Liability in a Missouri rideshare accident depends on two questions: who caused the crash, and what the rideshare driver was doing in the app when it happened. The answers determine who is legally responsible and which insurance policy actually pays and how you should approach your car accident claim.
If you are unsure where to start, a St. Louis car accident lawyer can help determine liability and guide you through your claim. Schedule your free consultation with Meyerkord & Kurth today.
The Rideshare Driver
The rideshare driver is often the first person considered for liability after a rideshare accident in Missouri. Missouri follows a fault-based (tort) insurance system, meaning the party who caused the accident, whether the rideshare driver, another motorist, or a third party, typically bears financial responsibility. The driver may be liable if they caused or contributed to the collision by negligent or reckless acts, including but not limited to:
- Distracted driving (using the app, texting, GPS interaction)
- Speeding
- Aggressive or careless maneuvers
- Failing to yield or obey traffic laws
- Driving under the influence
- Falling asleep or fatigued driving
Another At-Fault Driver
If a third-party motorist caused the crash, that driver and their insurance are liable, whether you were a rideshare passenger, the rideshare driver, or in another vehicle. When the at-fault driver carries too little insurance to cover serious injuries, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can come into play, including UM/UIM coverage the rideshare companies provide during a ride in some circumstances.
However, if you were hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, there are important legal steps that can affect your ability to recover compensation. Contact our St. Louis underinsured motorist accident lawyers today.
The Rideshare Company (Uber/Lyft)
Uber and Lyft are classified in Missouri as “transportation network companies” (TNCs). Drivers are independent contractors, but the rideshare insurance policy may kick in.
- App Off: If the driver is not logged into the rideshare app, the vehicle is treated as personal use, and only personal auto insurance is available in the event of an uncovered loss.
- App On, Waiting for Request: Missouri law requires TNCs to provide third-party liability coverage of at least $50,000 for bodily injury to one person, $100,000 bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage in these circumstances. This coverage applies if the driver’s insurance won’t pay or is exhausted.
- On the way to pick up a rider/transporting a passenger: Both Uber and Lyft offer coverage up to $1 million per accident for bodily injury or property damage once the ride is accepted or in progress.
Establishing the driver’s exact app status at the moment of impact is often the single most important fact in the case.
Other Potentially Liable Parties
Rideshare crashes follow the same rules as other Missouri accidents in every other respect. A vehicle manufacturer may be liable for a defect that caused or worsened the crash, or a government entity may share responsibility for a dangerous road condition, subject to shorter claim deadlines.
How Does the Injured Party Get Paid?
Most rideshare accident victims recover compensation through an insurance settlement. The process begins by identifying every insurance policy that may apply and filing claims with the appropriate insurers. Once the claim is supported with evidence, negotiations typically begin. If the insurance company accepts liability, it may offer a settlement to resolve the claim without going to court.
However, not every case settles. If the insurance companies dispute which policy applies, deny liability, or refuse to offer fair compensation, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. While most cases still resolve before trial, litigation is sometimes the best way to pursue the full compensation you deserve.
If you were injured in a rideshare accident, Meyerkord & Kurth can identify the available insurance coverage, handle negotiations with the insurance companies, and, when necessary, take your case to court. Contact us today for a free consultation.