New rules for GA ride-shares make getting a car safer. Here’s what to know

With the rise in safety concerns surrounding ride-share services for both the drivers and the riders, Georgia has introduced legislation that will tighten safety standards.

House Bill 721, an amendment to O.C.G.A. § 40-1-190, eases red tape for drivers while mandating crime alerts, data privacy, and grievance processes statewide.

Ride-share laws in Georgia

O.C.G.A. § 40-1-190 provides key definitions for Georgia’s ride-share and transportation referral rules under the Motor Carrier Act (Part 4, Article 3). Georgia HB 721 amends O.C.G.A. § 40-1-192 and § 40-1-193 to add safety and privacy rules for transportation referral services and ride-share networks.

Main provisions of the amendment:

• Platforms must notify drivers if pickup zones exceed FBI national violent crime averages
• Sharing of personal information is prohibited without consent 
• Required process for drivers to appeal deactivations, bad ratings, or disputes
• Companies can limit liability if they vet drivers properly.
• Established a statewide uniformity for fines and enforcement

Penalties and recourse for violations

Violations of the new safety/privacy/grievance rules fall under Georgia’s broader Motor Carrier Act enforcement (O.C.G.A. § 40-1-180 et seq.), handled by the Department of Public Safety.

Penalties:

• For services: $500-$5,000 civil fines per violation and escalates with more infractions
• For drivers: Could trigger license/insurance lapses under general traffic laws that carry ($100-1,000 + points)

Recourse:

• Drivers: Use the mandated grievance process in-app for deactivations, ratings, or disputes
• If ignored, report to Georgia Department of Public Safety
• Riders: Report via app or the Georgia Department of Transportation (dial 511)

Safety tips for riders

The amendment to the laws aim to make the experience safer, but habits and behavior can make the most difference.

Rider tips:

• Match license plate, car make/model, driver photo in app and use PIN confirmation if offered
• Send location/rider details to a friend via app and double check it
• Always sit in the back and use your seat belt
• Request to wait inside or with a crowd and avoid dark or deserted areas