Georgia House Bill HB1324

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/24

Caption

Motor vehicles; ride share network services; liability for actions of drivers; provisions

Impact

If enacted, HB1324 will significantly alter the legal landscape for ride share companies operating within Georgia. By reducing their liability, the bill could encourage more businesses to enter the ride share market, promoting competition and potentially lowering ride costs for consumers. On the other hand, this exemption may raise concerns about rider safety and accountability in the event of accidents, as injured parties might find it harder to seek compensation from ride share companies when they are shielded from liability.

Summary

House Bill 1324 aims to amend the Official Code of Georgia Annotated by exempting ride share network services from vicarious liability for actions committed by ride share drivers while operating personal vehicles. The bill establishes that such services are not liable for injuries or damages incurred by riders or third parties, provided that there is no negligence or criminal misconduct on behalf of the ride share service. This legislative change targets the liability concerns that ride share companies face in the context of accidents involving their drivers.

Contention

The passage of HB1324 is likely to engender debate over the balance between fostering innovation in transportation and ensuring public safety. Advocates argue that the bill promotes economic activity by limiting the legal risks for ride sharing companies, enhancing services available to consumers. Conversely, critics may contend that such liability waivers undermine protections for individuals involved in accidents, as it could lead to a lack of accountability for ride share services, thus elevating safety risks for passengers and the general public.