Ridesharing services have outshined taxis in recent years. However, taxicabs still exist in Alpharetta. Many people use taxi services regularly, and their drivers are not perfect. You are probably on this page if a taxicab accident injured you or a loved one. The first step is to talk to an Alpharetta taxicab accident lawyer.
Whether you were a taxi passenger or another driver, you have rights. If a taxi driver caused your accident, you might be entitled to compensation. At John Foy & Associates, we can help you take action to recover your costs.
Our lawyers have 20-plus years of experience in car accident cases. We are well-versed in local taxicab laws and in building strong claims. Contact us today, and we’ll give you a FREE consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Why Taxicab Accidents Happen
Taxicab accidents occur when someone has been negligent. Negligence is a legal term for carelessness. When someone’s negligence causes a taxicab accident, that person or party is legally responsible.
A taxicab accident might happen because of:
- Reckless driving
- Drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Traffic violations
- Driver fatigue
- Road rage
Sometimes, a car accident happens because of faulty vehicle parts. Poor maintenance is another possible cause. In either scenario, a company or mechanic could be to blame. However, the most common cause of a taxicab crash is a driver.
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Determining Who Caused the Taxicab Accident
That at-fault party will also depend on the taxi driver’s employment status. Some drivers work as independent contractors, so they are responsible for the damages. But if the taxicab company employs the at-fault driver, the company is probably to blame.
Sometimes, the at-fault party is another driver. Maybe you were the passenger in a taxicab, but another driver hit the taxi. You can probably take action against the other driver.
The legal side of taxicab accidents is more complicated than other car accidents. It’s best to consult with an Alpharetta taxicab accident lawyer first. A lawyer can discuss your best legal options for getting what you deserve.
Proving Responsibility for a Taxicab Accident
To hold the at-fault driver responsible, you’ll need to file a personal injury claim. An injury case is the only way to seek compensation for your damages.
A successful case must prove that:
- The driver owed you a duty of care.
- They breached that duty of care (and were negligent).
- The negligence caused the taxicab accident.
- You suffered injuries because of the accident.
Your claim will also need to show your damages. In other words, you must prove the losses that you have from the accident.
Alpharetta Taxicab Accident Damages
Damages you might have from the crash include:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Medical costs can include doctor bills, medications, physical therapy, and more. Keep track of all invoices and receipts showing these costs. Lost wages are missed income from having to take off work. You can show lost wages from pay stubs or tax returns.
If you were a taxicab passenger during the accident, you won’t have vehicle damage. However, you can claim expenses for damaged personal property. If you were the driver in another vehicle, you can claim vehicle repairs.
Pain and suffering damages are the most complex. You cannot show pain and suffering with a dollar amount like other losses. Your lawyer will need to calculate the worth of these damages (and the total of all your costs).
Partial Fault in a Taxicab Accident
In some cases, more than one party is partially to blame for an accident. If you’re worried that you caused part of the crash, you still have options.
According to Georgia Code Section 51-12-33, you can still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault. The courts would reduce your compensation by your percentage of fault.
Talk to a lawyer to learn more about partial fault in a taxi accident. At John Foy & Associates, we’ll answer any questions you have during a FREE consultation. To get started for FREE today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Steps You Should Take After a Taxicab Accident in Alpharetta
After a taxicab accident, there are things you can do to protect yourself. No matter your role in the crash, call 911. According to Georgia Code Section 40-6-273, you must report an accident with:
- Physical injuries
- At least $500 in property damage
Call the police, and let them know what happened. Officers will probably come to the scene to gather information. While you wait, compile your own evidence.
Get the taxicab driver’s name, cab number, and employer information. Take pictures of your injuries and the accident scene. Talk to any witnesses, and ask for their contact information.
If you have severe injuries, get medical treatment immediately. Otherwise, see a doctor as soon as possible. It’s also best to call a taxicab accident lawyer. Your lawyer can make sure you are on the right track.
Be Careful When Talking to the Insurance Company
Unfortunately, insurance companies are not on your side. The at-fault party’s insurer will probably reach out to you. Be very careful about any communication with them.
The insurance adjuster will be looking for ways to reduce what they pay you. They might downplay your injuries or try to blame you. Some adjusters will even sound friendly — but they do not have your best interests in mind.
We recommend getting a lawyer before talking to the insurance company. A lawyer protects your rights by handling the insurer. Meanwhile, you can focus on healing.
Get a Free Consultation with an Alpharetta Taxicab Accident Lawyer
If a taxicab accident injured you, John Foy & Associates can help. With over 20 years of personal injury experience, we know what it takes to win. Plus, we do not collect a fee unless we win your case.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online now. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
