Atlanta’s rideshare industry has expanded rapidly in recent years. While convenient, the increased presence of rideshare vehicles has also led to more accidents involving both passengers and third parties. Determining liability in an Uber or Lyft accident can be complicated because multiple parties may share responsibility. Our Atlanta auto accident law firm helps accident victims understand their valuable legal rights when injured in a rideshare accident while pursuing maximum compensation on their behalf.
Georgia law requires rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft to carry significant insurance coverage, but this coverage only applies under specific circumstances. Liability can shift between the rideshare driver, the rideshare company, and other drivers involved in the accident.
To hold the correct party accountable, we examine when the driver was actively working and whether the rideshare app was in use at the time of the crash. Understanding how Georgia statutes apply to rideshare liability is critical to securing full compensation after an accident.
Georgia law requires specific insurance coverage for rideshare companies under O.C.G.A. § 33-1-24. This law requires Uber and Lyft to provide insurance coverage based on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident. Liability coverage varies depending on whether the driver was logged into the app or actively transporting a passenger.
If the rideshare driver was not logged into the app, their personal auto insurance would apply, making it critical to determine the driver’s status at the time of the crash.
Liability in an Uber or Lyft accident can involve multiple parties depending on the circumstances of the collision:
Victims of rideshare accidents have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Georgia personal injury law, under O.C.G.A. § 51-1-6, allows injured parties to seek damages when another party’s negligence causes harm. This includes both passengers and drivers involved in the accident.
Filing a personal injury claim involves proving negligence, which requires demonstrating:
If you are injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, seek immediate medical attention to ensure your injuries are documented. Notify the police and obtain a copy of the accident report. Collect evidence, including photos, witness contact information, and details of the rideshare driver’s app status at the time of the crash. Then, contact an Atlanta auto accident attorney to evaluate your case and protect your right to compensation.
The rideshare company’s insurance coverage typically applies if the driver was actively working during the accident. If the driver was transporting a passenger, Uber and Lyft provide up to $1 million in liability coverage, which can help cover medical expenses. If the driver was not logged into the app, their personal insurance policy would be the primary source of coverage.
Suing Uber or Lyft directly can be challenging because their drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees. However, rideshare companies are required by Georgia law to provide substantial insurance coverage. While direct lawsuits against Uber or Lyft are rare, their insurance coverage often applies when the driver is actively working.
If another driver caused the accident while you were in an Uber or Lyft, their insurance policy would be the primary source of compensation. However, if the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient, the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply, providing additional protection for your injuries and damages.
Proving liability in a rideshare accident requires demonstrating that another party’s negligence caused your injuries. This process involves gathering evidence, including police reports, witness statements, app activity logs, and medical records. Our auto accident attorney can help you identify the responsible parties and build a strong case for compensation under Georgia personal injury laws.
At Shani O. Brooks P.C., we are committed to protecting the rights of individuals injured in Uber and Lyft accidents throughout Atlanta and the State of Georgia. Our team understands the complexities of rideshare liability and will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Contact our Atlanta rideshare accident attorney at Shani O. Brooks P.C. Attorneys at Law by calling 404-920-4736 to receive your free consultation. We represent clients from our Atlanta office and serve individuals throughout the State of Georgia. Let us help you secure the compensation you need while protecting your rights.