Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a staple of transportation in Atlanta, Alpharetta, and the surrounding metro areas. While they offer convenience, they also add a layer of complexity to our roadways. When you step into a rideshare vehicle, you trust that your driver is safe and that the company has you covered. Unfortunately, accidents happen frequently, and navigating the aftermath of a rideshare crash is significantly more complicated than a standard car accident claim.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a rideshare accident—whether as a passenger, a driver of another car, or a pedestrian—understanding the unique insurance laws in Georgia is critical to recovering the compensation you deserve.
Unlike a typical car accident where the at-fault driver’s personal insurance policy is usually the primary source of recovery, Uber and Lyft accidents involve a tiered insurance structure. The amount of coverage available to you depends entirely on the “status” of the rideshare driver at the moment of the crash. Ask yourself these questions:
- Was The App is Off. If the driver is not logged into the Uber or Lyft app, they are considered a private citizen. Any accident they cause falls under their personal auto insurance policy. However, many personal policies have exclusions for commercial use, which can lead to denied claims.
- Was The App is On, Waiting for a Ride. If the driver is logged in but has not yet accepted a ride request, the rideshare company provides limited liability coverage. This typically includes $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. This applies if the driver’s personal insurance denies coverage.
- Was The Ride Accepted or Passenger in Vehicle. This is when coverage is highest. Once a driver accepts a ride or has a passenger in the car, Uber and Lyft provide a $1 million liability insurance policy. This policy covers damages if the rideshare driver is at fault. It also typically includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, protecting you if a third-party driver causes the crash.
While the $1 million policy sounds generous, actually accessing it is a battle. Insurance companies representing rideshare giants are notorious for trying to minimize payouts. They may argue that the driver was an independent contractor to avoid liability, or they may dispute which “period” the driver was in to lower the coverage limit.
Furthermore, if you are a passenger injured by another driver (not your Uber/Lyft driver), you may need to file claims against multiple policies: the at-fault driver’s insurance, your own auto insurance, and the rideshare company’s underinsured motorist policy.
Contact Ponton Law Today
At Ponton Law, we understand the nuances of Georgia’s rideshare laws. We know how to obtain electronic ride logs to prove the driver’s status and how to negotiate with aggressive corporate insurers. Don’t handle this complex web of claims alone. Call us today at (404) 445-1403 for a free consultation. Remember, we don’t get paid unless we win for you.