Taxi cabs are all over New Jersey, especially in its more urban areas. Generally, people think of taxis as a safe and efficient means to get from place to place. While taxi drivers are usually responsible and conduct themselves professionally, this is unfortunately not always the case. Many people are injured in taxi accidents every single year. Part of what makes a taxi accident so frightening and angering is that you, as the passenger, have almost no control of the outcome. This is why if you were injured, there is a very good chance you are looking to recover financial compensation to help pay for your medical bills, cost of in-home care, lost wages, and more. If you have been injured in a New Jersey taxi accident, here are some of the questions you may have:
What most commonly causes taxi accidents?
Taxi accidents are caused by several different factors and variables. For example, poor weather conditions, such as black ice. New Jersey winters are rarely driver-friendly. Poor road conditions and negligent road design also contribute to taxi accidents. However, at the end of the day, the most common cause of taxi accidents is driver negligence. Here are some examples of negligent taxi driver behavior:
- Driving while drowsy
- Speeding
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Unsafely changing lanes
- Failing to yield
- Eating or smoking while driving
- Ignoring traffic signs, lights, and other rules of the road
Who is liable in a taxi accident?
Generally, to win a personal injury lawsuit, you and your attorney must prove that you were injured due to another party’s negligence. However, determining the liable party is a bit more challenging when dealing with a taxi accident. For example, if a taxi driver does not own his or her vehicle, either he or his taxi company who does own the vehicle may be held responsible. In some cases, they may both even be held responsible. Oftentimes, you will not know the driver’s relationship to his or her company until the investigation has begun.
How do I prove a taxi driver’s negligence?
To prove a taxi driver’s negligence, you should first collect his or her information, including their license plate number. From here, the driver is required to report the accident to the insurance companies, however, he or she may not always do so. This is why you must hire an experienced attorney. An attorney will also help you recover security camera footage, medical documents, and witness testimony, all of which may be used to help prove your claim.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
The law firm of Mattleman, Weinroth & Miller, P.C., is composed of experienced defense attorneys throughout the state of New Jersey. Please contact the office for a free initial consultation and get any questions answered regarding criminal charges and procedures.