People generally hire taxis for rides when they are unfamiliar with an area, unable to drive due to illness or are otherwise without other means of transportation. Cabs are a convenient solution for those who need ground transportation around Minneapolis.
Taxi drivers are usually relatively safe, even if they are somewhat notorious for driving aggressively. However, crashes can occur, even with the most experienced driver at the wheel. If passengers in taxis end up injured because of a crash, who covers their expenses?
The taxi driver
In some cases, the taxi driver may be liable for a wreck. Particularly when the driver is an independent contractor, they may be responsible for any injuries that passengers sustain due to their negligent decisions or violations of traffic statutes. Taxi drivers should have insurance, possibly carried by their employers, that can cover collision costs.
The other driver
Taxi collisions may occur due to the fault of another party, not the taxi operator. In such circumstances, the driver who caused the crash may be liable for the costs generated.
The taxi company
If vehicle maintenance, negligent hiring practices or similar issues contributed to the situation, then the taxi company may potentially be liable for the crash. Employers may be liable for the negligence of direct-hire employees as well.
Occasionally, outside parties could also be partially liable. Municipal authorities could be responsible in cases where infrastructure failures cause taxi collisions. Manufacturers could be responsible in cases related to defective vehicle components.
Reviewing what happened before and during a taxi cab collision with a skilled legal team can help injured passengers understand their options. Those injured after paying for a ride may have the right to file an insurance claim or possibly even a lawsuit.