Is Uber Or Lyft Responsible For My Injuries After An Accident In Missouri?

Sansone & Lauber | | Rideshare Accidents
Is Uber Or Lyft Responsible For My Injuries After An Accident In Missouri

In Missouri, Uber or Lyft can be legally and financially responsible for your injuries after a rideshare accident if their driver was at fault and the rideshare insurance coverage was active at the time of the crash—so if you were hurt, call Sansone & Lauber at 314-863-0500 right now to protect your rights.

When you’re injured in a rideshare crash, your first questions are usually:

  • Who pays my medical bills?

  • Does Uber or Lyft have to take responsibility?

  • Do I sue the driver, the company, or both?

The truth is: responsibility in a Missouri Uber or Lyft accident depends on what the driver was doing in the app at the time of the crash—and that’s exactly what insurance companies will fight over.

At Sansone & Lauber, we help injured riders, drivers, and other motorists throughout St. Louis and across Missouri figure out:

  • Which insurance policies apply

  • Whether Uber or Lyft is on the hook

  • How to pursue the maximum compensation available under Missouri law

If you were hurt in a rideshare accident anywhere in Missouri, reach out now:
📞 314-863-0500 – Free consultation. No fee unless we win.

How Missouri Treats Uber and Lyft (Transportation Network Companies)

Uber and Lyft are known in Missouri law as Transportation Network Companies (TNCs). Missouri statutes define TNCs and “prearranged rides” and require specific insurance and safety obligations for these companies and their drivers.

What this means for you:

  • Uber and Lyft must carry certain minimum insurance coverage for rideshare trips in Missouri.

  • The amount of coverage changes depending on what the driver was doing in the app.

  • If the driver was off the app, it’s treated like a normal car crash (driver’s own insurance first).

  • If the driver was on the app (even without a passenger), rideshare-related coverage may apply.

Understanding these “periods” is crucial to knowing whether Uber or Lyft is responsible.

When Is Uber or Lyft Responsible for My Injuries?

In most Missouri rideshare cases, Uber or Lyft is financially responsible through their commercial insurance policy, not because they’re the driver’s employer, but because state law and company policies require coverage during certain parts of a trip.

Let’s break it down by the driver’s app status.

1. App OFF – Personal Use (Period 0)

  • Driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app.

  • They may be running personal errands or just driving home.

Who is responsible?

  • Uber or Lyft: NO. Their coverage does not apply.US Claims

  • Driver’s personal auto insurance: Typically the main policy.

  • If another driver caused the crash, that other driver’s insurer is usually on the hook.

If you’re hit by an Uber/Lyft vehicle when the app is off, we treat it like a standard Missouri car accident case—but the rideshare history can still be important to investigate.

2. App ON, Waiting for a Ride Request (Period 1)

  • Driver is logged into the Uber or Lyft app and is available to accept rides, but:

    • No passenger has been accepted yet.

In Missouri, when a rideshare driver is logged in but not actively on a trip, law and rideshare policies typically require at least:

  • $50,000 in liability coverage per injured person

  • $100,000 per accident

  • $25,000 in property damage coverage

Who is responsible?

  • If the rideshare driver is at fault:

    • Their personal auto insurance may apply first.

    • If that’s not enough or doesn’t apply, the Uber/Lyft contingent policy kicks in up to those limits.

  • If you’re in another car or a pedestrian, you may be able to claim directly against that rideshare coverage.

This is where things get tricky, and insurance companies love to argue about whether the driver was actually “online” or not.

3. En Route to Pick Up a Rider or During the Trip (Period 2)

This is the most protective scenario for injury victims.

  • Driver has accepted a ride request and is:

    • Driving to pick up the passenger, or

    • Actively transporting the passenger to their destination.

During this time, Uber and Lyft typically provide up to $1,000,000 in liability coverage for injuries and property damage caused by the driver’s negligence, as long as the trip is active.

Who is responsible?

  • If the Uber or Lyft driver is at fault:

    • Uber or Lyft’s $1,000,000 policy is usually on the hook.

  • If another driver is at fault:

    • That driver’s insurance is primary.

    • You may still tap into the rideshare coverage, particularly underinsured motorist coverage, depending on policy terms.

If you are:

  • A passenger in the Uber or Lyft

  • A driver or passenger in another vehicle

  • A pedestrian or cyclist

…and you’re hurt while a trip is active, the rideshare company’s substantial policy may be available to you.

👉 If you were in an active Uber or Lyft trip when the crash happened in Missouri, call 314-863-0500 now to find out how much coverage may be available.

When Is the Uber or Lyft Driver Personally Responsible?

Even with rideshare insurance, the individual driver can still be personally responsible in some situations:

  • They were off the app when the collision happened.

  • Their personal insurance policy excludes rideshare driving and denies coverage.

  • The damage exceeds policy limits, and we look at additional sources of recovery.

In many Missouri rideshare cases, we end up with multiple layers of insurance:

  1. Driver’s personal policy

  2. Uber or Lyft’s contingent policy (if app on, no trip yet)

  3. Uber or Lyft’s $1,000,000 commercial policy (during a trip)

  4. Possible underinsured motorist coverage or other policies

Our job at Sansone & Lauber is to untangle these layers and pursue every dollar of coverage available for you.

What If Another Driver Caused the Uber/Lyft Crash?

Sometimes, the Uber or Lyft driver is not the one who caused the wreck. For example:

  • Another driver runs a red light and smashes into your Uber.

  • A distracted driver rear-ends your Lyft at high speed.

  • A drunk driver crosses the center line into your rideshare.

In these situations:

  • The at-fault driver’s insurance is usually responsible first.

  • Uber or Lyft’s insurance may still come into play if:

    • The other driver doesn’t have enough coverage (underinsured),

    • Or is uninsured altogether.

You may have multiple claims, which can be complicated—but also create more potential recovery if your injuries are serious.

Common Types of Uber & Lyft Accidents in Missouri

Across St. Louis, Kansas City, Columbia, Springfield, and rural highways, we see rideshare crashes such as:

  • Rear-end collisions in downtown St. Louis or near popular nightlife areas

  • Intersection crashes at Kings highway, Grand, Lindbergh, Olive, Manchester, Highway 40 (I-64), I-44, and I-70

  • Side-impact (“T-bone”) collisions when drivers rush yellow lights

  • Crashes near Lambert-St. Louis International Airport and rideshare pick-up zones

  • Highway collisions when a driver is checking the app, GPS, or ride information

  • Nighttime crashes involving drunk or drowsy drivers

Rideshare drivers often juggle:

  • The app

  • GPS directions

  • Texts and calls

  • Passenger conversations

That combination increases the risk of distracted driving and serious collisions.

What To Do After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Missouri

If you’re reading this soon after the crash, here’s what to do right now to protect your health and your case.

1. Call 911 and get medical help

  • Report the crash to the police.

  • Accept evaluation from EMS.

  • Go to the ER or urgent care—even if you “feel fine.” Many serious injuries show up hours or days later.

2. Make sure a police report is created

  • Explain exactly what happened.

  • Tell the officer:

    • That you were in an Uber or Lyft (or hit by one).

    • Any pain, dizziness, confusion, or discomfort you feel.

3. Screenshot and document the rideshare trip

This is huge for proving that Uber or Lyft coverage applies:

  • Take screenshots of:

    • The trip screen

    • Driver’s name and photo

    • Vehicle description and license plate

    • Pickup and drop-off locations

  • Save any emails or app notifications about the trip.

4. Collect evidence at the scene (if you can do so safely)

  • Photos of:

    • Vehicle damage

    • License plates

    • Road and weather conditions

    • Skid marks, traffic signals, and signs

  • Names and contact info of:

    • Witnesses

    • Other drivers

5. Don’t discuss fault with anyone at the scene

  • Stay factual.

  • Avoid statements like:

    • “I’m fine.”

    • “It was partly my fault.”

  • These comments can be twisted later.

6. Do not give recorded statements to Uber, Lyft, or any insurer

Insurers (including your own) may call quickly, wanting:

  • Statements

  • Authorizations

  • Quick settlements

Politely say:

“I am not comfortable giving a statement right now. I am speaking with a lawyer. Please contact my attorney at Sansone & Lauber, 314-863-0500.”

7. Call a Missouri rideshare accident lawyer right away

The sooner you call, the stronger your case can be.

👉 Call Sansone & Lauber now at 314-863-0500 for a free case evaluation.

Missouri Law Basics That Affect Your Uber/Lyft Claim

Statute of Limitations – How Long Do I Have?

Under current Missouri law, most personal injury cases—including Uber and Lyft accidents—must generally be filed within five years from the date of the injury.

Important notes:

  • Lawmakers have proposed shortening this deadline in recent years, but as of late 2025, the general rule remains five years.

  • Special situations (government entities, minors, etc.) can affect timing.

  • Waiting hurts:

    • Evidence disappears.

    • Witnesses move or forget.

    • Insurers use delays to argue your injuries weren’t serious.

Bottom line: Don’t rely on the full five years. Talk to a lawyer as soon as possible.

Comparative Fault – What If I Was Partly at Fault?

Missouri follows a pure comparative fault system.

  • You can recover damages even if you were mostly at fault—in theory, up to 99%.

  • Your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Example:

  • Jury says your damages are $200,000.

  • They find you 20% at fault (maybe you weren’t wearing a seatbelt, etc.).

  • You can still recover 80%, or $160,000.

Insurance companies will try to blame you or downplay your injuries. Our job is to fight back and protect the value of your claim.

What Compensation Can I Recover After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Missouri?

Depending on your case, you may be able to recover:

  • Medical expenses

    • ER visits, surgery, hospital stays

    • Physical therapy, chiropractic care, pain management

    • Future medical treatment and medications

  • Lost income and reduced earning capacity

    • Time off work

    • Lost benefits or promotions

    • Permanent disability affecting your career

  • Pain and suffering

    • Physical pain

    • Emotional distress and anxiety

    • Loss of enjoyment of life

  • Property damage

    • Vehicle repair or replacement

    • Damaged personal items (phone, laptop, etc.)

  • Wrongful death damages

    • If you lost a loved one in a rideshare crash, Missouri law allows certain family members to pursue:

      • Funeral and burial costs

      • Loss of financial support

      • Loss of companionship and guidance

The severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and the available insurance coverage all play a major role in your ultimate recovery.

How Sansone & Lauber Helps After an Uber or Lyft Accident

Rideshare cases are more complex than standard car wrecks. We handle the complexity so you can focus on healing.

Here’s how we build a strong Missouri rideshare case:

  1. Immediate Investigation

    • Obtain and review the police report

    • Gather witness statements and scene photos

    • Preserve digital evidence from the app when possible

  2. Confirming Driver App Status

    • Determine whether the ride was:

      • Off app

      • App on, no trip

      • Active trip

    • This dictates what insurance coverage applies.

  3. Demanding and Reviewing Insurance Information

    • We push for:

      • Uber/Lyft insurance details

      • Driver’s personal policy

      • Any other applicable policies

  4. Working with Experts

    • Accident reconstructionists

    • Medical experts

    • Vocational and economic experts (to prove future losses)

  5. Handling All Communications and Negotiations

    • We speak to the insurers so you don’t have to.

    • We fight lowball offers and delay tactics.

  6. Preparing Every Case as If It Will Go to Trial

    • Strong preparation often leads to better settlements.

    • If the company won’t pay what’s fair, we are ready to take your case to court.

👉 You don’t have to fight Uber or Lyft alone. Call Sansone & Lauber at 314-863-0500 today.

Local Focus: Uber & Lyft Accidents in St. Louis and Across Missouri

We represent clients injured in rideshare crashes:

  • In St. Louis City and County

  • Along I-64, I-44, I-55, I-70, I-270, and I-170

  • Near Ballpark Village, the Arch, the Central West End, Clayton, and the Grove

  • In Kansas City, Columbia, Springfield, and throughout Missouri

Whether your crash happened downtown, on a crowded highway, or in a quiet neighborhood street, we understand the local roads, local courts, and local juries.

Frequently Asked Questions: Uber & Lyft Accidents in Missouri

1. Is Uber or Lyft always responsible if I’m hurt in a rideshare accident?

No. In Missouri, whether Uber or Lyft is responsible depends on:

  • Whether the driver was logged into the app

  • Whether they had accepted a ride or were in the middle of a trip

  • Who actually caused the crash

However, if you were injured as a passenger during an active trip, the rideshare company’s $1,000,000 policy is often available.

2. What if the other driver caused the crash, not my Uber or Lyft driver?

You may have a claim against:

  • The at-fault driver’s insurance, and

  • Possibly Uber or Lyft’s coverage if you were in an active trip and the other driver is uninsured or underinsured.

We review all available insurance layers to maximize your recovery.

3. How long do I have to bring a claim for my Missouri rideshare accident?

Generally, you have up to five years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit in Missouri, though you should never wait that long to speak with a lawyer.

There are exceptions and proposals to shorten this deadline, so it’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible.

4. What if I was partially at fault—for example, not wearing a seatbelt?

Under Missouri’s pure comparative fault rule, you may still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for what happened.

  • Your damages may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

  • Insurance companies will try to exaggerate your share of blame—we push back hard.

5. How much is my Uber or Lyft accident case worth?

It depends on:

  • How serious and permanent your injuries are

  • How much medical treatment you need

  • How the injuries affect your work and daily life

  • The amount of available insurance coverage

The only honest way to get a realistic idea of value is to talk to an experienced Missouri rideshare accident lawyer who will closely review the facts of your case.

👉 Call Sansone & Lauber at 314-863-0500 for a free, no-obligation case review.

Call Sansone & Lauber Right Now For Immediate HelpIs Uber Or Lyft Responsible For My Injuries After An Accident In Missouri?

If you’re asking, “Is Uber or Lyft responsible for my injuries after an accident in Missouri?”, you’re already dealing with enough stress.

Let us:

  • Investigate the crash

  • Sort out the insurance mess

  • Fight for every dollar you deserve

You focus on healing. We focus on winning.

📞 Call Sansone & Lauber now at 314-863-0500.
📩 Ask us for a free consultation about your Uber or Lyft accident anywhere in Missouri.