Content reviewed by:
Alex Shulman
If you were injured in a taxi accident, you may be dealing with medical bills and time away from work. A taxi accident lawyer in Orangetown can help you pursue compensation.
Shulman & Hill helps passengers, pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers after taxi collisions throughout Orangetown and Rockland County. Our car accident lawyer in Orangetown handles injury claims, insurance negotiations, and lawsuits involving taxis, rideshare vehicles, and other commercial drivers.
Common Causes of Taxi Accidents
Traffic patterns, pickups, and drop-offs throughout Orangetown and nearby areas can create risks for taxi drivers and others on the road. Speeding, unsafe lane changes, and sudden stops often lead to collisions. Distracted driving, fatigue, and aggressive driving behavior can also contribute.
Some accidents result from poor vehicle maintenance, including brake failure or worn tires. Dooring incidents can occur when passengers exit into traffic or bike lanes. Weather conditions, road defects, and reduced visibility can further increase the risk of a crash.
Our personal injury lawyer in Orangetown can help determine how the accident occurred and identify the responsible parties.
Who Is Liable After a Taxi Crash
Liability in a taxi accident may involve multiple parties. The taxi driver may be responsible for negligent driving, while another motorist may share fault for contributing to the crash. New York’s comparative negligence law allows fault to be divided among all responsible parties.
A taxi company or vehicle owner may also be liable if the driver was working at the time of the crash. Liability may arise from negligent hiring, supervision, or maintenance. In some cases, a manufacturer or repair provider may be responsible if a defective part contributed to the accident.
What to Do After a Taxi Accident in Orangetown
Taking prompt steps after a crash can help protect your health and your claim. If possible, move to a safe area and document the scene. You should also:
- Call the police and request a report number
- Seek medical care the same day and follow your treatment plan
- Photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries
- Collect driver, vehicle, and insurance information from all parties
- Ask witnesses for names and contact details
- Keep records of medical treatment, expenses, and communications
If you are unable to gather this information, our taxi accident lawyers can investigate using available records and evidence.
New York Insurance Rules That Affect Taxi Claims
New York follows a no-fault insurance system. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) typically covers medical expenses and a portion of lost wages, regardless of fault.
If you do not have your own policy, coverage may come from the vehicle involved in the accident or another applicable policy. Taxi passengers are often covered under the taxi’s insurance.
When a taxi driver is at fault, you may pursue a liability claim against the driver and any responsible company or vehicle owner. If the at-fault party is uninsured or leaves the scene, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply.
Understanding No-Fault Coverage and the Serious Injury Threshold
PIP provides limited benefits. To recover compensation for pain and suffering, your injuries must meet New York’s serious injury threshold.
Qualifying injuries may include fractures, significant disfigurement, or conditions that limit normal daily activities for a defined period. Your ability to pursue non-economic damages depends on your medical evidence and how your injuries are classified under New York law.
Damages Available in Taxi Injury Cases
Compensation in an Orangetown taxi accident case may include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and future care needs. You may also recover lost income, reduced earning capacity, and property damage.
If your injuries meet the serious injury threshold, you may pursue non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life. In fatal cases, families may pursue wrongful death damages under New York law.
How Our Taxi Accident Lawyer in Orangetown Builds a Strong Claim
We begin with a thorough investigation, including police reports, incident records, and available video footage. Traffic cameras, nearby businesses, and other surveillance sources can provide key evidence.
We also review vehicle maintenance records, driver history, and any available electronic data. Medical records and provider documentation establish the extent of your injuries and long-term needs.
When necessary, we work with experts to analyze liability and calculate future damages.
Deadlines and Statutes in Orangetown
Most New York personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the accident. Wrongful death claims are generally subject to a two-year deadline.
Claims involving public entities may require a Notice of Claim within 90 days. Missing these deadlines can affect your ability to recover compensation.
Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and allows your case to move forward within required timelines.
Contact Our Taxi Accident Lawyer in Orangetown
If a taxi accident in Orangetown has affected your life, Shulman & Hill can help you pursue compensation under New York law. We can gather evidence, manage insurance claims, and advocate for your recovery.
Contact us today to speak with a taxi accident lawyer in Orangetown and schedule a free consultation.