In Missouri, rideshare accidents are increasingly common, especially in cities like St. Louis and Kansas City, MO. After an injury, hiring the best Missouri rideshare lawyers specializing in Lyft and Uber accidents is essential. The reason is because they will know when and how liability applies, and can help you pursue full compensation.
Recent data shows Missouri requires drivers logged into Uber or Lyft apps to carry at least $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident in liability coverage before a ride is accepted. Once a passenger is onboard, that coverage increases to $1 million. Rideshare drivers also must carry uninsured motorist protection under state law.
Ride-sharing services have wholly transformed the world of transportation. With the appearance of popular platforms, it has become incredibly easier to move from one place to another. However, with such convenience comes worries: what happens if an accident occurs? Who is responsible? This post will explore who is liable and what to be aware of.
How Do Ride-Sharing Platforms in the State of Missouri Function?
In most cases, drivers engaged in riding their vehicles for companies are not employees – rather, they are independent contractors. As a result, the liability aspect is substantially altered. Undoubtedly, understanding how such platforms operate is essential for recognizing whose responsibility accidents become.
The Role of the Driver
Unfortunately, the driver is not always free of responsibility. If the accident occurred due to their distraction or failure to follow traffic laws, they can be held accountable. In such cases, injured passengers, other drivers, pedestrians, or even the victims’ heirs may be entitled to seek compensation through the driver’s liability insurance.
However, this process can become complicated, as insurance policies vary widely in coverage limits, exclusions, and claim processes, making it challenging for victims to secure the full amount they deserve.
The Company’s Liability
It is essential to investigate the driver’s status at the moment of an accident. If the individual was transporting their passenger or moving toward them, the insurance organized by the company will intervene. Typically, insurance limits vary from insignificant to substantial, covering bodily injuries and vehicle damage. Yet, in the case of a car accident not caused by the company’s registered driver, the entity will deny all involvement, and the only way to seek coverage will be through the driver’s insurance.
Third-Party Involvement
Since accidents frequently involve other vehicles and people, someone other than the ride-sharing driver is likely responsible for the incident. What is more, if the other driver is at fault, then his insurance company has to contribute as well.
At the same time, if the case ends up going to court, the degrees of responsibility of each involved party need to be established, which affects the final compensation.
Insurance considerations
Rideshare companies carry commercial insurance, but it only applies under specific conditions. The coverage depends on whether the driver is actively using the app, en route to pick up a passenger, or transporting one.
Since different insurance policies apply during these distinct periods, drivers must understand when coverage begins and ends. Awareness of how personal and commercial policies interact is essential. Knowing the limitations and terms of both can help drivers navigate claims more effectively and increase their chances of receiving full compensation after an accident.
Legal perspective
Legal questions surrounding ride-sharing accidents can be difficult and confusing, so most people need legal expertise. Personal injury and transportation law experts can help establish the liability of the parties, collect evidence in support of claims, and negotiate a fair settlement. Additionally, attorneys can represent their clients in court and achieve favorable outcomes.
Documentation
Naturally, anyone who was involved in a ride-sharing accident should document it. Photos of the vehicles, eyewitness accounts, and police reports are powerful tools in support of the claim and play a critical role in identifying the responsible party.
Ways to Prevent Occurrences
While not entirely under the control of individual drivers, some events leading to car crashes can be anticipated and prevented by careful driving. Furthermore, everyone involved in the transportation process, including customers, should prioritize safety. Seat belts save lives, and distraction-free driving is more reliable. It is in everyone’s best interests to prevent accidents from happening.
Conclusion
Ride-sharing accidents bring additional complexity due to several involved parties and unclear degrees of responsibility. However, these issues can still be managed by understanding the roles of drivers, companies, insurance, and legal resources. Ways of understanding driver accidents include third-party involvement, insurance considerations, legal support, documentation, and prevention techniques.
