Taxi Accidents

Taxi accidents often occur when drivers engage in reckless behaviors like speeding, distracted driving, or driving while fatigued. In their rush to pick up or drop off passengers, taxi drivers can make dangerous decisions that put others at risk. These accidents frequently lead to severe injuries for both passengers and other drivers, leaving victims with physical pain, emotional distress, and significant financial burdens.

If you’ve been injured in a Prince George’s County taxi accident, it’s crucial to have knowledgeable legal support. The dedicated taxi accident lawyers at Foran & Foran, P.A. will thoroughly investigate the incident, gather the necessary evidence to prove negligence, and work to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in seeking justice and recovering damages.

Taxi accidents can occur for many reasons, often involving multiple factors. Some of the most common causes include:

• Driver fatigue. Taxi drivers often work long shifts, which can lead to fatigue. Fatigued drivers are more likely to make poor decisions, such as falling asleep at the wheel or failing to react in time to avoid an accident.
• Distracted driving. Taxi drivers may become distracted by GPS devices, fare meters, or conversations with passengers. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents in Prince George’s County, and taxi drivers are not immune to this danger.
• Reckless driving. To get passengers to their destination quickly, taxi drivers may speed, run red lights, or make illegal turns, all of which can lead to collisions.
• Failure to maintain vehicles. Taxis are constantly on the road, and they may become a hazard without proper maintenance. Worn brakes, bald tires, or faulty lights can all contribute to accidents.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding and driver error are significant factors in car accidents, including those involving commercial vehicles like taxis. The constant pressure taxi drivers face to meet their financial goals, and the stress of long shifts significantly contribute to these risks.

Injuries sustained in taxi accidents can be severe, and they often require extensive medical treatment and recovery time. Some common injuries include:

• Whiplash. Sudden impact from a collision can cause neck injuries, including whiplash, which can result in chronic pain and limited mobility.
• Head injuries. Passengers may hit their heads on the interior of the taxi during an accident, leading to concussions or traumatic brain injuries.
• Broken bones. The force of an impact can cause broken arms, legs, or ribs, particularly if the passenger is thrown around inside the vehicle.
• Spinal injuries. Serious accidents can result in damage to the spine, leading to paralysis or long-term disability.

These injuries not only affect a victim’s physical well-being but also have financial consequences, such as expensive medical bills and lost wages. Victims may be unable to return to work or participate in their regular activities for weeks, months, or even longer.

Liability in taxi accidents can be more complicated than in a typical car accident. Multiple parties could be held responsible for the injuries you’ve suffered, including:

• Taxi driver. If the driver’s negligence or reckless driving caused the accident, they can be held liable.
• Taxi company. Taxi companies are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are well-maintained, and drivers follow traffic laws. If the company failed to meet these responsibilities, they could be held accountable for the accident.
• Other drivers. In some cases, another driver may have been at fault for the accident, and they can be pursued for compensation.
• Vehicle manufacturers. If a mechanical failure, such as brake failure or tire blowout, contributed to the accident, the taxi manufacturer or its parts may also be liable.

Taxi accidents, like other commercial vehicle accidents, often involve more complex insurance claims. Taxi companies typically carry more extensive insurance policies, which means higher compensation amounts may be available, but insurance companies may also fight harder to avoid paying claims.

If you’ve been injured in a taxi accident, the experienced Prince George's car accident lawyers at Foran & Foran, P.A. are ready to help you fight for the compensation you need to ensure you are not left paying for another’s negligence. Whether it's negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to court, we are dedicated to protecting your rights. Call us today at 301-441-2022 for a free consultation with a skilled and compassionate attorney. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.