A taxicab accident in Smyrna is frustrating and overwhelming. You might wonder where to turn first. Meanwhile, you have medical bills and more to pay. Thankfully, a Smyrna taxicab accident lawyer can help.
At John Foy & Associates, we believe accident victims have rights. You should get compensation for your injury costs. We’ve helped clients do just that for over 20 years.
Contact us today, and we’ll give you a FREE consultation. One of our experienced lawyers will discuss your options with you. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online for your FREE consultation.
How to Know Who Is Responsible for Your Taxicab Accident
Taxicab accidents are less straightforward than other auto accidents. (But keep in mind: If you were a passenger in the taxi, you hold no fault in the accident.)
One or more of the following parties could be responsible.
The Taxicab Driver
Some taxicab drivers have a reputation for reckless or aggressive driving. While trying to get you to your destination faster, a taxi driver might make mistakes. Their carelessness could lead to an accident.
If the taxicab driver is an independent contractor, they might be liable. You will need to determine the driver’s employment status.
The Cab Company
The cab driver might be an employee of a company. Companies must ensure their employees are careful while on the job. If a taxicab driver causes an accident, their employer might be responsible.
Another Driver
Sometimes, the taxicab driver isn’t responsible for an accident at all. Maybe another driver was negligent. If another driver hits your taxicab driver’s car, the other driver is liable.
A Government Entity
Some cities are responsible for taxicab regulation. The government might handle the inspection of taxi cars. In some cases, the city might be responsible for an accident. However, this is rare.
A Vehicle Parts Manufacturer
If a defect with the taxi caused the accident, a manufacturer could be liable. Manufacturing companies must put out safe products. A defective part means the company is responsible.
A Smyrna taxicab accident lawyer can help determine who was at fault. Sometimes, more than one party might be at fault. You might need to file a claim with more than one person. Talk to a lawyer today to know your options.
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How Taxicab Accidents Happen in Smyrna
Taxicab drivers must follow traffic laws like all other drivers. But some taxi drivers will act in a way that causes accidents.
Some of the most common actions that cause crashes include:
- Speeding
- Aggressive driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Tailgating
- Running traffic signs or signals
- Cutting off other drivers
A taxicab company might fail to train a driver properly. Or, the company might hire someone who is not fit for the role. If a situation like this happens, the company could be responsible.
What to Do After a Taxicab Accident Happens
After the accident, there are actions you can take. First, check your injuries. If you need emergency medical attention, get it immediately.
If you are well enough to wait for medical attention, you should:
- Get the cab driver’s name, license number, and employer information.
- Call the police to report the accident.
- Take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries.
The police will create an accident report. You will need a copy of this report for your records. Also, avoid admitting any blame or fault in the accident. Anything you say could be used against you later.
After you leave the scene, see a doctor for your injuries. Even if you feel okay, it’s crucial to have a record that you sought treatment. Then, call an experienced taxicab accident lawyer for help.
John Foy & Associates can help you with your case. We know how to gather evidence and build a strong injury claim. To schedule a FREE, no-risk consultation today, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
Taxicab Accident Versus Other Auto Accidents
Liability for taxicab accidents is often more complicated than other auto accidents.
When a car accident happens between two drivers’ personal vehicles, one of the drivers is probably at fault. The at-fault driver would be responsible for the injured driver’s damages. The wounded driver could file an injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
With a taxicab accident, it can be harder to pursue compensation. You might need to file multiple claims. In some cases, you may need to bring a lawsuit. If the liable party is a large company, getting the recovery you deserve will be more difficult.
What You Can Recover from a Smyrna Taxicab Accident
Under Georgia Code Section 51-12-4, you can seek damages as compensation. You might be entitled to recovery for all of your costs. However, you will need to file a strong injury claim.
Here are some of the damages you can recover.
Medical Costs
Medical expenses will be your most significant damages. To even have a valid claim, you must have physical injuries.
You can claim any medical costs of treating your injuries like:
- Doctor bills
- Hospital bills
- Prescription medications
- Physical therapy
- Rehabilitation
Your lawyer will estimate any future medical treatment, too. You deserve compensation for all past and future costs.
Lost Income
If you were working before the accident, you’ll probably have to miss work. You can claim missed income as lost wages.
Sometimes, accident injuries prevent you from returning to the same work. If you cannot work as you could before, you might be able to claim lost earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Medical costs and lost wages are special damages. You can prove these losses through documentation. However, pain and suffering damages are different.
Pain and suffering are general damages. These losses include:
- Mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Anxiety or depression
- Scarring or disfigurement
Not all damages are money-based. You might be entitled to payment for the accident’s emotional impact. Your lawyer will know how to determine what that’s worth for your case.
Talk to a Smyrna Taxicab Accident Lawyer During a Free Consultation
At John Foy & Associates, we know what it takes to win cases. If a taxicab accident left you injured, call us today. We’ll discuss the details and your legal options.
To schedule your FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form