St. Louis Uber Accident Attorney

Uber Accident Attorney in St. Louis

St. Louis Uber Accident Attorney – Rideshare services have transformed how we get around St. Louis with much convenience and accessibility at the tap of a button. However, just like any other form of transportation, uber accidents can leave victims with serious injuries and sometimes death.

As opposed to ordinary car accidents, Uber accidents involve complex legal considerations, which may overwhelm the victims. However, whether you’re a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver involved in an Uber accident, the law provides options for seeking compensation for recovery.

At Burger Law, we aim to help victims of a wide range of accidents recover the compensation they deserve. We have over ten decades of combined experience fighting for clients and obtaining compensation for their losses. Our firm’s St Louis Uber accident attorney will offer personalized legal support to ensure a successful outcome. If you are seeking recovery after an Uber accident, hire an attorney today to help you recover the damages you’re entitled to

What Should I Do If I’m Involved In An Uber Accident?

One may feel disoriented and stressed after being involved in an Uber accident. The mere fact that you sustained injuries can be a mind-wracking experience. Additionally, the fact that you are dealing with a Rideshare company may make it even more complex. However, you should remain composed and take steps that help protect your legal rights to secure appropriate compensation for your injuries. The personal injury team at Burger Law advises victims of Uber accidents to take the following steps:

Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention

Following any accident, you always prioritize your health. Check yourself and others involved in the crash for injuries. Whether you feel all fine or have sustained injuries, it’s crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible for medical evaluation.

Sometimes, injuries don’t show symptoms immediately after an accident. This is especially true because some conditions may only surface after days or weeks later. Therefore, timely assessment by a medical professional helps rule out the possibility of hidden injuries and, if any, treat them early.

Importantly, having a medical check-up provides documentation that is essential for filing an insurance claim later. These records serve as proof of injuries related to the accident, helping you build a strong case for fair recovery.

Call the Police and Report the Accident

A police report is often a critical piece of evidence in any accident claim. Under state law, you must report St. Louis, MO, car accidents resulting in property damage exceeding $500, injury, or fatality (RSMo 303.040). When law enforcement arrives, they will assess the scene, speak with witnesses and create an official report.

Importantly, make sure to provide accurate and detailed information. However, be keen to avoid speculating or admitting fault. The statements you make to police will likely go into the accident report, which plays a crucial role when it comes to determining liability for the crash.

Document the Scene

Next, remember to capture evidence when it is still fresh. If you’re able, collect as much information as possible from the scene. Take photos and videos of all the vehicles involved, the current road conditions, and visible injuries and damages.

Additionally, if there were witnesses at the time of the accident, write down contact details. Their testimony can be relied on to support your claim and preserve your right to compensation.

Notify Uber

After the accident, it’s important to notify the rideshare company. According to Uber’s official website, you are supposed to report as soon as it’s reasonable.

Uber has protocols in place for handling accident claims, but keep in mind that the company’s interest may not align with yours. Be cautious about the information you provide and avoid making definitive statements about fault.

Speak with a St. Louis Uber Accident Attorney

Dealing with a mix of considerations about Uber’s terms for covering accidents can be counseling. Additionally, dealing with insurance companies has never been easy, especially when they begin to shift blame. It is advisable to speak with an Uber accident attorney in St Louis to handle those complexities and ensure your rights are protected. Your lawyer can help gather evidence, negotiate for a fair settlement and, if necessary, file a lawsuit on your behalf.

Why Should I Call a St. Louis Uber Accident Attorney After a Rideshare Accident?

After a rideshare accident, calling a St. Louis Uber accident attorney can be essential due to the complex nature of these cases. While Uber offers insurance for their drivers, determining who is liable for your injuries can be challenging. Multiple parties could be involved, including the rideshare driver, the company, or another driver on the road. An experienced attorney can help untangle these layers of responsibility, ensuring that the correct party is held accountable for your damages.

One of the most significant challenges in rideshare accidents is determining which insurance policies apply at different stages of the ride. Rideshare companies have specific coverage, but it only applies under certain conditions, such as whether the driver was logged into the app or actively transporting a passenger. An attorney can analyze the details of the accident and ensure that you are pursuing the appropriate coverage so you don’t miss out on the compensation you deserve.

In addition to helping you understand liability and insurance, a St. Louis Uber accident attorney can advocate for your financial recovery. Insurance companies and their legal counsel often attempt to minimize the amount they pay out, but an attorney knows how to negotiate with them effectively. They will fight to secure a settlement for your injuries, lost wages and other damages, giving you peace of mind during an otherwise stressful time.

From gathering evidence and filing claims to representing you in negotiations, having a lawyer on your side provides critical legal guidance throughout the process. With their experience, you can focus on healing while knowing that your case is being handled by someone who understands the challenges of rideshare accidents.

What Burger Law Can Do for You

When you hire Burger Law, you’re choosing a team that is dedicated to fighting relentlessly for your rights. We don’t want your life to be defined by the accident, but our mission is to help you reclaim it. Here are the reasons you choose a lawyer from our firm:

Investigate the Accident

A detailed investigation helps gather important evidence to support your claim. This information is important in understanding what happened during the accident to form the basis for filing a claim. Our team will collect and compile admissible evidence to build a solid case on your behalf. We have the professional and legal ability to interpret the evidence correctly and identify what is relevant for building your case.

Determine Liability

You cannot file a claim without first determining who is responsible against whom to file a compensation claim. Investigating the facts of the crash can reveal factors like road conditions, vehicle malfunctions, or driver errors, which are crucial in establishing liability. We identify all liable parties and bring a claim or a lawsuit against them.

Negotiate with Insurers

Carrying out negotiations with insurers in personal injury cases can be quite challenging. This is because the insurer’s aim is to minimize their payouts to protect their profits. They might question the severity of injuries, request excessive documentation, or argue that the policy does not cover certain aspects of the claim. For instance, they may prolong the process and add stress to an already difficult situation. These tactics can prolong the process and add stress to an already difficult situation. This is meant to offer settlements that are much lower than what you might rightfully deserve.

However, the legal team at Burger Law understands your interests and those of the insurance companies. We will handle all negotiations with insurance companies with this in mind to ensure you receive a settlement that reflects your suffering.

Litigation Representation

With over 100 years of combined experience, we have served many clients and found that initial negotiations with insurance companies rarely lead to a fair settlement. If the insurer offers compensation that doesn’t cover your losses adequately, we pursue litigation to seek a just outcome.

In some cases, there may be disagreements about who is responsible for the accident. If liability is contested and evidence is disputed, taking the case to court can be necessary to establish fault and secure rightful compensation. Our trial attorneys will represent you in court and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Handle Paperwork and Legal Processes

In personal injury cases, paperwork is a cornerstone of building a winning claim. For instance, detailed paperwork can help substantiate the nature and extent of injuries, the circumstances of the accident and the impact on your life.

We will organize the necessary paperwork to strengthen your position during negotiations with insurers or litigation. These include the following:

• Medical records
• Police reports
• Photographic evidence
• Witness statements
• Insurance correspondence

In addition, we will take care of the deadlines and court filings so you can focus on your recovery.

What Damages Can I Recover If I’m Injured in an Uber Accident?

In a rideshare accident, victims may be entitled to several types of compensation, depending on the severity of their injuries and the circumstances of the accident.

• Medical expenses. You can recover compensation for both current and future medical bills, including costs for surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medication, and any other necessary treatments.
• Lost earnings and inability to earn an income. If you are unable to continue working because of your injuries, you may seek compensation for lost wages and diminished earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work in the future.
• Pain and suffering. This denotes damages to compensate you for the physical and emotional pain associated with the accident and your injuries. Though harder to quantify, an Uber accident attorney in St. Louis can help you calculate the appropriate amount.
• Property damage. If your personal property was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repair or replacement costs.

• Wrongful death benefits. If the Uber accident led to the death of a family member, the family members may seek compensation for funeral costs, among other expenses, in a wrongful death claim.

What Is My Uber Accident Case Worth?

Every Uber case is unique in the way it is valued based on its unique facts.  Therefore, the value of your case will depend on several factors, including:

• The severity of your injuries
• The extent of property damage
• Medical costs and future treatment needs
• Whether you are able to return to work
• Pain and suffering

Considering that no two cases are exactly alike, an attorney will evaluate your specific circumstances to provide an accurate estimate of what your case may be worth.

Determining Fault After a St. Louis Rideshare Accident

Determining fault in a rideshare accident can be complicated because multiple parties may be involved. In Missouri, fault is determined based on negligence, meaning the party whose negligence caused the accident is liable for damages. Here’s how fault is assessed in a rideshare accident:

• Driver negligence. If the Uber or Lyft driver was distracted, speeding, or otherwise negligent, they could be held liable for the accident.
• Other drivers. If another vehicle was involved and that driver was at fault, they might bear responsibility for your injuries.
• Third parties. In some cases, other parties, such as a rideshare company, vehicle manufacturer, or even a government entity responsible for road conditions, could share fault.

Your Uber accident lawyer plays a key role in investigating the accident. They will help determine fault and ensure you seek compensation from all responsible parties.

Liability Insurance Requirements for St. Louis Rideshare Drivers

Missouri has specific insurance requirements for Uber and Lyft drivers, as outlined in Missouri Revised Statutes Section 379.1702. Rideshare drivers must carry different levels of insurance based on their driving status:

• Offline (not logged into the App). The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
• Logged into the App, waiting for a ride request. Uber provides $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $100,000 per accident and $25,000 for property damage.
• En route to pick up a passenger or during a ride. Uber and Lyft offer $1 million in liability coverage and $1 million in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Therefore, the stage of the ride at the time of the accident determines which insurance policy is in effect. However, with the generous amounts available for coverage, it is wrong to assume that you will easily collect the amounts. Your lawyer can explain these insurance policies and help boost your odds of receiving adequate compensation.

Additionally, Missouri has enacted several laws regulating rideshare services to ensure safety and accountability. These include:

• Rideshare companies are required to conduct criminal background checks on their drivers.
• Rideshare vehicles must undergo regular inspections to ensure they meet safety standards.
• Rideshare Drivers must meet Missouri’s insurance requirements, as outlined above.
• Some rideshare companies are required to provide driver safety training.

These regulations help protect passengers and ensure that rideshare companies are held accountable in case it is determined that their safety practices played a role in the accident.

Common Injuries Resulting from Rideshare Accidents in St. Louis

Victims of rideshare accidents can suffer a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering trauma. Common injuries include:

• Whiplash and neck injuries
• Broken bones
• Head and brain injuries, including concussions, traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Cuts, bruises and lacerations
• Internal injuries
• Emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

These injuries can lead to long-term physical pain, emotional suffering, and financial strain. This is a key consideration when assessing the worth of your claim. Therefore, seeking immediate medical attention is highly recommended, not only for your health but also to document your injuries and how they impact your life in entirety.

FAQs About St. Louis Uber Accident Cases

Can I Sue Lyft or Uber If I Was Injured in a Car Accident?

Whether or not you can file a claim against Uber or Lyft depends on the unique circumstances of your case. Typically, Uber and Lyft provide liability coverage when the driver is en route to pick up a passenger or during a ride. However, suing the rideshare company directly is often more complicated due to their classification of drivers as independent contractors. An Uber accident attorney will assess your situation and determine the best course of action.

How Does an Insurance Claim Work in Uber and Lyft Accidents?

After an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, you would typically file a claim with the insurance policy that was in effect at the time of the accident. Depending on whether the driver was logged into the app and actively transporting passengers, either the driver’s personal insurance or the rideshare company’s insurance will apply. These cases can be tricky, and an attorney can help ensure you pursue the correct policy and receive fair compensation.

Are Uber Accidents Somehow Different from Car Accidents?

While Uber accidents may seem similar to other car accidents, the involvement of a rideshare company introduces a unique aspect. These cases often involve multiple layers of insurance coverage, potential liability from both the driver and the company and a need to navigate the company’s legal protections for drivers. Luckily, your Uber accident lawyer can help unravel these unique facts and apply them to your advantage.

When Can I Hold Uber Liable for Driver Negligence?

You may be able to hold Uber or Lyft liable if it can be proven that the driver was negligent and that Uber or Lyft policies or oversight contributed to the accident. For example, if Uber fails to conduct a proper background check or does not monitor a driver’s safety record, the company may share responsibility for the accident.

Does Uber Have to Perform Safety and Background Checks on St. Louis Drivers?

Under Missouri law, rideshare companies like Uber are required to conduct background checks on their drivers. These checks are meant to ensure that drivers meet the company’s safety standards and are legally eligible to drive passengers. If Uber fails to comply with these regulations, they may be held accountable in the event of an accident.

How Long Does It Take to Recover Damages for Uber Crash Injuries?

The timeline for recovering damages varies depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries and whether or not the insurance company is willing to settle. Some cases are resolved within a few months, while others, especially those that go to trial, can take years. Your attorney can help expedite the process while ensuring you receive justice.

How Long Do I Have to File Litigation Against Negligent Uber Drivers?

In Missouri, if you are involved in an Uber accident and sustain injuries, you have up to five years from the date of the accident to take legal action against the negligent driver (Missouri Revised Statutes Section 516.120). It is advisable to initiate legal proceedings sooner in order to preserve evidence and bolster the strength of your case.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Uber Accident Lawyer in St. Louis?

At Burger Law, we receive no fee unless we win compensation for you. This is based on a contingency fee arrangement, where we don’t require you to pay legal fees initially. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal fees. We are committed to helping you recover compensation without adding financial strain to an already difficult situation.

Gary Burger

Founder | Injury Attorney
Gary Burger has dedicated his career to standing up against bullies. The founder and principal attorney of Burger Law | St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer has helped hundreds of Missouri and Illinois individuals and families recover th …
Years of experience: 30 years
Location: St. Louis, MO

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