To be hit by a vehicle is a traumatic experience, one that often ends in a civil lawsuit. What about when you are hit by a cab driver? Are there special rules involved? Here is what to know about an accident involving a taxi.
You Are Entitled to Compensation
If you were a pedestrian and a cab hit you, then you are most likely entitled to compensation. To file a claim, you have to suffer damages. If you have hospital bills, lost wages or any other monetary damages due to the accident, then you deserve to be compensated for it. Likewise, if you have to change careers or have dealt with serious mental health issues as a result of the accident, you may be able to sue for pain and suffering.
You Can Sue the Driver or the Company
When a cab strikes a pedestrian, it is almost always the driver’s fault. When the driver works for a company, it may not be clear who you can file the lawsuit against.
If the cab driver was off-duty, then the culpable party is the driver. In these cases, despite driving the car, the driver isn’t covered under the company’s insurance. He or she would have to rely on his or her insurance for the accident. In this case, you may not be able to sue the company.
If the driver was working at the time of the accident, then you may be able to file a lawsuit against the cab company or you may be able to file the suit against both parties. Now, if you file a claim against the company and the driver, this doesn’t mean that you receive double the damages. You would still receive the same amount of compensation for your accident.
If you sue a cab company’s insurance, then you have to be prepared for more of a fight. These companies tend to make it more difficult to collect a settlement. Due to this, it could help to have a lawyer to help you with negotiations. Odds are the insurance company will try to offer you a low settlement.
After an accident with a cab driver, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. A car accident lawyer, like from Hickey & Turim, SC, can provide you with reassurance and guidance during negotiations, pre-trial and even through trial if it goes that far. Set up a consultation to discuss your options as soon as possible.
