Taxi Accidents in Phoenix

Hailing a taxi allows you to leave the driving to a professional and avoid the trouble of navigating traffic and finding parking. However, taxi accidents in Phoenix can be dangerous.

If you have suffered an injury due to a cab driver’s negligence, having the guidance of an experienced car crash attorney at Elmm Law Group could make a profound difference in the outcome of your claim.

Are Cab Drivers Commercial Drivers?

You pay cab drivers to transport you from one place to another. This makes them professional drivers, and each is required to carry a commercial driver’s license. As a result, you trust taxi drivers to have the experience and skill to get you where you need to be.

Negligence in Taxi Accidents

Driving is an immense responsibility, especially for those behind the wheel of a taxi. Several factors can increase the risk of accidents for cab drivers, including:

• Spending long hours behind the wheel can contribute to drowsy driving
• Being required to enter and exit traffic often, locate passengers outside their taxis, and make frequent stops
• Being paid according to the number of rides they complete, which can pressure some drivers to ignore safety rules
• Interacting with their dispatchers to pick up fares and complete their shifts, which can lead to distraction
• Attempting to drive a cab while under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Often, cab crashes in Phoenix result from the negligence of taxi drivers. Negligence comes in many forms; here is a closer look at some of the most common ones:

Impairment

When it comes to commercial drivers, the law has less tolerance for impairment. Alcohol decreases inhibitions and decision-making capacity, increases impulsivity, and impairs coordination and judgment. These are obvious risk factors for cab drivers.

Speeding

The higher the taxi driver’s speed, the more likely they are to cause an accident, and the more likely the accident is to be deadly. The posted speed limit is the maximum speed allowed under ideal conditions. Cab drivers, just like all drivers, must adjust their speed in response to what is happening on the road. This includes taking into careful consideration traffic conditions, adverse weather effects, and issues related to the road’s overall condition.

Distracted Driving

When a taxi driver shifts their attention away from their primary task, which is driving safely, they are far more likely to cause an accident. While there are many potential distractions, texting is among the most dangerous.

In the five seconds it takes to read or send a text, a cab driver travels about the length of a football field when driving at 55 miles per hour. This creates a serious risk of accidents.

Failure to Yield the Right of Way

Failing to yield the right of way sets the stage for dangerous accidents. When taxicab drivers fail to yield—as the law requires when changing lanes, turning, or merging—it can lead to life-threatening taxi accidents.

Holding Taxi Drivers and Companies Accountable

Taxi companies in Phoenix may also bear direct responsibility for cab-related crashes. Often, this relates to their failure to hire responsible drivers or maintain a safe fleet. Pushing their drivers to overperform can also play a role.

Regardless of whether negligence lies with the taxi driver, the taxi company, or both, you could follow the same procedure. This involves working closely with a skilled accident lawyer and filing your claim with the taxi company’s insurance provider.

Contact an Attorney in Phoenix After Being Involved in a Taxi Collision

Contact Elmm Law Group and speak with an experienced lawyer who has the legal skills and drive to help guide your claim toward a beneficial resolution that upholds your rights.

Learn more about the legal steps you can take after a taxi accident in Phoenix by contacting us online or calling our firm today to schedule a free consultation.