Taxis are one of the most common forms of transportation in the city; they can be seen essentially anywhere you look. New York City alone has over 50,000 taxi drivers. Generally, taxis are seen as a safe and efficient means to a destination. However, sometimes taxi drivers are negligent. Unfortunately, if you are involved in a taxi accident as a passenger, there is nothing you can do–the situation is nearly completely out of your hands. This is why if you are injured, there is a very good chance you can recover financial compensation. This compensation may go towards in-home care costs, medical bills, lost wages, and more. Here are some questions you may have regarding financial compensation:
What most commonly causes taxi accidents?
Several different factors contribute to taxi accidents. For example, poor weather or road conditions, negligent road design, and faulty car parts all contribute to taxi accidents as a whole. However, the most common cause of taxi accidents is driver negligence. Here are some examples of negligent taxi driver behavior:
- 聽Eating while driving
- Texting while driving
- Smoking while driving
- Failing to yield
- Unsafely changing lanes
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Speeding
- Ignoring other rules and regulations of the road
- Disregarding traffic lights and signs
What are the NYC taxi insurance requirements?
NYC licensed taxi drivers must have at least $100,000 in insurance for individuals and $300,000 for groups. Unlicensed, private taxis, however, must carry $25,000 for individuals and $50,000 for groups. Generally, taxis have no-fault insurance, which covers immediate medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who is at fault for the accident.
How do I know if I am entitled to compensation following a taxi accident?
If you can prove your taxi driver鈥檚 negligent behavior is responsible for the injuries you have sustained, you can most likely recover financial compensation. You should contact an attorney immediately following your accident, as he or she will know the ins and outs of the personal injury process. In a taxi accident, it is your job to collect your driver鈥檚 information and his or her license plate number. Additionally, though the taxi driver is responsible for reporting the accident to his or her insurance carrier, you should not depend on them to do so. An attorney can help ensure the accident is reported. An attorney may also help you obtain security camera footage, witness testimony, medical documentation regarding your injuries, and any other evidence you may need to help prove your claim.聽
Contact our New York City firm
At Mark L. Bodner, P.C., we are committed to guiding clients through each step of the medical malpractice claims process. Our firm understands how traumatic it can be when you become a victim of medical malpractice. We are prepared to fight on your behalf to help you recover a maximum compensation award. Contact our firm today.