Many assumptions can be made about taxi drivers, including that they are more careless because they spend more time on the road than most drivers, or that they are more careful because they have seen many car accidents in their time behind the wheel. Unfortunately, although taxis are involved in fewer incidents on roadways overall, they are often more severe, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is often attributed to the fact that passengers do not wear seatbelts in taxis. Whatever the reason, knowing what to do if you are in an accident with a taxi could save a lot of time and effort.
What Is the Difference Between a Taxi and a Rideshare Driver?
First, it is important to note that taxis differ from rideshare programs, such as Lyft and Uber, because drivers are typically employed by the company as opposed to hired as independent contractors. This is particularly important if you are involved in a car accident because it will determine who is responsible for paying for damages. Although any accident typically begins with reporting it for coverage by your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP), it can quickly escalate into a need for additional finances depending on the bill you incur. In other words, if your damages exceed your coverage, you might want to consider seeking compensation from the negligent party. In this case, the individual responsible for paying damages would likely be the taxi company that owns the vehicle.
What Are Common Reasons for Taxi Accidents?
While there are a number of reasons for accidents involving taxis, some of the most common are inclement weather, distracted driving, speeding, reckless driving, failing to yield, and changing lanes too quickly or without signaling.
What to Do After an Accident?
Like any accident, it is important to remain calm and do a little legwork at the scene of the accident.
First, check to see if anyone has been injured. If they have, summon emergency medical services immediately. While you are waiting, gather contact information from any drivers involved in the accident, as well as the make and model of the vehicles they are driving. For a taxi driver, obtain additional information, such as their vehicle number, employee or license number, and the name of the company.
If there are witnesses, gather their contact information as well. If possible, take pictures of the scene as well as any injuries or property damage. Take note of whether there are any traffic cameras or video cameras on nearby buildings that might have captured the incident. Make sure to file a report either on scene with a police officer or go to the police department to make sure there is a record of the incident. And finally, report the situation to your insurance provider.
Things you should not do are try to assign blame or admit fault while talking with those involved on the scene. Also, refrain from talking with insurance adjusters, as they may attempt to use these conversations to minimize their payment to you. Instead, you may want to jot down your version of the events shortly after the incident while it is still fresh in your mind. Since you have two years to file a claim for personal injury, you may want to refer back to your notes in the event the details fade over time.
Get Assistance From the South Jersey Car Accident Lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm if You Have Been Involved in an Accident With a Taxi Cab
Discussing the details of your situation with a seasoned lawyer may help to determine the best course of action if you are involved in an accident with a taxi cab. Contact the South Jersey car accident lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm today at 609-926-3300 or submit our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, Woodbury, and South Jersey.