An injury during an Uber or Lyft ride can leave you wondering who will pay your medical bills and other costs. Georgia has specific rules that determine which policies may provide coverage and how fault affects a claim after a rideshare crash. Understanding these rules can make the claims process easier and help you identify possible sources of compensation.
Understanding rideshare insurance coverage levels
Rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft provide different levels of protection based on what the driver was doing when the collision happened.
When a rideshare driver has the app turned off and is not working, the driver’s personal auto insurance usually applies. However, many personal auto policies limit or exclude coverage for commercial driving unless the driver has a rideshare endorsement. This can create gaps in protection.
When the driver turns on the app and waits for a ride request, the company usually provides limited liability coverage.
The highest level of protection applies after the driver accepts a ride request or begins transporting a passenger. During this time, Uber and Lyft generally provide up to $1 million in third-party liability coverage, depending on the policy terms.
Which insurance pays for your injuries
The policy that covers your injuries depends on who caused the crash and the details of what happened. If another driver caused the crash while you were riding in an Uber or Lyft, that driver’s insurance may pay for your injuries first. If that coverage is not enough, the rideshare company’s uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may provide additional compensation, depending on the situation and policy details.
If the rideshare driver caused the crash, the company’s insurance generally covers injured passengers. Passengers usually do not control the vehicle, so they are rarely blamed for causing a crash.
How Georgia’s comparative negligence rule affects your claim
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence system. Your compensation may decrease if you share responsibility for the crash. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you generally cannot recover damages.
As a passenger, you are rarely assigned fault because you do not control how the driver operates the vehicle. If multiple drivers contributed to the collision, their share of responsibility may affect which insurance policies contribute to your recovery.
Steps to take after a rideshare accident
If you are injured in a rideshare crash in Georgia, pursue prompt medical treatment, even if your injuries seem minor. This can protect your health and create records of your injuries.
Report the crash through the rideshare app if possible. Uber and Lyft allow riders to report incidents through their apps, creating a record of what happened. Collect the names, insurance details and contact information of everyone involved. If witnesses saw the crash, ask for their contact information.
Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage and any visible injuries. Save copies of your medical records, bills and any messages with insurance companies. You may also want to speak with a personal injury attorney who handles Georgia rideshare claims. An attorney can identify which policies may provide coverage and guide you through the claims process.
Protecting your right to compensation
Rideshare crashes often involve multiple insurance policies and complicated coverage issues. As a passenger, you may have access to significant protection when the driver accepts your ride or transports you. Understanding Georgia’s fault rules and rideshare insurance policies can help you seek the compensation available for your injuries and losses.