Who is Liable for Taxicab Accidents?
Accidents involving taxicabs can result in significant injuries and property damage for those involved. However, determining liability in the aftermath of a taxicab incident can be challenging. Here, we want to discuss negligence as it pertains to taxicab accidents in Georgia and how these incidents differ from traditional vehicle accidents. We will also review taxicab insurance requirements in this state.
Taxicab Accidents Are Not Uncommon
Despite the increase in popularity of rideshare services throughout the state of Georgia, taxicabs are still the main modes of transportation for many individuals, particularly for those in larger cities like Atlanta. However, taxicab drivers are not immune from being involved in vehicle accidents on the roadways.
Taxicab accidents occur in a variety of ways, sometimes due to the negligence of the taxi driver and sometimes due to the negligence of another driver on the roadway. Some of the most common causes of taxicab accidents in Atlanta include drivers:
- Failing to yield the right of way to other vehicles or pedestrians
- Operating too fast for conditions
- Operating while distracted by phones or other devices
- Operating while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Failing to stop at a stop sign or stoplight
Georgia Taxicab Insurance Requirements
Taxicab drivers are required to carry corporate insurance, but that does not mean very much when it comes to vehicle accidents. The policy limits for a taxicab driver’s insurance only have to meet state minimum insurance requirements, which are the same for any other non-commercial driver on the roadway. In Georgia, this includes the following insurance minimums:
- Bodily Injury Liability Insurance of $25,000 per person
- Bodily Injury Liability Insurance of $50,000 per accident
- Property Damage Liability Insurance of $25,000 per accident
Can You Seek Compensation After a Georgia Taxicab Accident?
It is certainly possible to seek compensation if you sustain injuries or property damage in an accident involving a taxicab in Georgia. Overall, these incidents will be treated much like any other vehicle accident that occurs on our roadways. There will be an investigation to determine liability, and the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier will be responsible for paying compensation for a victim’s medical bills, property damage expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages.
One of the main challenges when it comes to filing a lawsuit against the taxicab driver is the fact that most taxi drivers are considered independent contractors. Because of this, it is very unlikely that a taxi company will hold vicarious liability for the actions of its drivers. In other words, you will be seeking compensation through the driver’s insurance carrier, not from the taxi company.
In the event a driver does work directly for the taxi company and they cause an accident while operating within the scope of their job-related duties, it may be possible to file a lawsuit against the taxi company to recover compensation. We strongly encourage you to contact a skilled Georgia car accident attorney who has experience handling taxicab accident claims. An Atlanta car accident attorney can investigate the situation and advise you on the best steps moving forward.
Please keep in mind that it is important to file these claims as soon as possible. Insurance carriers have very strict reporting deadlines, often within a day or two after the incident occurs. Additionally, the Georgia personal injury statute of limitations is two years from the date an injury occurs. This means that you have a two-year window would wish to file a lawsuit against the alleged negligent driver in order to recover compensation.