22 Jan Taxi accident claims
The number of taxis in Ireland is on the rise for the first time in a decade. 26,373 people are currently licensed to drive taxis and hackneys. With 55% of these operating in Dublin, our city streets are filled with taxis. It’s no wonder taxi accident claims occur.
If you have been injured in a taxi accident, contact Ferrys Personal Injury Solicitors for Advice.
Taxi accident claims: Who is responsible?
Although taxi drivers have vast amounts of experience and know routes like the back of their hand, accidents happen. Taxi drivers can become fatigued from working long hours. This, in turn, can lead to delayed reactions and reduced awareness.
Taxi drivers have a duty of care to their passengers and should ensure their safety. Any injuries incurred due to a taxi driver’s negligence can lead to personal injury claims against his or her insurance. (Cases are made against drivers rather than taxi companies.)
On the other hand, in the case of a road traffic collision, another driver may be at fault. If this is the case, personal injury claims need to be brought against the other vehicle driver rather than the taxi driver.
Some situations where a taxi driver may be considered negligent include:
- Texting or on a call while driving
- Under the influence of alcohol or drugs while driving
- Driving dangerously – by speeding, tailgating or breaking red lights etc.
In some cases, taxi accident claims may be brought forward without a collision taking place. If a taxi driver suddenly brakes and you sustain an injury, you may be able to bring forward a claim. But only if the driver was acting negligently, for example by speeding before applying the brake.
Common Injuries
In taxi accidents, passengers often receive worse injuries than the driver. Drivers are watching the road and often prepare for impact. Whereas passengers may be completely unaware of the oncoming collision.
Some of the most common injuries which passengers sustain in road traffic accidents include:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Back injuries
- Psychological injuries
What to do after being involved in a taxi accident
After any road traffic accident, safety is the first priority. If you, the driver or anyone else is injured, call the emergency services immediately. Later, if you are physically fit, you can document the incident and gather evidence that is often required in taxi accident claims.
After a taxi accident, you should:
- Note the taxi driver’s details, including the vehicle licence number, driver licence number, car registration number and insurance policy
- Get the details of any other drivers involved
- Take photos of the scene
- Note the time, date, weather conditions and details of your journey
- Get contact details for witnesses or emergency service staff who were at the scene
- Report the incident to Gardaí
- Attend a doctor and retain any medical reports and receipts
How to pursue taxi accident claims
If you have been injured in a taxi accident, you can make a claim against the driver responsible. You can request compensation for medical expenses, loss of income and suffering incurred.
If you’ve been hurt during a taxi ride, contact Ferrys Personal Injury Solicitors. One of our experts in taxi accident claims will advise you on your case.
