Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become a normal part of life in Columbus from late-night Uptown trips, to commuting between Fort Moore and downtown, to shopping runs on Whittlesey Boulevard or Macon Road. But when a rideshare driver makes a reckless turn, brakes suddenly, or becomes distracted by their phone or GPS, a relaxing ride can become a terrifying, life-changing crash.
At Ted Law Firm, our Columbus rideshare accident lawyers help passengers, motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and rideshare drivers injured in Uber or Lyft collisions. These cases are far more complex than ordinary accidents multiple insurance companies are involved, app-status rules change coverage, and rideshare companies often deny responsibility.
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Columbus, don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly, app data resets, and insurance companies act fast to protect themselves. Our team is ready to protect your rights from the beginning.
Local Roads, Local Representation
Uber and Lyft accidents commonly occur in:
- Uptown Columbus / Broadway — nightlife, sudden stops, and heavy pedestrian traffic
- Macon Road & Buena Vista Road — congested retail zones
- Whittlesey Blvd & Bradley Park Drive — chaotic turning traffic
- Veterans Parkway — fast-moving multi-lane corridor
- I-185 — high-speed rideshare commuter accidents
- Manchester Expressway — unsafe merges
- JR Allen Parkway (US-80) — severe multi-vehicle crashes
- Airport — Downtown routes — shuttle traffic and frequent pickups
Rideshare accidents often involve:
- Distracted app navigation
- Illegal or unsafe drop-offs
- Speeding between rides
- Fatigued driving after long shifts
- Risky left-turn maneuvers
- Sudden braking for passengers waiting curbside
We understand these patterns, and how to build cases around them.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in Georgia
Uber and Lyft accidents are complicated because the driver’s app status determines which insurance policy applies.
Here is the breakdown:
PHASE 1 — App OFF (Driver Offline)
The driver’s personal auto insurance applies.
Uber/Lyft provide no coverage.
PHASE 2 — App ON (Driver Waiting for a Ride)
Uber/Lyft provide limited coverage:
- $50,000 bodily injury per person
- $100,000 bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 property damage
PHASE 3 — Ride Accepted or Passenger in Vehicle
Uber/Lyft provide up to $1,000,000 in coverage, including:
- Liability insurance
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Contingent collision coverage
This is the highest protection level — and applies whether the victim is:
✔ A passenger
✔ Another driver
✔ A pedestrian
✔ A cyclist
We ensure your crash is placed in the correct phase so you receive the maximum possible coverage.
Common Injuries in Columbus Rideshare Accidents
Because passengers often have no warning before impact, injuries can be severe:
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Emotional trauma and post-accident anxiety
- Wrongful death in fatal crashes
Many victims require long-term treatment and rehabilitation.
Who Is Liable in a Columbus Uber/Lyft Accident?
Liability may fall on:
✔ The Rideshare Driver
If they were speeding, distracted, or careless.
✔ Another Negligent Driver
If a third party caused the crash.
✔ Uber/Lyft Insurance Policies
Depending on the driver’s app status.
✔ Commercial Drivers
Delivery vehicles & freight trucks often hit smaller rideshare vehicles.
✔ Rideshare Companies (Indirectly)
Through their insurance, though generally not sued directly.
✔ Bars/Restaurants (Dram Shop Liability)
If a drunk rideshare driver was overserved.
✔ Employers
If either driver was working at the time.
✔ Government Entities
If road design or signal malfunction contributed.
We pursue every available insurance source rideshare cases often involve multiple policies.
Types of Recoverable Compensation
Economic Damages
- Hospital bills
- Surgery & rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Medication & imaging
- Travel expenses
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- PTSD
- Disability or impairment
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Punitive Damages
For drunk or reckless drivers.
Wrongful Death Damages
For fatal rideshare crashes.
What To Do After a Rideshare Accident in Columbus
- Call 911
- Screenshot your ride details
- Save the Uber/Lyft receipt
- Photograph injuries, vehicles & the scene
- Get witness contact information
- Seek medical treatment immediately
- Do NOT give recorded statements
- Do NOT rely on Uber/Lyft to handle your claim
- Contact Ted Law Firm immediately
Rideshare app data (GPS logs, timestamps, ride status) can disappear quickly — we preserve it.
Five Star Service
We pride ourselves on creating “wow” moments for our clients. That’s why Ted Law Firm has 5 star ratings, a client choice award from Avvo and and clients hire us again and again.
Free Rental Car Help
Many people who have been involved in a car accident don’t know how to navigate their insurance coverage. Our attorneys will review your insurance policy for free* and ensure you’re getting any rental car benefits you’re entitled to.
Next Generation Law Firm
Our firm uses 21st century technology and the latest law to maximize claim value, push your case forward quickly, and keep you informed every step of the way.
Pay Nothing Until We Get You $$$
FREE* Case Review. Immediate work. We even front the cost for ordering medical records, getting police reports, and conducting an investigation while we work up your claim.
30 Day Guarantee
We’ll help you for 30 days, through the roughest part of your wreck. We’re so confident in our client experience that we offer this: If you’re not completely satisfied, you won’t be charged a fee and you’ll be free to do as you please.
FREE Legal Resources
We have created a ton of free videos and guides to get you immediate help on your claim.
Why Legal Help Matters
Uber and Lyft hire massive insurance defense teams trained to:
- Blame the other driver
- Claim the driver was “off the app”
- Downplay injuries
- Deny ride status
- Delay claims
- Offer low settlements
We fight back by:
- Retrieving trip data and GPS logs
- Securing dashcam or surveillance footage
- Interviewing witnesses
- Working with reconstruction experts
- Coordinating medical evaluations
- Pursuing punitive damages when appropriate
You deserve a team that understands rideshare law and how to win these complex cases.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Time is critical in rideshare cases:
- App data may reset
- Witnesses vanish
- Uber/Lyft deactivate drivers
- Vehicle repairs destroy evidence
- Camera video is overwritten
- Georgia’s 2-year deadline begins immediately
Early legal action gives you the strongest case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who pays my medical bills after an Uber/Lyft accident?
The rideshare insurance policy may apply depending on app status.
2. Can I sue Uber or Lyft directly?
Usually no — but their insurance pays.
3. What if the rideshare driver was drunk?
Punitive damages may apply.
4. What if the driver claims the app was off?
We investigate GPS logs and trip records to determine truth.
5. Can I file a claim if I was a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a rideshare?
Yes — rideshare insurance often applies.
6. What if another driver caused the crash?
You can still file against Uber/Lyft insurance in many cases.
7. What if the Uber/Lyft vehicle was hit while I was a passenger?
You may qualify for $1M liability coverage.
8. How long do I have to file a rideshare accident claim?
Two years under Georgia law.
9. Do I need a lawyer?
Yes — rideshare insurers are highly aggressive.
10. Do you charge upfront?
No — you pay nothing unless we win.
Contact Us Columbus Rideshare Accident Lawyers
If you were injured in an Uber or Lyft accident in Columbus, Fort Moore, Phenix City, or anywhere in the Chattahoochee Valley, you deserve a legal team that knows the unique challenges of rideshare injury cases, and how to win them.
At Ted Law Firm, we fight for victims with skill, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
Call today for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win.