When we hail a taxi, we put our trust in the driver to get us to our destination safely. Unfortunately, accidents are not uncommon, and passengers can be seriously injured as a result. Most taxi drivers are also naturally aggressive and impatient, which can result in them taking unnecessary risks while driving. As a passenger, you have the right to hold the driver liable for any injuries that you suffer because of their negligence. This means that you can file a legal claim against the driver and/or their company to recover compensation for your damages. The most common injuries suffered by passengers include whiplash, head injuries, broken bones, lacerations, and psychological trauma, among others. If you have been injured in a taxi, it is important to seek medical attention, and then contact a lawyer to discuss your legal options. Let’s look at some of the key legal issues that you should be aware of if you are involved in this type of accident:
How A Lawyer Could Help with Your Case
A lawyer can identify that you have the right to file a personal injury claim after being harmed in a taxi accident. Other rights you may have include:
You have the right to a full and fair settlement: You shouldn’t have to worry about how you’ll cover the costs of your medical treatment, lost wages, and other damages. A lawyer can fight for a settlement that covers all your losses.
The right to trial: If the insurers refuse to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can take your case to court.
The right to be compensated for your pain and suffering: In some cases, you may also be able to recover compensation for pain and suffering in addition to economic damages like medical bills or lost wages.
Overall, you can expect your attorney to investigate your case and gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.
Filing a Lawsuit
If everything goes well, you should receive a settlement offer from the insurance company that fairly compensates you for your damages. However, this doesn’t always happen. In some cases, they will either lowball you or deny your claim entirely. When this happens, you still have the option of filing a lawsuit against the driver’s company. This is where a legal practitioner can be extremely helpful, as they will have the knowledge and resources to build a strong case on your behalf. Depending on your state, you will likely have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. If you wait too long to file a lawsuit, you may be barred from recovering compensation altogether.
Conclusion
If you have been injured in a taxi, it is important to understand your legal rights and options. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain, emotional suffering, and more. Whereas the insurers may try to lowball you or deny your claim, a personal injury lawyer can help you fight for the full and fair compensation that you deserve. If you have been hurt, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible.