Taxicab accidents frequently happen when taxi drivers or cab companies behave negligently. For example, a taxi driver may disregard one or more rules of the road, while a cab company may fail to train their drivers adequately and appropriately.
If you sustained injuries in a recent taxicab accident, a knowledgeable Calgary car accident lawyer can be your advocate throughout the entire process. Your lawyer will work hard to protect your rights, advance your interests, and pursue the maximum compensation available to you, either through settlement or litigation.
Common Causes of Taxicab Accidents and Who Is Responsible
Taxicab accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to negligence. Some of the specific causes of these collisions include:
- Distracted Driving – Taxi drivers may become distracted with mobile devices, eating and drinking, or in-car navigation systems. When drivers take their attention away from the road, they are more likely to miss traffic signals, fail to notice pedestrians or make unsafe lane changes.
- Speeding – Many taxi drivers feel pressure to reach their destinations quickly to maximize their earnings. This can lead to speeding, which reduces the driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. Speeding also makes it more challenging to stop safely, especially in urban environments with heavy pedestrian traffic.
- Driving Under the Influence – While most taxi drivers are professionals who avoid alcohol and drugs, some may still engage in reckless behavior. If a driver operates their vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, their ability to control the vehicle is severely impaired, resulting in a higher likelihood of accidents.
- Fatigue – Long hours behind the wheel of a taxicab can lead to driver fatigue. Tired drivers may struggle to concentrate, experience slower reaction times, and may even fall asleep at the wheel. Fatigue-related accidents are particularly common among taxi drivers who work extended shifts without adequate rest.
- Poor Vehicle Maintenance – Taxi companies are responsible for maintaining their vehicles in safe operating conditions. Neglected maintenance, such as faulty brakes, worn tires, or broken lights, can lead to accidents. If a vehicle malfunctions due to inadequate upkeep, the taxi company may be held liable for any resulting injuries.
- Traffic Violations – Taxi drivers, like all motorists, must obey traffic laws. Running red lights, failing to yield, or making illegal turns can cause serious accidents. If a driver violates these rules, they may be held accountable for any collisions and injuries that occur.
Determining liability in taxi accidents can be complex. Typically, the driver may be held responsible for their negligence. However, taxi companies can also share liability – especially if they fail to ensure proper training, vehicle maintenance, or enforcement of safety policies. Passengers injured in these collisions may seek compensation from either the negligent driver or the taxi company, depending on the circumstances.
Common Injuries in Taxicab Accidents
Victims of taxicab accidents can experience a range of injuries, varying in severity from minor to life-threatening. Some of the most frequent injuries that victims may suffer include:
- Whiplash – Whiplash is a common injury in taxicab accidents, resulting from the sudden movement of the head and neck during a collision. Victims may experience neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. Treatment often involves rest, physical therapy, and pain management techniques.
- Concussions – A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that can occur when the head strikes an object, such as a dashboard or window. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory problems. Medical treatment for concussions typically includes rest and monitoring for any worsening symptoms. In some cases, neurocognitive therapy may be necessary to aid in the victim’s recovery.
- Bone Fractures – Victims may suffer broken bones due to the force of the taxicab accident. Common fractures occur in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone. Treatment usually involves immobilization with casts or splints, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bones.
- Soft Tissue Injuries – Injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often referred to as soft tissue injuries, can also occur during taxicab accidents. Sprains, strains, and bruises are common. Treatment may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physical therapy to strengthen the affected areas.
- Back Injuries – The force of a collision can also lead to back injuries, including herniated discs or muscle strains. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, or weakness in the legs. Treatment often involves pain management, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgery.
Many victims of taxicab accidents also suffer emotional and psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Therapy and counselling may be necessary to help victims cope with the emotional aftermath of their accidents.
How Can an Experienced Lawyer Assist with Your Taxicab Accident Case?
When you’re involved in a taxicab accident, navigating the legal components of a personal injury lawsuit can be overwhelming. An experienced taxicab accident lawyer can significantly enhance your chances of receiving fair compensation. Here are several ways a knowledgeable lawyer can assist you throughout the process:
- Legal Knowledge, Skill, and Guidance – A taxicab accident lawyer understands the intricacies of personal injury law, particularly as it pertains to taxi accidents. They can explain your rights, the legal process, and the potential outcomes of your case. This knowledge helps you make informed decisions and understand the steps you need to take.
- Thorough Investigation – A competent lawyer will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the taxicab accident. This includes gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and any available video footage. They may also consult accident reconstruction experts to establish liability. A thorough investigation is vital for building a strong case.
- Determining Liability – In taxicab accidents, determining liability can be complex. Multiple parties may share responsibility, including the taxi driver, the taxi company, or even other drivers involved in the accident. An experienced lawyer can identify all potentially liable parties and hold them accountable for your injuries.
- Calculating Damages – Accurately assessing the damages you’ve suffered is essential for ensuring that you receive appropriate compensation. A lawyer will consider various factors, including your lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. They will work to ensure that all damages are accounted for in your claim.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies – Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts. A skilled lawyer can handle negotiations on your behalf, presenting evidence and arguments to support your claim. Their experience in dealing with insurance adjusters can help with securing a fair settlement without you having to navigate the process alone.
- Litigation Experience – If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. They will have the skills and experience necessary to represent you effectively in front of a jury. Their ability to present compelling arguments and evidence can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
- Providing Emotional Support – The aftermath of a taxi accident can be emotionally taxing. An experienced lawyer not only offers strong legal support but also provides reassurance and guidance throughout the process, allowing you to focus on your medical recovery.
From investigating the accident circumstances to negotiating with insurance companies effectively, a taxicab accident lawyer’s knowledge and skill can significantly increase your chances of achieving a successful case outcome.
Important Evidence in a Taxicab Accident Claim or Lawsuit
When pursuing a taxicab accident claim or lawsuit, gathering the right evidence is key for establishing liability and supporting your case. The following types of evidence are among the most important when proving your claim:
- Accident Reports – Official police reports are essential pieces of evidence. These documents provide a detailed account of the taxicab accident, including statements from involved parties, witness accounts, and the officer’s observations. Police reports can establish facts about the incident and help clarify who may be at fault.
- Witness Statements – Eyewitness accounts can be invaluable in an accident case. Witnesses can provide objective perspectives on what occurred leading up to the collision. Collecting statements from individuals who were present during the accident can strengthen your case, especially if their accounts support your version of events.
- Photographic Evidence – Photos taken at the accident scene can offer powerful visual evidence. Images should include the vehicles involved, any visible damages, traffic signals, road conditions, and any relevant landmarks. Photographs can help illustrate the circumstances of the accident and may highlight negligence on the part of the taxi driver or other parties.
- Medical Records – Comprehensive medical documentation is essential for substantiating your injuries. Medical records detailing your diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis can provide evidence of the physical harm, pain, suffering, and inconvenience that you experienced due to the taxicab accident.
- Traffic Camera Footage – In many urban areas, traffic cameras capture real-time footage of roads. If available, this footage can provide clear evidence of the accident’s occurrence and may help confirm details such as the actions of the taxi driver or other motorists involved.
- Vehicle Maintenance Records – If the taxicab accident resulted from mechanical failure or poor maintenance, then maintenance records can help demonstrate liability. These records may reveal whether the taxi company properly maintained the vehicle, potentially implicating them in the accident.
- Cell Phone Records – If distracted driving is a factor in the accident, cell phone records may be important. Evidence showing that the taxi driver was using their phone at the time of the accident can establish negligence.
These types of evidence all play a significant role in building a strong case and achieving a favourable outcome.
Compensation for Injuries Following a Taxicab Accident
If you’ve suffered an injury in a taxicab accident, you may be entitled to several forms of compensation for your injuries and related hardships. Being aware of these compensation types can help you navigate the claims process more effectively. Here are some common forms of compensation you may receive:
- Lost income – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost earnings. This includes the income you would have earned during your recovery period. If your injuries lead to a prolonged absence from work or reduced hours, you may also be eligible for future lost earnings.
- Pain and Suffering – Pain and suffering compensation addresses the emotional and physical distress that directly results from your injuries. This form of compensation is subjective and considers factors such as the severity of your injuries, the duration of your pain, and how the injuries affect various aspects of your daily life. The more severe and long-lasting the pain, the higher the potential compensation you may receive.
- Loss of Life Enjoyment – If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed – such as sports, hobbies, or spending time with family and friends – you may qualify to recover compensation for the loss of life enjoyment you experienced. This recognizes the emotional and psychological effects that serious injuries can have on your overall quality of life.
- Emotional Distress – Many taxicab accident victims experience emotional challenges following their accident, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Compensation for emotional distress acknowledges the psychological effects of the accident and the changes it brings to your mental well-being.
- Loss of Consortium – In some circumstances, if your injuries negatively affect your relationship with your spouse, they may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium. This compensation addresses the loss of companionship, affection, and support that can occur when one partner is seriously injured in an accident.
- Punitive Damages – In cases where the taxi driver or company acted with gross negligence or intentional wrongdoing, you may be awarded punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and prevent similar wrongful conduct in the future.
A skilled taxicab accident lawyer will work to ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve in your personal injury claim or lawsuit.
Speak to an Experienced Taxicab Accident Lawyer Right Away
If you or a person you love recently sustained injuries in a taxicab accident, a skilled Calgary personal injury lawyer can handle every step of the claims filing and litigation processes for you. Your lawyer will first obtain the evidence necessary to prove your case and can file a claim or lawsuit on your behalf. Then, your lawyer will aggressively negotiate with insurance company representatives and, if necessary, litigate your case to a swift resolution in court.
