Athens Rideshare Accident Lawyer

Given that many locals and tourists rely on ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft to get around Athens, it’s no surprise that the number of ridesharing accidents has increased significantly in recent years. When rideshare drivers – and sometimes third-party drivers – violate the rules of the road or drive in a distracted or aggressive manner, serious collisions can occur.

If you suffered injuries in a recent rideshare accident, the legal team at Hall & Collins Injury & Accident Lawyers, LLC is ready to advocate for you. We can aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve while you focus your attention on recovering from your injuries.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled Athens rideshare accident attorney, please call us at (706) 351-6055 or contact us online right away.

How Much is an Athens Rideshare Accident Case Worth?

If you’ve been involved in a rideshare accident in Athens, Georgia, you may be wondering how much compensation you can expect to recover. The total amount you receive depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your pain and suffering, and the circumstances surrounding the accident.

In general, compensation for rideshare accidents can be divided into two main categories: economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages refer to the tangible financial losses you incur as a direct result of the accident. These include:

• Medical Expenses – This encompasses hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, medications, and any future medical treatment you may need. If your injuries require ongoing care, you can factor these future costs into your claim’s value.
• Lost income – If you had to miss work due to your injuries, you can recover lost income. This includes not only your salary but also any bonuses or benefits you may have lost during your recovery period.
• Property Damage – If your vehicle was damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for repair costs or the fair market value of your vehicle if it was totaled.

Non-economic damages are more subjective and cover the emotional and psychological effects of the accident. These can include:

• Pain and Suffering – This compensation reflects the physical pain and discomfort you experienced due to your injuries. It can also include the emotional distress you may have suffered.
• Loss of Life Enjoyment – If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, you can seek damages for this loss.
• Emotional Distress – This covers the psychological effects of the accident, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

At Hall & Collins Injury & Accident Lawyers, LLC, we can help you understand the full extent of your potential compensation and guide you through the claims process.

Where Do Rideshare Collisions Most Frequently Occur in Athens?

In Athens, Georgia, ridesharing vehicles are a popular mode of transportation, but they can also be involved in accidents. Here are some of the most frequent areas where rideshare accidents occur in Athens.

• Busy Intersections – Intersections with heavy traffic are hotspots for rideshare accidents. Locations like the intersection of Broad Street and Thomas Street often see many vehicles, making it a common site for collisions. Drivers may misjudge the timing of traffic lights or fail to yield, leading to severe crashes.
• Near College Campuses – With the presence of the University of Georgia, areas around campus – especially near College Avenue and East Campus Road – are frequently busy with students and rideshare vehicles. This high foot traffic can lead to accidents involving pedestrians and rideshare drivers.
• Downtown Athens – The downtown area, particularly around popular spots like the Classic Center and local bars and restaurants, attracts many rideshare users. The combination of narrow streets, parked cars, and pedestrian traffic increases the likelihood of accidents.
• Highway Entrances and Exits – Locations where rideshare drivers enter or exit highways, such as U.S. Highway 78 and Georgia Route 316, are also prone to accidents. The fast-paced nature of highway traffic can lead to sudden lane changes or merging accidents in these areas.
• Parking Lots – Rideshare drivers frequently pick up and drop off passengers in parking lots of shopping centers, such as the Athens Perimeter Center or local grocery stores. These areas can become crowded and chaotic, increasing the risk of fender benders and other collisions.
• Residential Areas – Many rideshare pickups also happen in neighborhoods. Narrow streets, parked cars, and children playing can make residential areas risky for rideshare drivers and their passengers.

Common Types of Rideshare Accidents in Athens

Rideshare accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to negligent behavior by either rideshare drivers or third-party drivers. Here are some common categories of rideshare accidents due to negligence:

• Distracted Driving – One of the leading causes of accidents is distracted driving. Rideshare drivers may become distracted with their smartphones while navigating the app or communicating with passengers. Similarly, third-party drivers may be using their phones or engaging in other distractions, leading to collisions.
• Speeding – Rideshare drivers often face pressure to reach destinations quickly to maintain high ratings or to pick up additional fares. This urgency can lead to speeding, which increases the likelihood of accidents. Third-party drivers may also speed, creating dangerous situations when they encounter rideshare vehicles.
• Running Red Lights – Both rideshare drivers and other motorists can neglect traffic signals, leading to serious accidents. Running red lights often results in T-bone collisions, which can cause significant injuries to passengers and drivers alike.
• Failure to Yield – Rideshare drivers may fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections or when merging into traffic. This negligence can result in accidents with other vehicles that have the legal right to proceed. Similarly, third-party drivers may not yield to rideshare vehicles, leading to dangerous situations.
• Improper Lane Changes – Rideshare drivers frequently change lanes to pick up or drop off passengers. If they do not signal or check their blind spots, they risk colliding with other vehicles. Third-party drivers can also contribute to these accidents by making sudden lane changes without exercising proper caution.
• Driving Under the Influence – Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a significant problem. If either a rideshare driver or a third-party driver is under the influence, their judgment, reaction time, and overall driving abilities are severely compromised, increasing the risk of a serious accident.
• Inexperienced Drivers – Inexperienced rideshare drivers may not be familiar with local traffic laws or the nuances of driving in busy areas. This lack of experience can lead to poor decision-making and ultimately result in accidents.

Most Common Injuries in an Athens Rideshare Accident

Victims of rideshare accidents in Athens, Georgia, can suffer a range of injuries, some of which may be serious and have long-lasting effects. Here are some of the most frequent injuries seen in rideshare collisions:

• Back Injuries – Rideshare accident victims often report injuries to the spine, including herniated discs or spinal fractures. These injuries can result in chronic pain and limited mobility and sometimes require surgery for treatment.
• Whiplash – This injury occurs when the victim’s head is suddenly thrown backward and forward, causing strain to ligaments and muscles in the neck and upper back regions. Whiplash can cause pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility in the neck, often requiring physical therapy for recovery.
• Soft Tissue Injuries – Injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, including strains and sprains, can occur during an accident. These injuries may lead to swelling, bruising, and pain, often requiring rest and rehabilitation for full recovery.
• Internal Injuries – In severe rideshare accidents, victims may suffer injuries to internal organs, leading to internal bleeding or other serious conditions. 
• Head Injuries – Victims may experience concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) due to the strong impact of the accident. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. Some head injuries may have long-term effects, requiring ongoing medical care.
• Broken Bones – Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or other bones are also common in rideshare accidents, especially during collisions where passengers may brace themselves for impact. Recovery from broken bones typically involves immobilization, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.
• Emotional Trauma – In addition to physical injuries, victims of rideshare accidents can experience emotional and psychological effects, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Counseling or therapy may be necessary to treat these conditions. 

Fighting the Insurance Company in an Athens Rideshare Accident Case

After a rideshare accident in Athens, Georgia, dealing with the insurance company can be a challenging and stressful process. However, having legal representation can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. At Hall & Collins Injury & Accident Lawyers, LLC, here’s how we can fight the insurance company on your behalf:

• Investigation of the Accident – We will thoroughly investigate the accident to gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records. This evidence helps establish liability and supports your claim.
• Negotiation – Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. We will negotiate aggressively to ensure that you receive a settlement that reflects your injuries, medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.
• Understanding Insurance Coverage – In a rideshare accident, multiple insurance policies may come into play. Rideshare drivers typically have their own personal auto insurance, but they may also be covered under the rideshare company’s insurance policy during active rideshare duties. In Georgia, the following types of insurance coverage may apply:
• Personal Auto Insurance – This covers the driver when they are not engaged in ridesharing. If the driver is at fault during this time, their personal policy may cover damages.
• Rideshare Insurance – When the rideshare app is on, the company usually provides coverage. This is typically divided into three periods:
• Period 1: The driver is online but has no passenger – The rideshare company may provide limited liability coverage during this time.
• Period 2: The driver has accepted a ride and is en route to pick up the passenger – Higher liability coverage is usually in effect.
• Period 3: The passenger is in the vehicle – This period offers the highest coverage limits for liability and injury.

By understanding these insurance options and working diligently on your behalf, we aim to secure the compensation you deserve after your rideshare accident in Athens.

Essential Steps to Take after an Athens Rideshare Accident 

After being involved in a rideshare accident in Athens, Georgia, it’s crucial to take some specific steps to protect your rights and ensure proper recovery.

• First, obtain a copy of the police report. This document provides an official account of the accident, including details about the involved parties and any citations issued. It can be vital for your insurance claim.
• Next, complete your medical treatment. Prioritize your health and follow through with all recommended medical appointments and therapies. This not only aids in your recovery but also creates a comprehensive medical record that can support your claim for damages.
• Additionally, gather all relevant documentation. Collect evidence such as photos of the accident scene, medical records, invoices for any expenses, and correspondence with insurance companies. These documents will help build your case.
• Finally, speak with an Athens rideshare accident attorney at Hall & Collins Injury & Accident Lawyers, LLC as soon as possible. We can guide you throughout the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. 

Contact a Knowledgeable Athens Rideshare Accident Lawyer Today

If you recently suffered injuries in an accident resulting from a rideshare driver or third-party driver’s negligence, you are not alone. The skilled attorneys at Hall & Collins Injury & Accident Lawyers, LLC can swiftly investigate your accident circumstances and begin pursuing the financial compensation you deserve for your accident-related losses.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled personal injury attorney in Athens, please call us at (706) 351-6055 or contact us online.