In New York City, thousands of taxis are on the road every day. New Yorkers depend on these taxis to get to work, school, and run errands. For many residents, taxis are their primary means of transportation.
Unfortunately, taxi accidents are just as common as their use — and passengers injured in a taxicab accident may feel as though there are limited options for covering their medical bills and other costs associated with their injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured while riding in a taxicab in NYC, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the skilled legal team at Schwartzapfel Lawyers for your free consultation today. Should you prefer to learn a bit more on the subject first, however, please continue reading.
What Does No-Fault Insurance For Taxi Accidents Mean In New York?
New York operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means if you’re injured while riding in a taxi, your medical expenses and lost wages will generally be covered by the taxi’s insurance — regardless of who caused the accident.
This system is designed to make it easier to get the help you need quickly. But here’s the catch: No-fault insurance only covers up to a certain amount, and it doesn’t account for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
If your injuries are severe enough — think broken bones or long-term disabilities — you’re entitled to financial compensation beyond the limits of no-fault insurance. That’s where personal injury claims come in. If you meet the criteria for serious injury, you could recover compensation for not only medical expenses but also for things like emotional distress or loss of enjoyment of life.
With time limits for filing claims, it’s important to act quickly. Your financial future is too important to leave to chance. To that end, please call the seasoned car accident attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers at 516-342-2200 or schedule your free consultation online today!
How Do You Determine Fault In Taxi Accidents?
Even though no-fault insurance takes care of some immediate costs, figuring out who was at fault for the accident is still important — especially if your injuries qualify you for a personal injury claim.
Was the taxi driver speeding? Did the other driver run a red light? Maybe it was a little of both. New York’s comparative negligence laws allow you to seek compensation even if you share part of the blame.
The tricky part is that taxi companies often try to distance themselves from responsibility by classifying drivers as independent contractors. But that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re off the hook. With the help of a seasoned taxi accident attorney, you may still be able to hold the taxi company accountable, depending on the specifics of the case.
Not sure where to start? Call the experienced law offices of Schwartzapfel Lawyers at 516-342-2200 or reach out to us online now. Without delay, we’ll review your case and help you better understand your options.
The Financial Consequences Of Negligence
Taxi passengers often have worse injuries from an accident than they would in a regular motor vehicle accident. This is because most taxi passengers do not wear seatbelts — especially if they are traveling just a few blocks.
The occupants can strike the partition in an accident and be seriously injured, regardless of how fast the taxi was traveling. Some passengers are injured because of neglect by the taxicab driver, while other times it is the driver of the other vehicle that is at fault.
Just some injuries that are common in taxicab accidents include but aren’t limited to:
- Whiplash
- Brain injury
- Lacerations
- Bruises
- Broken bones
While it may seem that a personal injury claim for a taxi accident is the same as any other type of accident, they do have distinct differences. For example, victims may have to deal with a person’s private insurance rather than a taxicab company’s insurance coverage — and even if the cab is insured, plaintiffs have to face insurance companies that will work hard to minimize settlements.
What To Do After A Taxi Accident
Taxi drivers are known for reckless and overly aggressive driving — after all, they make better tips if they get their passengers to their destination on time (or earlier). If you are involved in an accident as the passenger of a taxicab, there are some things you need to do first:
File A Police Report
You are required to report traffic accidents in New York State, so even if the cab driver does not want to report it, you should contact the police and wait at the scene (if it is safe to do so) until they arrive.
Seek Medical Treatment As Soon As Possible
Even if you do not think you are injured, you could have whiplash or internal injuries that will manifest or worsen as time goes on. Getting attention right away can help document these injuries and also limit the amount of pain, suffering, and treatment you have to endure.
Gather Documentation
Collect the information from not only the other driver but the taxicab driver, as well. You will want to get their license number (which is posted in the passenger area of the cab), contact information, and the information for the taxi company they work for.
Record Evidence
Take pictures of the accident scene(again, only if it is safe to do so) and pay attention to intersections, how the cars stopped, and any weather issues that were present.
Hire A Skilled Attorney ASAP
Even if you do not intend to file a claim, having your case reviewed by the right attorney is important. When a seasoned attorney is called in early, they have more time to collect necessary evidence and build your case.
What Kind Of Compensation Can You Get After A Taxi Accident?
After a taxi accident, you’re entitled to compensation for more than just your medical bills. Depending on the circumstances, you could recover:
- Medical Expenses: This includes current medical bills as well as any future medical costs related to the accident, like rehabilitation or ongoing treatments.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries keep you out of work, you can be compensated for the wages you’ve missed and any potential future earnings.
- Pain And Suffering: In cases of severe injuries, you may be able to recover damages for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced.
- Property Damage: If your belongings were damaged in the accident, such as your phone or laptop, you may be compensated for those, as well.
Working with an experienced attorney is the best way to get the full compensation you’re entitled to. Call Schwartzapfel Lawyers today at 516-342-2200 or contact us online for a free consultation. Our law firm would be honored to fight — and win! — for you.
Act Now: Don’t Miss Your Chance To File!
In New York, there are strict deadlines for filing an accident claim. You typically have three (3) years to file, but waiting too long could jeopardize your case. Not only do you risk losing valuable evidence, but witness recollections can fade over time, and surveillance footage can disappear.
At Schwartzapfel Lawyers, we know how to act fast and secure the evidence needed to build a strong case. Don’t leave it to chance. Call us today at 516-342-2200 for a free consultation — one phone call could save you miles of headache and heartache down the road.
Why You Shouldn’t Deal With Insurance Companies Alone
One of the most stressful parts of any accident is dealing with insurance companies. You might think it’s easier to handle things on your own, but insurance companies are often looking out for their bottom line — not your best interests.
They might offer a quick settlement, but that offer might not cover all your expenses, especially if your injuries are more serious than they initially seem. Here’s what to know:
- Don’t Rush To Accept A Settlement. Insurance companies may offer you less than what you deserve in an attempt to close the case quickly. Take the time to fully understand the extent of your injuries and losses before making any decisions. It’s important to ensure that any settlement reflects your true needs and potential future expenses.
- Be Careful With Your Statements. Anything you say to the insurance company can be used to minimize your claim, even if it’s taken out of context. To this end, you should always stick to the facts and avoid speculation or exaggeration. Moreover, it’s generally wise to consult with a qualified legal professional before speaking with the insurance company to protect your interests.
- Leave Negotiations To The Professionals. An experienced personal injury attorney knows how to handle these discussions and ensure that your rights are protected. They can speak for you, negotiate the best possible deal, and help you get all the money and benefits you deserve without you having to deal with it all on your own.
We know dealing with an insurance policy can be a headache, but you don’t have to do it alone. Call Schwartzapfel Lawyers now at 516-342-2200 or reach out online for a free consultation and so much more.
Both in and out of court, we’ve got your back every step of the way.
Schwartzapfel Lawyers Will Fight For You!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a taxicab accident, please don’t wait until it’s too late. Instead, act now by contacting Schwartzapfel Lawyers for a consultation at 516-342-2200 or by scheduling your free consultation online today.
No matter your situation, it will be our honor and privilege to fight for you. Call now!
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this page should be considered legal advice. You should seek the appropriate counsel your situation requires. For more information, call 516-342-2200 now!
Sources:
Schwartzapfel Lawyers, P.C. | Fighting For You
Statute of Limitations chart | NY CourtHelp
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New York Police Department surveillance films | NYCMA Collection Guides
