Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have transformed how we travel in Atlanta—but what happens if you’re injured while using one? Whether you were a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, rideshare accidents raise complex legal questions. If you’re wondering what your next step should be, you’re not alone.

Rideshare Accidents Are on the Rise

As Uber and Lyft usage increases in metro Atlanta, so do the number of traffic accidents involving their drivers. Unlike traditional car accidents, rideshare crashes often involve overlapping insurance policies, multiple parties, and unclear liability. Injuries can range from minor whiplash to life-altering trauma—and victims often don’t know where to turn for help.

Common Causes of Rideshare Accidents

• Distracted driving (especially app use or GPS navigation)
• Fatigue from long driving hours
• Speeding or aggressive driving
• Failure to yield or follow traffic signals
• Inadequate vehicle maintenance

Who Can Be Held Liable?

Georgia law allows injury victims to pursue compensation from those responsible—but in rideshare cases, figuring out who’s responsible isn’t always simple. Depending on the situation, liable parties may include:

• The rideshare driver (if negligent)
• Another motorist involved in the crash
• Uber or Lyft’s insurance policy
• The rideshare company itself (in rare cases)

Note: Uber and Lyft carry up to $1 million in liability insurance—but the coverage amount depends on what the driver was doing at the time of the accident.

What to Do Immediately After a Rideshare Accident

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request emergency medical help if needed.
2. Document the scene: Take photos, gather witness info, and screenshot the ride in the app.
3. Seek medical attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated. This creates a medical record for your claim.
4. Don’t talk to insurance alone: Their goal is to minimize payouts. Get legal guidance first.
5. Contact a rideshare accident lawyer in Atlanta: An experienced attorney can determine liability, manage claims, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Rideshare Insurance in Georgia

In Georgia, Uber and Lyft drivers are required to carry rideshare-specific coverage during different phases of their work:

• App Off: Only the driver’s personal insurance applies.
• App On, No Passenger: Limited liability coverage applies (typically $50,000 per person).
• Passenger En Route or Onboard: Up to $1 million in liability coverage from Uber/Lyft applies.

For more details, visit the Georgia rideshare insurance statute.

Why You Need a Rideshare Accident Lawyer in Atlanta

Insurance companies often delay or deny claims, especially when multiple policies are involved. A skilled Atlanta rideshare accident attorney can:

• Investigate the accident thoroughly
• Identify all liable parties
• Handle complex insurance negotiations
• Maximize your settlement or take your case to trial if necessary

How Much Compensation Can You Receive?

Your claim may include compensation for:

• Medical bills and future treatment
• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Vehicle damage (if applicable)
• Wrongful death damages (in fatal crashes)

Don’t Delay—Georgia Has a Time Limit

Georgia law imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. That means you must file your claim within two years of the accident—or risk losing your right to compensation. Don’t wait to get help.

Contact an Atlanta Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Atlanta, McManes Law is here to help. We’ve represented countless accident victims throughout Georgia and know how to fight back against big insurance companies. Your consultation is free—and you don’t pay unless we win your case.

Call (678) 892-7157 or schedule your free consultation today.

Related Articles

• What to Do After a Slip and Fall Accident in Atlanta
• Who’s Liable for an Injury on Private Property in Georgia?
• 10 Mistakes That Can Wreck Your Georgia Workers’ Comp Case

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the rideshare driver was not logged into the app?

Then typically only the driver’s personal auto insurance applies; the rideshare company’s coverage is often limited or non‑applicable.

Do I have to pay the lawyer up front?

No — McManes Law works on a contingency basis, so you only pay if they recover compensation for your case.

Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?

It’s rare to sue Uber or Lyft directly unless there’s evidence of corporate negligence. Most claims go through insurance, but your lawyer can help evaluate the best path.