What Happens if My Uber Driver Gets a DWI in St. Louis?

Riding with a rideshare service like Uber is usually seen as a safe and reliable way to get around, especially if you’re avoiding driving under the influence yourself. But what if your Uber driver gets pulled over and is charged with a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)? Many passengers aren’t sure what to expect in this kind of situation. If you’re ever caught in a car during an Uber DWI stop, knowing your rights and understanding what might happen next is important for your safety and peace of mind.

Can Uber Drivers Really Get DWIs?

Yes, they can. Even though Uber conducts background checks and driver screenings, they cannot guarantee a driver’s behavior at every moment. If an Uber driver is pulled over and found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while carrying a passenger, it’s a serious offense under Missouri law.

In St. Louis, a DWI is a criminal offense. For rideshare drivers, the consequences can be even more severe, including immediate deactivation from the Uber platform, criminal charges, fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. But what does all this mean for you as a passenger?

What Happens During the Traffic Stop?

If an Uber driver is suspected of driving under the influence, a police officer may stop the vehicle. As a passenger, this can be alarming. The officer will typically speak with the driver, perform a field sobriety test, and possibly request a breathalyzer. If the officer believes the driver is impaired, they may arrest them on the spot.

In such cases, you may be asked to step out of the vehicle while the stop is handled. Depending on the location and time of day, you might have to arrange for another ride or wait for someone to pick you up. It's important to stay calm and cooperative. Law enforcement’s priority is safety—for you, for the public, and for themselves.

Are You Legally Involved or At Risk?

As a passenger, you are generally not considered legally responsible for the actions of your Uber driver. If they are charged with a DWI, the charges apply solely to the driver. However, if you are in possession of alcohol or drugs, or behaving disorderly, you may also be questioned or investigated separately. But under normal conditions, you are not at legal risk simply for being in the vehicle.

It’s worth noting that Missouri law defines impairment as a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers (including rideshare drivers), lower BAC thresholds may apply depending on circumstances. In any case, a Uber DWI can quickly escalate into a serious matter, affecting not only the driver’s future but also your immediate safety and travel plans.

What Should You Do as a Passenger?

If you suspect your Uber driver might be impaired, you have every right to end the ride. Politely ask to stop the trip, exit the vehicle when it's safe, and report the issue through the Uber app immediately. Safety comes first.

But if the driver is pulled over before you have a chance to act, here’s what you should do:

• Stay calm and quiet while the officer conducts their checks.

• Follow any instructions from law enforcement.

• If asked to leave the car, do so respectfully and move to a safe location.

• Contact a friend, family member, or another rideshare for help getting home.

• Report the incident to Uber as soon as you can through the app’s safety feature.
  
  

Uber takes reports of impaired driving very seriously. Once you report the driver, they will likely be suspended from the app while Uber investigates.

What About Refunds or Compensation?

If your trip is cut short or ends abruptly due to a DWI arrest, you can request a refund through the Uber app. While Uber does not have a set policy for DWI-related refunds, many users report receiving full or partial compensation when they explain what happened.

Uber may also offer a voucher or ride credit, especially in cases where the situation caused inconvenience or distress. You’ll usually receive follow-up communication from their support team.

Could You Be Called as a Witness?

In some cases, yes. If charges are filed against the driver and you were the passenger during the incident, law enforcement or prosecutors may contact you for a statement. You are not required to testify, but you may be asked about the driver’s behavior or anything you witnessed. This depends on how the case progresses and whether your testimony is relevant.

Still, most Uber DWI cases are handled without needing the passenger’s active involvement. If you are contacted, it’s usually just to confirm basic facts.

How Can You Stay Safe?

Rideshare safety begins with awareness. Here are a few simple steps to protect yourself:

• Always check the driver’s rating and reviews before entering the car.

• If the driver appears impaired, cancel the trip and request a new one.

• Use the “Share My Trip” feature in the Uber app to let a friend track your ride.

• Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
  
  

Uber also offers a 24/7 critical safety line and emergency button in the app that connects directly to 911, should you ever feel in danger.

Final Thoughts

Being in an Uber when your driver gets a DWI is stressful and unsettling. Thankfully, as a passenger, you are not at legal risk in most cases. Your priority should be getting to safety, reporting the issue to Uber, and cooperating with authorities if needed. While Uber aims to prevent such events, no system is perfect.

If it happens to you, remember: your voice matters. Reporting impaired driving helps keep the community safe and holds drivers accountable for their choices. By staying calm and informed, you can handle the situation responsibly and reduce further risk. Get in touch with the professionals at Rose Legal Services for more info!