Joplin Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Get Legal Help After an Uber or Lyft Accident in Joplin, MO

The Joplin rideshare accident attorneys at Aaron Sachs & Associates are here to help if you were injured in an accident involving Uber or Lyft. We know how to hold drivers and rideshare companies accountable, and we have the resources to help you fight for the full compensation you are owed.

Our legal team has represented thousands of accident victims throughout Missouri, and we are ready to put our experience to work for you. We offer free initial consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Call (888) 287-1046 or contact us online today to request a free case evaluation.

Who is Liable for a Joplin Rideshare Accident?

Liability for a rideshare accident will depend on the specific circumstances of the case. In some situations, the rideshare driver may be held liable. In others, the rideshare company may be responsible.

When the Rideshare Driver is Liable

Uber and Lyft drivers are considered independent contractors, not employees. As a result, the rideshare companies are typically not liable for the actions of their drivers. However, if the driver was working at the time of the accident, the rideshare company’s insurance policy may provide coverage. In Missouri, rideshare drivers are required to carry their own personal auto insurance policies with the following minimum coverage limits:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
• $10,000 for property damage per accident

Uber and Lyft both offer contingent liability coverage that is designed to provide additional protection when the driver’s personal insurance policy doesn’t cover the full cost of an accident. This coverage is only available if the driver was working at the time of the accident and the driver’s personal insurance policy coverage is insufficient.

When the Rideshare Company is Liable

In some cases, the rideshare company may be held liable for a rideshare accident. Rideshare companies have a duty to make sure that the drivers they hire are qualified and do not have a history of reckless or negligent driving. If the rideshare company fails to properly vet a driver, and the driver causes an accident, the company may be held liable for any resulting injuries.

Rideshare companies may also be held liable for accidents caused by their drivers if the driver was working at the time of the accident. Uber and Lyft both have $1 million liability policies that are designed to provide coverage in these situations.

FAQs About Uber & Lyft Accidents in Joplin, MO

What insurance coverage applies after a rideshare accident?

Insurance coverage varies based on the driver's activity:​

• App Off: Only the driver's personal insurance applies.
• App On, No Ride Accepted: Uber and Lyft provide limited liability coverage.
• Ride Accepted or Passenger Onboard: Up to $1 million in liability coverage is provided, including uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

It's important to note that deductibles and coverage limits can differ between Uber and Lyft.

What should I do immediately after a rideshare accident in Joplin?

After ensuring everyone's safety, call 911 to report the accident. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Document the scene with photos and gather contact information from all parties involved. Report the incident through the rideshare app and consult with a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and potential compensation.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly after an accident?

While Uber and Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, there are situations where the companies can be held liable. If the driver was logged into the app or transporting a passenger, the company's insurance may cover damages. Additionally, if the company was negligent in hiring or retaining the driver, a lawsuit might be possible.

What compensation can I seek after a rideshare accident?

Victims of rideshare accidents may be entitled to compensation for:​

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Long-term care needs

The exact amount depends on the severity of injuries and other case-specific factors .​

What is the statute of limitations for filing a rideshare accident claim in Missouri?

In Missouri, you generally have five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the accident resulted in a fatality, a wrongful death claim must be filed within three years. It's advisable to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure timely filing.​

How Can a Joplin Rideshare Accident Attorney Help?

If you have been injured in a rideshare accident, our Joplin Uber and Lyft accident lawyers can help you seek compensation in a number of ways:

• Investigating the Accident: We can launch a comprehensive investigation into the accident to determine what happened and who was liable. Our legal team will gather all available evidence, including the police report, witness statements, and any available video footage.
• Estimating the Full Value of Your Damages: We will work with experts to calculate the full value of your damages. In addition to your medical expenses and lost wages, we will also seek compensation for your pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Negotiating With the Insurance Company: Our Joplin rideshare accident attorneys are skilled negotiators, and we will fight to get you a fair settlement. We will handle all discussions with the insurance company and will work to resolve your case as quickly as possible.
• Taking Your Case to Court: If the insurance company won’t make a fair settlement offer, our legal team is ready to take your case to court. We have extensive litigation experience, and we are not afraid to go up against the big insurance companies.

Our Joplin rideshare accident lawyers offer free initial consultations, and we are happy to meet with you in our office or at your home, or hospital room. We handle all cases on a contingent fee basis, which means that you do not owe us anything unless we recover compensation for you.

To schedule an appointment for a free consultation, call (888) 287-1046 or online.