The moments after a car accident are a blur of confusion, shock, and anxiety. When an accident involving a rideshare vehicle, such as Uber or Lyft, is added, an additional layer of complexity is introduced. Who is responsible? Which insurance company do you talk to? As a victim in St. Louis, you may feel lost and overwhelmed. The steps you take immediately following the crash are critical for protecting both your health and your legal right to compensation. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step path forward. At Missouri Injury Law Firm, our dedicated rideshare accident attorneys are here to give clarity and expert legal support when you need it most.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Health and Safety. Immediately, assess the situation for any immediate danger. Move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further collisions on busy St. Louis streets like I-64 or Kingshighway. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask severe conditions like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions. Call 911 immediately. Reporting the accident ensures that police and emergency medical services are dispatched. Paramedics can provide immediate care, and a police officer will create an official report of the incident, which is an invaluable piece of evidence for your claim.
Step 2: Document Everything at the Scene.
Once it is safe to do so, begin documenting the scene of the accident. Your smartphone is your most powerful tool at the moment. Take photos and videos from multiple angles, capturing the damage to all vehicles involved, their final resting positions, license plates, skid marks on the road, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. If there were witnesses, politely ask for their names and contact information. Their objective testimony can be crucial in establishing fault. Also, be sure to get the names, contact details, and insurance information from your rideshare driver and any other drivers involved. Remember to take a screenshot of your ride information within the Uber or Lyft app as proof you were on an active trip.
Step 3: Seek a Full Medical Evaluation.. Even if you decline an ambulance ride, you must see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident—ideally within 24 to 48 hours. Many serious injuries have delayed symptoms. A medical professional can diagnose hidden injuries and begin a treatment plan. From a legal perspective, this step is non-negotiable. A documented medical visit creates a direct, provable link between the accident and your injuries. Without this, an insurance company will argue that your injuries were caused by something else or are not as severe as you claim. Follow all medical advice, attend all follow-up appointments, and keep detailed records of every bill and report.
Step 4: Report the Accident, but Be Cautious.
You should report the accident to Uber or Lyft through their app. When you do so, stick to the objective facts: the date, time, location, and that an accident occurred. Do not apologize, speculate on who was at fault, or downplay your injuries. Shortly after, you will likely be contacted by an insurance adjuster representing the rideshare company or another party. It is best to politely decline to give a recorded statement until you have spoken with an attorney. These adjusters are trained to ask questions that can be used to devalue or deny your claim.
Step 5: Contact an Experienced Rideshare Accident Attorney in St. Louis.
This is the most critical step you can take to protect your rights. Rideshare accident claims are not like standard car accident cases. They involve multiple potential insurance policies and powerful corporate legal teams. An experienced rideshare accident attorney in St. Louis at Missouri Injury Law Firm understands this complex landscape. We will immediately work to preserve evidence, handle all communications with insurance companies, and determine which policies apply to your case. We can help you navigate your medical treatment and begin building a powerful claim to secure the full compensation you need to recover.
Navigating the aftermath of a rideshare accident is a daunting task, but you don't have to do it alone. By following these steps, you can protect your health and lay the groundwork for a successful injury claim. The legal complexities, however, require a professional advocate. Contact the Missouri Injury Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let our skilled team take the burden off your shoulders and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
