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Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have changed how we travel around St. Louis. As more people turn to these convenient options, we also see an increase in accidents involving rideshare vehicles. If we are injured as passengers, drivers, or if a rideshare driver hits our car, questions about personal injury and compensation often come up.
Navigating these claims can be complicated since there may be several parties and insurance policies involved. With the right legal support, we can make sure the responsible parties are held liable and that we receive the compensation we deserve for our injuries.
At OnderLaw, we bring years of experience handling personal injury law cases throughout St. Louis and beyond. Our team is made up of attorneys and staff who call this region home, and we’re proud to be deeply rooted in our community. The focus of our practice has always been helping our neighbors during tough times, and we are well known for putting our clients first.
Why people pick our firm:
Our dedication has earned us attention not only from local residents, but also from national legal organizations like the American Association for Justice and Plaintiff Focus. We have also received acknowledgment in the media, including features in top newspapers for our effective client representation.
We know that a personal injury case can be overwhelming. That’s why we guide you every step of the way, handle all communication, and keep you informed, while you focus on your health and peace of mind. Each client is important to us, and we make sure they get direct access to their attorney and updates throughout the process.
Our process is straightforward:
We do not work alone. By staying active in organizations like the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys, we keep our knowledge up to date and advocate for better protection for accident victims. We also collaborate with other respected firms, including Cantor Injury Law, to strengthen the resources available to our clients.
Call us for a free consultation if you want a dedicated legal advocate on your side.
Rideshare accidents have become a pressing issue as services like Uber and Lyft have become more common. Studies show that since 2011, overall traffic fatalities increased by about 2% to 3% in the United States after the widespread use of rideshare apps. Larger cities saw bigger changes in accident numbers after the arrival of these services.
We can see that rideshare drivers often spend a large portion of their time—between 40% and 60%—searching for their next passenger. This extra time on the roads increases the likelihood of being involved in a motor vehicle accident.
In St. Louis, rideshare-related crashes are part of a bigger traffic safety problem. Car fatalities in our city make up over 21% of all traffic deaths in Missouri. The state is ranked 12th for most dangerous roads in the nation with 23.1 road deaths per 100,000 people.
Top causes of rideshare crashes in St. Louis include:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Increase in US fatalities | 2% – 3% |
| St. Louis share of MO deaths | 21.33% |
| State road fatality rate | 23.1 per 100,000 |
Rideshare accidents in St. Louis often happen due to several common problems. Distracted driving is especially risky, as drivers may check their phones or talk with passengers instead of watching the road. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol also puts everyone at risk and brings clear issues of negligence and liability to the surface. Bad weather, like heavy rain or slick roads, raises the chance of crashes, even for careful drivers.
Speeding and reckless driving often play a major role as well. Ignoring the need to yield or running red lights can quickly lead to accidents. Traffic in St. Louis is usually busy, which makes any mistake or moment of lost focus dangerous.
Here’s a quick summary of the key causes:
| Cause | Risk Involved |
|---|---|
| Distracted driving | Slower reaction time |
| Impaired driving | Poor judgment |
| Speeding | Less control over vehicle |
| Hazardous weather | Reduced visibility, slick roads |
| Failing to yield | Higher risk of intersection crashes |
| Reckless driving | Increased chance of losing control |
Legal factors often come into play after a rideshare crash. We see questions about liability and whether modified comparative negligence applies. Sometimes, multiple parties share fault. Depending on where the accident happens, issues like premises liability, construction accident risks, or even rules similar to dram shop laws could affect claims and settlements. In cases with commercial vehicles, trucking accidents can add more complexity. Each of these factors shapes how we address a rideshare case and work to protect your rights. For more details about liability and regulations for rideshare accidents, visit this article on regulating ridesharing platforms through tort law.
If we find ourselves hurt in an accident while using a rideshare, getting medical attention should be our top priority. Even with minor injuries, we should still see a healthcare provider to make sure everything is documented. Medical records are essential because they show how the crash affected us and help support our case.
After receiving care, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible. This can include:
Collecting these documents will help us build a strong claim. We should also continue seeing our doctors as needed and follow all their instructions. Keeping up with appointments and following medical advice can show insurance carriers that our injuries are real and require ongoing care.
It’s also a good idea to contact a lawyer soon after the crash. With the help of legal professionals, we can perform a detailed investigation, organize all evidence, and make sure we have everything needed to prove liability against the rideshare driver.
When we keep accurate records and follow up on every piece of evidence, insurance companies are less likely to deny our claim or offer less than we deserve. If we need help finding a doctor or specialist, we can reach out to those who have strong community connections. Having the right support and thorough documentation can make all the difference when handling insurance investigations and seeking fair compensation after a rideshare accident.
| Action Step | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Get medical attention | Documents injuries and starts case file |
| Collect accident evidence | Supports claim and clarifies facts |
| Speak to a lawyer | Begins investigation and gathers key details |
| Continue medical treatment | Shows injury seriousness to insurers |
After a rideshare accident, we may be eligible to receive several types of compensation. The amount depends on the details of the accident, the injuries involved, and the insurance coverage that applies. Missouri law requires every driver to have auto insurance, and rideshare companies like Uber offer their own coverage if the driver’s policy is not enough.
Here are some of the damages we may be able to claim:
| Type of Compensation | What It Covers |
|---|---|
| Medical Costs | Hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, medicine, doctor visits, physical therapy |
| Property Damage | Repairs or replacement of any personal property damaged in the accident |
| Lost Wages | Pay we missed if our injuries kept us from working |
| Future Earning Losses | Reduction in our future income if we can’t work like we used to |
| Emotional Distress | Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and costs of counseling caused by the accident |
| Pain and Suffering | Physical pain and the suffering we experience during and after recovery |
| Loss of Consortium | Impact on our relationships with close family members because of the accident |
| Wrongful Death | Support for families who lost a loved one in a rideshare crash |
| Brain or Head Injury | Special care costs, ongoing therapy, or long-term treatment for a brain injury |
Medical bills can add up quickly. These include emergency care, surgery, therapy, and medication. If a crash leaves someone with a serious brain injury, the costs can be even higher because ongoing care or rehabilitation may be needed.
We might also face lost income if we are unable to work for a period of time. If our injuries prevent us from returning to our previous job or reduce our future earning ability, we may be able to claim lost future income.
For cases involving wrongful death, the family of the person who passed away may seek damages for funeral costs, lost support, and the pain caused by their loss.
Missouri law gives us options for compensation. If an insurance company or the driver does not have enough coverage, or if a claim is denied, we may use our own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage to help pay for our losses. Filing a UM claim does not result in penalties as long as the other party is shown to be at fault.
It is important that we look closely at insurance coverage and policy details. There may be more than one source of compensation, and taking action quickly allows us to recover the full amount allowed by law. For more details about how rideshare claims and regulations work, see this guide about rideshare company liability.
If you have been involved in a rideshare accident with Uber or Lyft, we are here to help. Our St. Louis car accident lawyers can review your situation and advise you on your options during a free consultation. There is no pressure and no obligation to move forward.
What you can expect:
| What We Offer | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Free initial consultation | No financial commitment required |
| Answers to your questions | Clear understanding of your rights |
| Honest case evaluation | Know if your case is strong |
| Friendly, supportive team | Comfortable, no-stress experience |
We know deciding to contact an attorney is not easy. Our team aims to make the process simple and straightforward so you can make the best choice for your future. If you need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
If we are in a rideshare accident, we should first make sure everyone is safe and call 911 if there are any injuries. We need to exchange info with all drivers involved and get contact details from any witnesses. Taking pictures of the scene and our injuries can help with our claim. We should also report the accident to the rideshare company through their app.
Common reasons for rideshare crashes in St. Louis include: Distracted driving, such as drivers using GPS or the rideshare app Tiredness from working long hours Driving during busy times or in bad weather Not following traffic laws These factors can raise the risk of getting into an accident on city roads.
Rideshare accidents often involve unique insurance rules. Most rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft provide coverage, but how much depends on what the driver was doing during the accident. When the driver is waiting for a ride request, limited coverage may apply. Once the driver accepts a ride or has a passenger, their insurance gives higher protection, which can help cover medical bills and property damage. Rules can be complex and sometimes create gaps between personal and company policies. To learn more about these insurance details, visit this analysis on insurance and rideshare accident laws.
Yes, if we are injured, we may be able to recover money for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. The amount depends on who was at fault and the insurance policies in place. If a driver or company acted carelessly, we may be able to seek damages through the company’s coverage or, in some cases, through our own uninsured or underinsured motorist policy.
In Missouri, the time limit (statute of limitations) for filing a personal injury claim, including rideshare accidents, is usually five years. For property damage, it may be less. It’s important for us to start the process early to protect our rights and avoid missing deadlines.
Rideshare companies have their own rules and insurance plans. These rules can impact whether the company, the driver, or both are held at fault. For example, if the driver was using the app for work at the time, company insurance may step in. If not, only the driver’s personal insurance might apply. Laws in cities such as St. Louis can also change how responsibility is shared. For more on how rules are changing for rideshare companies and accident claims, see this study about rideshare regulations and liability.
