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770-626-7895Ridesharing is a popular form of transportation in Athens. Many people use Uber and Lyft to get around the region. Unfortunately, accidents happen. Determining who can be held legally liable for rideshare accidents in Georgia can be complicated. The short answer is “it depends”—liability is based on fault. However, Uber/Lyft passengers must be covered by a commercial insurance policy as a matter of state law. Our Athens Uber & Lyft accident lawyer provides an overview of liability for ridesharing crashes in Georgia.
Georgia is a Fault-Based Motor Vehicle Accident State
In Georgia, motor vehicle accident liability is based on fault. Ridesharing crashes are no exception to the rule. The party—driver or otherwise—who is found to be at fault for causing a collision can be held responsible for the resulting damages.
Fault is based on negligence. Broadly speaking, negligence is a legal term used to describe a situation where a person fails to exercise a reasonable standard of care in a manner that causes harm to another party. It involves actions or inactions that deviate from what a reasonable person would do under similar circumstances. Some of the most common examples of negligence that can contribute to ridesharing accidents include:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Following too closely
- Intoxicated driving
- Vehicle maintenance failures
- Uber/Lyft hiring unsafe drivers
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 51-11-7), a modified comparative negligence standard applies. Each party to a crash is legally liable for their proportionate share of the blame for a collision. For example, imagine you are driving through an intersection in Athens. You are involved in a crash with an Uber. You sustained $25,000 in total damages in the crash.
However, you were deemed 20 percent liable for the accident due to failure to signal. Under Georgia law, you would be liable for 20 percent of your damages ($5,000). You could still pursue compensation for the remaining 80 percent ($20,000).
Note: There is a 50 percent bar on recovery in Georgia. If you are found liable for 50 percent or more for your crash, you will be prohibited from recovering any compensation under Georgia’s modified comparative negligence law.
Understanding Uber Liability (Fault for Rideshare Accidents in Georgia)
Uber/Lyft Passenger Accidents
Who is liable for a crash if you are hurt while a passenger in an Uber or Lyft? While the answer depends on who caused the collision, you are also protected by the ridesharing company’s commercial insurance liability policy. In Georgia, Uber and Lyft must provide commercial coverage that takes effect from the minute a passenger ride is accepted. Indeed, the policy is active when the driver is logged into the app and transporting a passenger. If another driver is at fault, their insurance should cover your damages. However, if that driver’s insurance is insufficient or denies the claim, Uber or Lyft’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage will likely apply. As a passenger hurt in an Uber or Lyft, make sure you report the collision to the ridesharing company. An experienced Athens, GA ridesharing accident lawyer can help you navigate a legal claim.
Uber/Lyft Other Accidents
For pedestrians, cyclists, or occupants of other vehicles involved in accidents with Uber or Lyft drivers, liability depends on the driver’s status and fault. If the rideshare driver is at fault and was logged into the app, Uber or Lyft’s insurance may provide coverage. Here is an overview of how insurance coverage works in different situations:
- Driver on a Trip: If the driver is en route to pick up a passenger or transporting one, the ridesharing company’s commercial insurance policy must apply.
- Driver Available but No Passenger: When the driver is waiting for a ride request, the ridesharing company contingent policy may apply.
- Driver Offline: If the driver is not logged into the app, only their personal auto insurance is all that applies.
If another party is at fault, their insurance should cover the damages. However, if you are deemed legally responsible for the crash, you could be held liable. As noted, Georgia is a modified comparative negligence state. Even if you are partially at fault for a crash, it could reduce your financial recovery.
Every Ridesharing Crash Requires a Thorough Investigation
Every Uber/Lyft crash should be carefully investigated by an experienced attorney. It is imperative that you have access to all of the evidence that you need to prove fault and establish liability. Our Athens, GA ridesharing accident lawyer is prepared to conduct a proactive, detail-focused investigation of the crash. Some key forms of evidence in ridesharing crashes include:
- Photographs: Pictures are key evidence. Any visual images capturing the accident scene, vehicle damage, and other factors can help to prove what happened.
- Witness Statements: Testimonies from bystanders or other drivers who observed the Uber/Lyft crash can provide an independent account.
- Your Personal Account: A detailed narration of your own experience during the crash is relevant evidence—it is especially compelling if recorded shortly after the crash.
- Police Report: All ridesharing accidents should be reported to law enforcement. The police report is a key form of evidence. Make sure that you request a copy of the report.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for a Ridesharing Crash in Athens
Were you injured in any type of ridesharing collision in Athens, Clarke County, or elsewhere in Georgia? You have the right to seek compensation for the full value of your damages. A settlement can include financial support for both economic losses and non-economic losses. With that being said, the big ridesharing companies (Uber and Lyft) and their commercial insurance carriers fight tirelessly to pay out as little as possible in claims. Our Athens ridesharing accident lawyers are ready to help you seek the maximum compensation. You may be entitled to recover for:
- Property damage, such as vehicle repairs
- Ambulance costs and emergency medical treatment
- Hospital bills and other health care expenses
- Prescription medications and medical equipment
- Physical therapy and other rehabilitative care
- Loss of wages and loss of earning power
- Pain and suffering & mental anguish
- Long-term physical disability
- Wrongful death of a family member
Why Rely On The Larrison Law Firm for an Uber or Lyft Crash Claim
You do not have to take on a ridesharing accident claim alone. Uber, Lyft, individual drivers, and any other party whose negligence contributes to a crash must be held accountable. Brady M. Larrison is devoted to fighting for justice and the absolute maximum compensation for injured victims. With a proven history of successful case results, we put a strong emphasis on personalized representation.
Along with other things, our Athens Uber/Lyft crash lawyer is prepared to:
- Hear what you have to say and answer your legal questions
- Investigate your ridesharing crash in Athens—gathering all relevant evidence
- Handle your settlement negotiations with Uber/Lyft and its insurers
- Develop a comprehensive strategy to maximize your financial benefits
Contact Our Uber Accident Lawyer Athens Today
At The Larrison Law Firm, our Athens ridesharing accident attorney is standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. If you were hurt in an Uber crash or a Lyft crash, we can help. Give us a phone call now or connect with us online for a free, no-obligation case review. From our office in Athens, we represent ridesharing accident victims throughout the wider region.
