Taxis are often viewed as a reliable and convenient mode of transportation. But what happens when a taxi gets involved in an accident? This can be traumatizing. It can also be confusing to determine who should be held liable. That’s why it’s critical to know your rights as a passenger before an accident, so that you can take the right legal action if you find yourself suffering. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you deserve compensation. Below are various things to consider when filing a taxi injury claim.
Taxi accidents-who is liable?
Taxis are common carriers, and it’s their legal obligation to ensure the safety of passengers. If the taxi driver violates this through unsafe driving resulting in an accident, then the driver or the taxi company will be responsible for any injuries incurred.
To hold the driver responsible, you will need a lawyer. For example, if you were injured in a taxi accident in Queens, NY, you would want to contact a local attorney there immediately. Your attorney will determine fault and liability. This can be the driver, the insurance company, or another third party. In the case that the driver also incurs injuries, the operating company may also liable for damages suffered by the driver and the passengers.
Steps to take after a taxi accident
Taxis are insured just like other types of public transport vehicles. If you sustain injuries in a taxi accident, you can file a claim, the same way you would if involved in other types of car accidents. The steps to take are:
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Collect the right information from your taxi driver
Record the vehicle’s registration number and the name and contact details of the driver. If unable to get the contact of the driver, obtain the private vehicle hire license number. This will help in tracing the taxi driver if they refuse to provide their details.
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Get witnesses & take photos.
If possible, get a few witnesses at the accident scene, obtain their contact details, and take photos. Such information will be useful to the attorney and can be used to argue your case in court.
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Seek medical help
Taxi accidents often result in injuries, and you don’t want to risk your health. Seek professional medical help promptly, and get treatment for all the damages incurred. Have the doctor record all this in writing, for you’ll need it when filing a taxi accident claim.
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Get in touch with a lawyer.
A taxi accident attorney will examine your case and determine whether you qualify to file an accident claim. These are professionals who will guide and assist you in the entire process. The lawyer will play a notable role and determines whether you get compensation or not.
Some of the critical roles if a taxi accident attorney are;
- Gathering evidence
- Filing a court claim
- Court representation
- Handling legal paperwork
- Negotiating the right settlement
- Advice on legal matters
The bottom line
Most taxi accidents can be fatal, involving severe injuries. As a passenger, you’re entitled to compensation from the taxi company, and it’s advisable to contact an attorney after the accident. The expert will help you file an accident claim, offer the necessary legal representation, and ensure that you get compensated for your damages.