NYC Taxi Accident Lawyer
Fighting for taxi passengers and accident victims throughout New York City
Experienced NYC Taxi Accident Representation
New York City has over 13,000 yellow taxis operating on its streets. While taxis provide essential transportation for millions of passengers, taxi accidents are unfortunately common. Whether you're a taxi passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, or driver in another vehicle, a taxi accident can result in serious injuries.
Taxi accident cases involve unique legal considerations. Taxis are regulated by the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC), and drivers must carry specific insurance coverage. Understanding who is liable—the taxi driver, the taxi company, or another driver—requires thorough investigation and legal expertise.
Gammons Injury and Malpractice Lawyers, P.C. has extensive experience handling taxi accident cases throughout all five boroughs. We investigate accidents, deal with insurance companies, and fight to recover maximum compensation for injured passengers, pedestrians, and other accident victims.
Common Causes of Taxi Accidents
Distracted Driving
Taxi drivers using GPS, accepting fares, or texting while driving
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Racing to get more fares or driving aggressively in heavy traffic
Failure to Yield
Not yielding to pedestrians, running red lights, or improper turns
Sudden Stops
Abruptly stopping to pick up passengers without proper warning
Fatigued Driving
Driving long shifts without adequate rest leading to impaired judgment
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Brake failures, tire blowouts, or other mechanical issues due to inadequate maintenance
Types of Taxi Accident Cases We Handle
Passenger Injuries
Injuries to taxi passengers caused by the taxi driver's negligence, another driver's negligence, or sudden stops and starts.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians struck by taxis while crossing streets, sidewalks, or crosswalks throughout NYC.
Collisions with Other Vehicles
Multi-vehicle accidents involving taxis and other cars, trucks, motorcycles, or bicycles.
Door Accidents
Cyclists or pedestrians struck by taxi doors opening into traffic lanes without warning.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Taxi Accident?
The Taxi Driver
If the taxi driver was negligent—speeding, distracted driving, running red lights, or violating traffic laws—they can be held personally liable for injuries and damages.
The Taxi Company or Owner
Taxi companies and medallion owners can be liable for hiring unqualified drivers, inadequate training, failing to conduct proper background checks, or poor vehicle maintenance.
Other Drivers
If another driver caused the accident—rear-ending the taxi, running a red light, or driving recklessly—they can be held liable for resulting injuries.
NYC or Government Entities
If dangerous road conditions, inadequate signage, or poorly maintained traffic signals contributed to the accident, government entities may share liability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is liable in a taxi accident in NYC?
Liability depends on how the accident occurred. The taxi driver may be liable for negligent driving. The taxi company can be held responsible for driver negligence, inadequate training, or vehicle maintenance failures. Other drivers may also be at fault if they caused the collision. Multiple parties can share liability.
What if I was a passenger in the taxi when the accident happened?
As a passenger, you're entitled to compensation regardless of which driver caused the accident. You can file a claim against the taxi driver's insurance, the other driver's insurance, or both. New York's no-fault insurance provides immediate medical coverage, and you can pursue additional damages if you suffered serious injuries.
Are Uber and Lyft considered taxis?
No, Uber and Lyft are rideshare services with different insurance requirements and legal considerations. While similar accidents occur, rideshare companies have specific insurance policies that apply depending on whether the driver was waiting for a ride request, en route to a passenger, or had a passenger in the vehicle.
How long do I have to file a taxi accident lawsuit in New York?
Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if you're suing the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission or another government entity, you may need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days. Contact an attorney immediately.
What compensation can I recover from a taxi accident?
You may recover medical expenses, future medical care, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, property damage, and in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship. The amount depends on injury severity and available insurance coverage.
Why Choose Gammons Injury and Malpractice Lawyers, P.C.?
NYC Taxi Accident Experience
We understand NYC taxi regulations, TLC requirements, and the unique insurance issues involved in taxi accident cases.
Thorough Investigation
We obtain police reports, taxi company records, driver history, vehicle maintenance records, and witness statements to build strong cases.
Deal With Insurance Companies
Taxi and insurance companies have teams of lawyers. We level the playing field and fight for maximum compensation.
No Fees Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Injured in a Taxi Accident? Call Now
Don't let the taxi company's insurance adjuster minimize your injuries. Contact us for a free consultation. Available Available 24/7.