Uber/Lyft Accident Lawyer in Atlanta, Georgia
Just as in other states across the country, Georgia residents often rely on Uber, Lyft, and other ridesharing companies to get to and from their destinations. Uber/Lyft accidents have increased in recent years as more people use these transportation network companies (TNCs). Rideshare companies are popular for their convenience and have become a big competitor for taxi companies, largely due to the ease of which to use their apps. When an accident occurs while being transported by Uber or Lyft, who is liable for any injuries or losses that result?
Those with questions regarding accidents with public or private transportation companies may want to visit with an Atlanta Uber & Lyft accident lawyer at Hall & Lampros, LLP by calling 404-876-8100. Learn more about our firm and read some of our testimonials to help make a decision to hire the best lawyer for your matter.
Common Causes of Uber/Lyft Accidents
Just as with other car accidents, there are some common causes of accidents that occur among rideshare companies such as Uber and Lyft. According to a recent study from the University of Chicago and Rice University, over the past decade the increase in ridesharing services has contributed to a rise in traffic deaths by approximately 1,100 each year. Common causes of Uber/Lyft accidents include:
- Driver Fatigue: Drivers who work for these companies often use several accounts or work other jobs and drive for Uber or Lyft in their free time to make extra money. This can result in driver fatigue when drivers fail to get adequate sleep and rest.
- Distractions: All drivers must keep their total attention on the road. Unfortunately, Uber and Lyft drivers are often distracted by passengers, eating, and frequently engaging with ridesharing apps and their phones as they find passengers, pick up passengers, and figure out where they are going.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: More than 9,000 people are killed each year due to speeding according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and drivers for ridesharing services speed during approximately 30% of trips. Tailgating, changing lanes abruptly, and ignoring traffic signals also increase the risk of an accident.
- Inexperience: In Georgia, a person must be 18 years old or older to drive for Uber and other ridesharing companies. Considering those of a young age have little experience compared to most taxi drivers, the likelihood of an accident increases significantly.
Who Is Responsible in Ridesharing Accidents?
When someone is injured in an accident while being transported by a driver for Uber or Lyft, it can be difficult to determine who is liable. Uber and Lyft claim they are software companies and are not private transport or taxi companies. If a driver does not have the Uber or Lyft app on and active while operating their vehicle, these companies claim no responsibility. Both companies provide third-party liability insurance coverage in certain circumstances, however an Uber or Lyft accident may be treated like any other car accident in some cases, with the driver being responsible. If another motorist (not the Uber or Lyft driver) is at fault in the accident, that person is liable. Hall & Lampros, LLP is available to provide further legal guidance in this area.
What to Do When Involved in a Ridesharing Accident
It can be difficult to know what steps to take in the moment when someone is involved in an Uber/Lyft accident. The most important steps you should take when possible include:
- Determine if an injury occurred, and call 911 if there is an injury that requires medical attention
- Call police, who will write up a police report. Police reports are critical when determining fault in all car accidents
- Take photos of the accident scene when it is safe to do so and include details such as road conditions, skid marks, vehicle damage, etc.
- Obtain names and contact information from witnesses, as they often leave prior to the arrival of police
- Make notes about any details you remember prior to the collision, other drivers involved in the accident (name, contact information) and the Uber or Lyft driver’s name
- Schedule a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney
The more information someone can capture at the time of an accident, the easier it will be to determine who is at fault. Those injured in Uber/Lyft accidents may be eligible for compensation of costs including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future income, and more. It’s critical to contact an Uber / Lyft accident lawyer with Hall & Lampros in Atlanta today to explore your options and get your important questions answered.
Consider Scheduling a Visit with Hall & Lampros, LLP
Uber/Lyft accidents are common and occur just like any other car accident. Many people in Georgia rely on these ridesharing services not only because they are convenient, but an environmentally friendly way to get from one place to another. If you have been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident you may want to consider reaching out to Hall & Lampros, LLP for legal guidance and support at 404-876-8100.
Chris has successfully represented numerous clients in catastrophic personal injury, employment law matters, class action, consumer protection, business tort, and legislative matters involving multi-million-dollar damages.