Can You Sue Uber for a Car Accident in Georgia?

If you’re injured in an Uber accident in Georgia, you would likely sue the at-fault driver, not Uber directly. However, if the driver was en route to a fare or had a passenger in the car at the time, Uber’s insurance policy likely provides coverage, rather than the driver’s insurance. 

Rideshare accidents can be complicated, but you don’t have to sort out the aftermath alone. Instead, you can get legal guidance to help you pursue full and fair compensation. An experienced car accident lawyer at R. Alan Cleveland, LLC, can explain the insurance available to you and review your options.

How Does Uber’s Insurance Coverage Work?

Uber provides different levels of insurance coverage depending on the driver’s activity at the time of the accident. The driver’s app status controls which policy applies. Uber divides coverage into three distinct periods:

• Driver app off – When the driver is using their vehicle for personal reasons, Uber provides no coverage. The driver’s personal auto insurance liability coverage applies.
• Driver app on, but no ride is accepted – Uber provides limited liability coverage of $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
• Ride accepted or passenger in vehicle – Uber provides up to $1 million in liability coverage. Coverage includes protection for uninsured and underinsured motorist losses. Contingent collision coverage may also apply.

These distinctions determine whether a rideshare accident victim can recover compensation for their injuries. When you work with a knowledgeable Georgia car accident attorney at R. Alan Cleveland, LLC, we can identify the applicable policy and pursue the correct claim in your case.

Who Do You Sue If Your Uber Hits Another Car?

When your Uber driver causes an accident, you could sue the rideshare driver directly. Any compensation would likely be covered by Uber’s insurance coverage in effect during the ride.

Georgia law permits injured passengers to seek compensation from negligent drivers, including independent contractors such as Uber drivers. Because Uber drivers operate under the company’s platform during active trips, Uber’s commercial insurance policy typically provides coverage for passenger injuries.

If your Uber driver caused the crash with you in the vehicle, Uber’s $1 million liability policy generally applies. As a passenger, you do not need to prove fault between drivers to file a claim. You need to show only that someone else’s negligence caused your injuries. Even if another driver shares partial responsibility, Uber’s coverage may still apply.

Who Do You Sue If Another Driver Hits Your Uber?

Many Uber accidents involve negligent third-party drivers. When another driver causes the crash, you typically pursue a claim against that driver’s insurance policy first.

However, problems can arise when the at-fault driver lacks insurance or carries inadequate coverage. When that happens, Uber’s uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may then step in and provide compensation.

Depending on the circumstances of the collision, potential sources of compensation after a crash with an Uber driver include:

• The at-fault driver’s liability insurance
• Uber’s uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage
• Your own auto insurance policy
• Multiple policies through coordinated claims.

Recovering compensation requires compliance with strict deadlines and the provision of documentation. Having skilled legal guidance can make a major difference in your stress levels and your ability to pursue maximum compensation.

What Should You Do If You Are Involved in an Uber Accident?

Your actions following an Uber accident can affect your claim. Early mistakes can weaken evidence or limit your recovery options. To protect your safety and your legal rights, you should try to take the following steps:

• Call 911 right away – Contact the police and report the accident. The responding officer will create an accident report that your attorney can use to investigate your case and establish your accident claim.
• Seek prompt medical attention – Not all car accident injuries are visible, including traumatic brain injury (TBI) and internal organ damage. See a healthcare provider immediately and follow your treatment plan.
• Take photos and videos – Document the accident scene by capturing vehicle damage, vehicle positions, accident debris, skid marks, traffic signs and signals, road and weather conditions, and visible injuries.
• Report the crash to Uber – Use the app to notify Uber of the accident. Avoid giving a recorded statement without first seeking legal advice.
• Contact a lawyer – A skilled car accident attorney at R. Alan Cleveland, LLC, can protect your rights and help you avoid critical errors.

What Damages Can You Recover After a Georgia Uber Accident?

Georgia law permits accident victims to recover compensation that reflects financial damages and personal injuries. Your attorney will likely seek compensation for the following on your behalf:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members.

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts by disputing liability or downplaying injuries. A strong legal strategy can challenge these tactics and protect your rights.

Is There a Time Limit for Filing a Georgia Uber Accident Claim?

Georgia law imposes strict deadlines on personal injury lawsuits. You typically have two years from the date of your injuries to file. Missing this deadline may permanently bar you from recovering compensation.

Two years may seem like a long time, but it will pass quickly, and the sooner you pursue your claim, the stronger your case can be. Remember that evidence can be lost or destroyed, witness memories can fade, and insurers will employ stalling tactics to delay your payout. Contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Contact a Georgia Uber Accident Lawyer

If you’ve suffered injuries in a car accident involving an Uber driver, you may be feeling overwhelmed and uncertain of what to do next. The experienced Georgia personal injury attorneys at R. Alan Cleveland, LLC, stand ready to guide you through the legal process and help you seek the financial stability you deserve through an Uber accident lawsuit.

Our team has recovered more than $150 million for clients throughout Georgia, reflecting our commitment to compassionate legal services and our unwavering dedication to justice. Contact us today for your free consultation.  

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