As the oldest operating taxi service in the city, the Austin Cab Company has a long history of safely getting passengers from one point to another. But that doesn’t mean that they don’t get into accidents. In fact, increased pressure from ride shares operations like Uber and Lyft have increased pressures on this and other cab companies, potentially affecting speed and safety. It can impact you when one of their cabs slams into your vehicle. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident with an Austin Cab Company driver, there are a few things you need to know.
You Can Sue More Than One Party
The natural thinking when you’re in an accident caused by another driver is to go after them for damages. The same is true when a cab hits you, but in this situation you also have a second option of suing the Austin Cab Company itself. The city requires cab drivers to have up to $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident in automotive insurance. That’s fine if your damages are covered by the amount they cover. If not, however, you may be able to get more money from the cab company, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Consult with an attorney to learn what your options may be.
Record What Happened
Evidence is the cornerstone of many auto accidents and an accident with an Austin Cab Company Driver is no different. One of the first things you should do is call the police to get an official report that relays everything from the weather to the circumstances of the roadway at the time of the accident. Take pictures of both their vehicle and your vehicle at the scene. Both can help determine the level of damage and may even be useful in showing who caused the wreck. Get the contact information of any passengers or eyewitnesses as these can be invaluable when it’s time for court. Most importantly, don’t discuss the wreck with the driver, as anything you say can be twisted in court. Instead, find an accident attorney as soon as possible and leave the talking to them. They will know what to say and what not to say, as well as how best to negotiate with the cab company and their insurers.
Everything you say and do immediately after an auto accident can have far-reaching consequences. Take the right steps early, including hiring an auto accident lawyer to help you determine what you are owed.
