Taxi Cab Accident Attorneys in Sacramento

Taxi Cab Accidents in Sacramento

According to Sacramento County officials, more than 15 million people visit the county each year. This is an astonishing number compared to other counties in California. With many people visiting year-round, demand for rideshare services and taxis has increased. Many people choose not to rent a car or drive their own when visiting Sacramento County. Instead, they opt for other alternative convenient services such as Uber, Lyft, or taxis.

But this also increases the likelihood of being involved in a taxi accident. If you or a loved one has been injured while riding in a taxi or by another vehicle driven by a taxi driver, you have the right to hold the negligent party responsible. This means that under California law, you have the right to file a lawsuit against the party who caused the accident. However, several factors depend on the circumstances of the accident.

Our Sacramento legal team has decades of experience representing car accident victims. We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for our clients, ensuring that we hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions. 

Taxi accidents can be complex, especially when determining liability. We recommend contacting us as soon as possible so we can begin work on your case. This also generally applies to car accidents, as many cars and evidence may not be available months after the accident.

Types Of Taxis In Sacramento

Since Sacramento offers several venues, restaurants, and campgrounds for tourists, taxis serve groups of different sizes. For example, below are the various types of taxis that you could encounter in Sacramento:

• Standard taxis: these are the standard four-door sedan taxis you can see in any other country.
• Luxury taxis: typically used by business travelers, especially groups of employees traveling to Sacramento. This is most commonly seen near the Sacramento Convention Center and downtown Sacramento.
• SUV taxis: Most commonly used by families visiting Sacramento and large groups.
• Wheelchair-accessible taxis: these are taxis that are accessible to people in wheelchairs and are slightly larger than standard taxis.
• Rideshare taxi: privately owned vehicles that are used for services, such as Uber and Lyft. Uber and Lyft allow passengers to book rides through their apps.
• Green taxis: recently, there has been an increase in the number of environmentally friendly electric taxis around the county.
• Taxi shuttles: Taxi shuttles are most commonly seen near Sacramento International Airport, especially when transporting multiple travelers to and from various destinations with heavy luggage.

Given the range of needs, there are various types of taxis to rent and book. If you have been injured in any of the above taxis listed, you have the right to get compensated for the damages that you have suffered.

Can I Receive Compensation for My Taxi Accident Injuries?

If you’ve been injured in a taxi accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your losses. The amount and type of damages you can claim depend on the specific circumstances of the accident, including who was at fault, the severity of your injuries, and the impact on your daily life.

A taxi accident attorney can file claims that involve passengers, drivers, pedestrians, or other motorists. Because each case is unique, the compensation you receive will vary based on your injuries and financial losses.

Common Types of Compensation in Taxi Accident Cases

Depending on your situation, you may be eligible to recover the following types of damages:

1. Economic Damages

These are measurable financial losses that result directly from your accident:

• Lost wages: Compensation for income missed during recovery.
• Lost future income: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or working full-time.
• Loss of earning capacity: When your ability to earn money is permanently reduced.
• Property damage: Repairs or replacement for your vehicle or personal items damaged in the accident.

2. Medical Expenses

You may also recover costs related to your medical care:

• Hospital stay expenses
• Prescription medication
• Surgical procedures
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Medical equipment (braces, crutches, wheelchairs, etc.)

Common Causes Of Taxi Accidents In Sacramento:

• DUI-related accidents are among the most common motor-vehicle accidents in Sacramento County. If a passenger realizes their driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they should alert the proper company and leave the car.
• Speeding is another common cause of taxi accidents in Sacramento. Speeding increases the force a vehicle exerts in a collision with another car. When speeding, drivers do not have enough time to come to a complete stop or slow down if a road hazard is present. Speeding accidents also involve pedestrian accidents.
• Distracted driving is specifically very common among taxi drivers. Taxi drivers frequently check their devices for potential future rides while driving their current passengers. This is a very risky activity, and could lead to fatalities.

What should I do after a taxi accident in Sacramento?

You should take specific steps to stay calm and ensure you have taken the necessary actions to file a lawsuit. You should follow the steps below: 

• Contact the Sacramento Police Department. When a Sacramento Police Officer arrives at the scene, they may take notes on the taxi accident, including where it occurred, the parties involved, and who they believe is responsible.
• Get medical treatment: Usually, those involved in taxi accidents sustain severe injuries, especially passengers of a taxi.
• Exchange information with the other parties involved in the accident: Ensure you have the other drivers’ and passengers’ contact information. Important information includes full name, address, phone number, and insurance information.
• Contact an experienced Sacramento taxi accident attorney. You should hire someone who has handled past Sacramento motor vehicle accidents. The attorney should be knowledgeable about all applicable local and state laws in Sacramento. An experienced attorney will investigate the circumstances of the taxi accident to determine exactly which party was responsible and the compensation that you may need.

How to Prevent a Taxi Accident: Safety Tips for Every Passenger

When you step into a taxi, your safety should always come first. While most rides are safe and routine, being proactive can help you avoid dangerous situations. Below are practical steps you can take to prevent taxi accidents and ensure a smooth, secure journey.

1. Always Wear Your Seatbelt

This is the simplest yet most effective safety measure. Whether sitting in the front or back seat, fasten your seatbelt as soon as you enter the vehicle. Seatbelts significantly reduce the risk of serious injury in case of sudden stops or collisions.

2. Assess the Driver’s Condition

If you notice that your driver seems impaired by alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, ask to end the trip immediately. Politely request that the individual exit the vehicle to a safe location. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it’s better to be cautious.

3. Address Distracted Driving

Drivers who text or talk on the phone while driving are putting everyone at risk. If your driver appears distracted, speak up respectfully. You can say, “Could you please focus on the road? I feel safer when you’re not using your phone.”

4. Avoid Late-Night Taxi Rides

Whenever possible, avoid taking taxis late at night, especially in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Nighttime driving increases accident risk due to reduced visibility, fatigue, and higher rates of impaired driving.

5. Skip Taxi Rides During Poor Weather

Rain, snow, or fog can make roads slippery and reduce visibility for both drivers and pedestrians. If possible, delay your trip or use a safer mode of transportation when weather conditions are severe.

Contact A Sacramento Taxi Accident Attorney Today

Sacramento is also known for having several aggressive drivers on the road. This is especially true for taxi drivers, who face time constraints for arriving at a specific location. This places significant pressure on drivers and increases the likelihood of taxi accidents. 

Frequently Asked Questions