dedication to maintaining high safety standards.
As skilled and experienced Uber accident attorneys in St. Louis, Missouri, Beck & Beck Car Accident Lawyers understands the complexities of rideshare accidents and the importance of navigating these cases with expertise.
If you’ve been involved in an Uber accident, our legal team is here to assist you every step of the way. We can also help if you’ve been in an accident involving a taxi, shuttle, or limousine.
St. Louis, Missouri
There are many resources for victims of Lyft and Uber accidents in St. Louis, Missouri. If you need medical attention consider these options:
Advanced Injury Care offers urgent care and pain relief services. They are located at 8225 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63117.
Honea Auto Body can repair your car if you were in a crash with an Uber or Lyft. They handle auto body repair, collision repair, frame repair, and more.
Auto Art Collision and Restoration Center does great work when it comes to auto repair and restoration services. They can help out if you have a classic car as well. You can find them at 5305 Northrup Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110.
Experienced St. Louis Rideshare Lawyers
If you’ve been involved in an Uber accident in St. Louis, Missouri, securing the assistance of a skilled St. Louis Uber accident lawyer is essential. Rideshare accidents can involve multiple parties, including the driver, the rideshare company, and sometimes other motorists, making each case unique and complex. To navigate these complexities effectively, you need a dedicated legal representative who understands the intricacies of rideshare cases.
A knowledgeable attorney will provide crucial guidance on your legal options and help you through the entire claims process. Whether you’re seeking compensation for injuries or dealing with insurance claims, an attorney can ensure that your rights are protected. Don’t leave your case to chance—consulting with the legal team at our St. Louis law firm can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable outcome.
Locations which we serve include Florissant, Maplewood, Wellston, Richmond Heights, University City, Jennings, and more.
