Many New Yorkers use taxis every day to travel around the city, and it may not occur to them that they could be hurt in something they use so regularly. However, accidents involving taxis occur and can cause serious injuries and even fatalities, for passengers, drivers and pedestrians.
Common taxi accidents
There are several situations where a taxi accident can occur. The most common cause is driver error, including distracted driving when the driver is texting, talking on the phone or adjusting the radio.
Reckless driving can also contribute to taxi accidents. If the driver is speeding, running red lights or making illegal turns, that can also cause a serious accident.
Sometimes, taxi drivers may be in a rush to reach a location quickly or to pick up more passengers, which can also lead to an accident. There are also environmental factors, like bad weather conditions and poor road conditions or uneven potholes that can injure a passenger, pedestrian or the driver.
Injuries
The severity of injuries can vary based on the accident. Passengers can suffer from whiplash, which happens when the person’s neck is forcefully snapped back and forth. Head injuries can also occur and can range from a minor cut to a severe traumatic brain injury. This can happen if a person hits their head on a hard surface during the accident.
Broken bones and spine injuries are also common. In addition to physical injuries, passengers can suffer from emotional trauma, anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.
If a person has been hurt in a taxi accident, they may be entitled to compensation.