Although taxis are less common lately, due to the rise in ridesharing services, residents of Johns Creek still utilize taxicabs as transportation. If you or someone you love was injured in an accident involving a taxi, you likely have compensation options. A Johns Creek taxicab can look at the details and determine your legal rights.
When you call or flag down a taxi, you’re trusting the driver with your safety. If an accident happens, you shouldn’t have to pay for damages you did not cause. The same applies if you were in another vehicle when the accident occurred.
At John Foy & Associates, we can help you build a case to seek compensation for your damages. With over 20 years of experience helping injury victims win what they deserve, we are dedicated to upholding your rights. Talk to us today during a FREE, no-risk consultation by calling (404) 400-4000 or contacting us online.
Your Legal Options After a Taxicab Accident in Johns Creek
Under Georgia Code § 40-1-190, taxicab services refer to any company or driver that uses a “motor vehicle or similar vehicle, device, machine, or conveyance to transport passengers.” The company or provider must also be authorized to provide their taxi services based on local government ordinances.
Like all other drivers, taxicab operators have a legal duty to drive safely on the roads. Many taxi drivers are also working for a taxicab company, which is responsible for most actions of their drivers. If you were injured because of a taxi driver’s negligence, you are likely entitled to compensation from the driver and/or the company.
To know your full legal options, it’s best to contact a Johns Creek taxicab accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can examine the details of the accident and determine the best course of action for your financial recovery.
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Recovering Damages As a Passenger in a Taxicab Accident
If you were injured while riding as a passenger in a taxi, the situation can be really scary and overwhelming. You might not know where to turn and whether or not you can hold the driver responsible.
According to Georgia Code § 51-1-36, a motor vehicle driver owes the same duty of care to their passengers as they do to others on the road. They must act in a prudent way that does not cause harm. That includes following all traffic laws and not being negligent while performing driving services.
You’ll need to determine whether or not the taxicab driver was responsible for the accident. If another driver was involved, they could be partially to blame. Your lawyer can investigate to see who is liable. As a passenger in the accident, it’s extremely unlikely that you would be held liable for the accident.
Determining Fault in an Accident with a Taxicab in Johns Creek
The responsible party in a taxicab accident may include any of the following:
- The taxicab driver
- The taxicab company
- Another driver
- A city or government entity
Taxi drivers are often known to drive aggressively, especially in busier cities. If you noticed that your driver was driving recklessly or violating certain traffic laws, tell your taxicab accident lawyer about it right away. This can be important evidence for your case.
Taxicab companies are often responsible for their drivers’ actions, so you may be able to pursue compensation directly from the company. If another driver involved in the accident was fully or partially at fault, you can likely bring a case against them, as well.
Sometimes, a city is responsible for monitoring taxi services and making sure the vehicles are safely maintained. An accident involving a taxicab may also result from poor road conditions or other factors that are government-managed. After an accident, the city or a government entity may be partially liable for the damages.
Damages Available in a Johns Creek Taxicab Accident Case
A taxicab accident can leave you with serious injuries and related damages, such as:
- Medical bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
Sometimes, punitive damages are also available in a taxicab accident case. Punitive damages are meant to punish serious wrongdoing or maliciousness, such as driving under the influence.
In addition, if a loved one was killed in a taxicab accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim on the deceased’s behalf. A personal injury lawyer can let you know if you’re eligible to file this type of claim.
If you were not at fault for the accident, you should not have to pay for these damages. It’s your legal right to pursue compensation for costs caused by another party’s negligence. Your lawyer can help calculate the full value of your damages so you know what type of settlement you deserve.
Be Wary of the Insurance Companies
You can file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party when seeking damages. This means you’ll be mostly dealing with the liable party’s insurance company. If there were multiple at-fault parties in the accident, you might be looking at more than one insurance claim.
It’s very important that you do not accept any money or sign anything from the insurance company without speaking to a taxicab accident lawyer first. In fact, it’s often a good idea to avoid all communication with the at-fault party’s insurer until you’ve been able to get a lawyer.
Insurance companies are not on your side. Any insurance adjuster who contacts you will be looking for ways to reduce how much they have to pay on your claim, even if they seem perfectly pleasant over the phone. To make sure your legal rights are protected, talk to a lawyer first.
Get a Free Consultation with a Johns Creek Taxicab Accident Lawyer Today
A taxicab accident lawyer in Johns Creek can help you:
- Determine who was at fault in your accident;
- Investigate the details of the accident;
- Gather evidence to strengthen your claim;
- Calculate the full value of your damages;
- Negotiate with the insurance company; and
- Make sure you are protected throughout each step of the process.
At John Foy & Associates, we have been helping injury victims for over 20 years. Contact us today and we’ll give you a FREE consultation to discuss your case and your options. We do not charge a fee unless we win you money, so there is no risk to you.
Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started with your FREE consultation today.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form