Rideshare Laws in Georgia
Georgia regulates rideshare companies under the “Transportation Network Company” (TNC) laws. These laws, codified in Georgia House Bill 190, outline requirements for driver background checks, vehicle inspections, and insurance coverage.
Under Georgia law:
- Uber and Lyft drivers are classified as independent contractors, not employees.
- TNCs must maintain specific levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s status at the time of the crash.
- Drivers must maintain a clean driving history and comply with background checks to remain eligible for the platform.
Additionally, rideshare companies are required to maintain digital records of trips and driver statuses. These records often become essential evidence when determining liability after an accident.
Causes of Rideshare Accidents
Rideshare accidents often result from a confluence of factors, such as:
- Driver inattention: Distractions, such as cell phone use or attending to passengers, can lead to devastating accidents.
- Fatigue: Drivers working long hours, especially at night, may become drowsy and less alert, increasing the risk of a collision.
- Speeding: In a rush to pick up or drop off passengers, drivers may exceed speed limits, jeopardizing the safety of everyone on the road.
- Aggressive driving: Tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and other reckless behaviors can create dangerous situations.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: Issues with brakes, tires, or other critical systems can contribute to accidents.
- Adverse weather conditions: Rain, fog, or icy roads can increase the likelihood of an accident, especially when drivers fail to adjust their speed and caution.
- Inexperience with local traffic laws: Unfamiliarity with local traffic patterns and regulations can lead to confusion and errors.
Each of these factors necessitates a careful investigation to determine liability and identify all potential sources of compensation.
Possible Liable Parties in a Rideshare Accident
- Rideshare drivers: Often, drivers are responsible due to negligent behavior such as distracted driving, speeding, or fatigue. Evaluating their actions during the accident is a primary step in establishing liability.
- Rideshare companies: Companies like Uber and Lyft can be held accountable depending on the driver's status at the time of the accident. If the driver was logged into the app or carrying passengers, the rideshare company's insurance policies may be applicable.
- Third-party drivers: Other motorists involved in the collision can also share responsibility. This includes cases where another driver's reckless or illegal actions contributed to the incident.
- Vehicle manufacturers: In cases where a defect in a rideshare vehicle or third-party car contributed to the accident, pursuing liability against the manufacturer or maintenance provider is a consideration.
- Municipal entities: Poorly maintained roads or traffic signal failures attributable to municipal negligence can also be factors in certain accidents.
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If you are hesitating to call us for help, take a look at our recent case results.
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$100,000 $100k for Woman Involved in Rear-End Collision With Neck Injury
For Woman Involved in Rear-End Collision With Neck Injury
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$497,000 $497k Verdict at Trial for an Individual Who Was Struck by a Drunk Driver
Verdict at Trial for an Individual Who Was Struck by a Drunk Driver
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$235,000 $235k for Officer Who Was Struck While Directing Traffic
For Officer Who Was Struck While Directing Traffic
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$360,000 $360k for Man Injured in a Motorcycle Accident
Man Injured in a Motorcycle Accident
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$100,000 $100k Policy Limit Settlement for Client Involved in Car Accident With Shoulder Injuries
Policy Limit Settlement for Client Involved in Car Accident With Shoulder Injuries
Uber & Lyft Accident Claims FAQs
What should I do after a rideshare accident in Athens?
Immediately after an accident involving an Uber or Lyft vehicle, call 911 and seek medical attention if needed. Collect contact information from all parties, take photos of the scene, and request the rideshare driver’s insurance and app status. Report the crash to Uber or Lyft via their app. Finally, contact an Athens rideshare accident lawyer to protect your rights.
Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
It is extremely difficult to sue Uber or Lyft directly due to their use of independent contractors. However, their insurance policies often provide substantial compensation. In rare cases involving gross negligence or improper hiring practices, you may be able to pursue a claim against the company itself.
What types of compensation can I recover?
Victims of rideshare accidents may be eligible to recover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Future medical treatment and loss of earning capacity
If the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness (e.g., driving under the influence), punitive damages may also be awarded.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. It's important to begin the legal process as soon as possible to preserve evidence and improve your chances of a successful outcome.
What if I was partially at fault?
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you were less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you may not recover anything.
Why Choose Van Sant Law as Your Athens Rideshare Accident Lawyer?
At Van Sant Law, we understand how rideshare companies operate and how to go toe-to-toe with their powerful insurance providers. Our legal team has extensive experience investigating Uber and Lyft accidents, analyzing app data, reviewing insurance policies, and negotiating fair settlements.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalized attention and compassionate representation
- Aggressive negotiation and trial advocacy
- No upfront fees – we only get paid if you win
- Local experience with Athens courts and Georgia law
Whether you were injured as a rideshare passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, we’re here to stand by your side and secure the justice you deserve.
Don't waste another moment—seek the compensation you deserve with a rideshare accident attorney in Athens at Van Sant Law. Call or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Determining Liability in an Uber or Lyft Accident
Determining liability in a rideshare accident depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the crash. The rideshare driver’s activity will determine which insurance policy—personal or company-backed—applies.
Driver is Logged Off the App
If the Uber or Lyft driver is not logged into the app, they are considered to be using their vehicle for personal use. In this case, the driver’s personal auto insurance policy is the only coverage available.
Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft do not provide any insurance coverage when the driver is not using the app, even if they drive for the platform regularly.
Driver is Logged On But Has Not Accepted a Ride Request
When the driver is logged into the app and waiting for a ride request, the rideshare company provides contingent liability coverage:
- $50,000 per person for bodily injury
- $100,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $25,000 per accident for property damage
This coverage only applies if the driver’s personal insurance denies the claim or is insufficient. It's considered secondary coverage.
Driver Has Accepted a Ride or is Transporting a Passenger
Once the driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up a passenger or is actively transporting them, the rideshare company provides primary insurance coverage, which includes:
- $1 million in liability coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Contingent comprehensive and collision coverage (if the driver has such coverage on their personal policy)
This phase offers the highest level of protection for injured parties and is most favorable for pursuing compensation.
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