NY Taxi Accidents

Taxis are used frequently throughout the state of New York, especially in New York City. At an average of 1.4 people per trip, the total comes to 172 million taxi trips last year, or 470,000 trips per day. Considering that the numbers are so high, it’s no surprise that taxi accidents happen frequently.

In New York City, taxi accidents involving other vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other objects occur approximately 11 times per day. According to a study by Schaller Consulting, 70 percent of the 4,300 taxi accidents reported in 1999 resulted in injury or death. The rate of injury is considerably higher than that of regular passenger autos because it is common for taxi passengers to not wear their seatbelts.

Here are some statistics based on information gathered from a recent 12-month period:

• Taxi accidents occur much more frequently in Manhattan than in the other four boroughs of New York.
• Four pedestrians were killed in crashes involving taxi cabs; 538 were injured.
• 282 bicyclists were injured in accidents involving taxi cabs.
• 11.5 percent of back-seat taxi passengers involving in taxi accidents suffered from Class A or Class B injuries. These injuries included concussions, fractures, bleeding, burns, internal injuries, contusions, and abrasions.

If you are involved in a taxi accident there are certain things to be done, and certain information that should be gathered.  First, be sure to document as much information as possible, including the taxi driver’s name and telephone number, the taxi registration number, and the name and telephone number of the taxi company for which the driver works.  This information could be beneficial should your accident need legal attention.  Also, take down the name and contact information of any other drivers involved in the accident and any witnesses.  Take pictures at the scene of the accident if possible.

It is true that accidents will always happen. However, some accidents occur due to negligence and can be prevented.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a taxi cab, contact a qualified personal injury lawyer today to help ensure your rights are protected.

Call us at (877) 625-4473 or fill out our online contact form.

These Hubs are provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Professional legal counsel should be sought for specific advice relevant to your circumstances.