Our Atlanta Uber & Lyft collision attorneys know that despite company policies and checks, individual rideshare drivers’ responsibility and behavior play a critical role in operating their vehicles.
The trust in rideshare drivers to be sober is rooted in the comprehensive and multi-layered approach taken by rideshare companies to ensure safety. This includes strict policies, rigorous background checks, technological safeguards, passenger reporting mechanisms, and the severe legal and professional consequences of impaired driving. These measures collectively create an environment where drivers are highly incentivized to remain sober and maintain high standards of conduct, thereby ensuring the safety and trust of passengers.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always true. Rideshare drivers are just as likely to be distracted, speed, disobey traffic signs and signals, or drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol as any other driver on our Georgia roads.
If you are injured in a crash because your rideshare driver was impaired, there are several steps you can take to protect your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries.
What Steps Should I Take After Being Injured as a Passenger in a Georgia Rideshare Collision?
The first step you should take as a passenger who is injured in a crash caused by an impaired rideshare driver is to ensure you and others involved are safe, call 911 to report the collision and request medical assistance.
Next:
- Ensure the police arrive at the scene, file a report, and mention the rideshare driver’s suspected impairment.
- Report the crash to the rideshare company, whether Uber or Lyft, through their app or customer service hotline.
- Take pictures and videos of the crash scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries.
- Take screenshots of where you are on your trip when the crash occurs, including the driver’s name, vehicle information, and other details if this information is removed from the rideshare app after the crash.
- Collect contact information and statements from any witnesses.
- Seek medical attention immediately after leaving the crash site.
- Keep detailed records of your medical treatments and expenses.
- Save all communication with the rideshare company, insurance companies, and medical providers.
Once you can, contact our skilled Uber and Lyft collision and injury attorneys in Atlanta to review your case so we can determine who is liable for the crash and which insurance policies to pursue for your damages.
Our Atlanta Rideshare Collision Attorneys Will Handle All Legal and Insurance Considerations
Getting hurt as a passenger in a rideshare vehicle collision makes one thing clear: You were not liable for the crash. However, the rideshare driver’s impairment is critical to establishing liability. The police report and any criminal charges against the driver—including a DUI or other reckless driving charges—although separate from your civil claim, may play a crucial role in determining liability.
Most rideshare companies offer liability coverage up to $1 million for collisions while the driver carries passengers.
Our rideshare crash attorneys will negotiate with the company’s insurance and other relevant insurers for a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, we may file a lawsuit to pursue compensation through the court.
contact our skilled Atlanta personal injury lawyers and support team at Ashby Thelen Lowry at (404) 777-7771 to schedule a free consultation. This initial step will ensure your rights are protected and enable you to make informed decisions about the direction of your claim.