Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have given cab drivers in Austin some fierce competition, and this rush to fill passenger quotas and build fares can result in serious accidents. These wrecks can cause serious damage to vehicles and moderate to serious physical injury as well, and it can be difficult to know where to begin when it comes to covering medical bills or building a lawsuit. If you were injured by an Austin cab driver, there are a few steps you can take to recoup your losses.
- Speak To the Cab Company
If you believe the cab driver was negligent and caused the accident by disobeying traffic rules or was distracted by passengers or a cell phone, the company may be responsible. However, since Austin cab drivers are considered independent contractors and not employees of the company, you may be told to sue the driver directly. The status of the driver may affect this circumstance, especially if he or she was carrying passengers or was on duty at the time of the accident. In this case, the cab company may be partially liable.
- Gather Evidence
The cab company may completely deny liability and if you plan to file a personal injury lawsuit, gathering proof of negligence can help strengthen your case. Police reports, witness accounts and the findings of your insurance inspector may all help prove that the cab driver was at fault. If he or she was ticketed at the scene and you were not, this may also support your claims that the other driver was negligent.
- Document Your Injuries
If you were injured in the cab accident, track your injuries carefully and ask your doctors to create detailed reports of what kind of care was administered after the incident and if any future medical treatment will be necessary, such as physical therapy. The more detailed the reports, the stronger your case might be.
- Speak To a Lawyer
Reaching out to an attorney about your cab accident may help you to better understand your options for filing a lawsuit. He or she can also represent you in court, speak to witnesses to gather further evidence and file the paperwork necessary to formally file the case. You may want to bring a list of questions to your initial consultation to ensure all your concerns are addressed.
Being involved in an accident with an Austin cab driver can cause thousands of dollars in property damage and severe injury, but you do have options for recouping your losses. Contact a car accident attorney in Deltona, FL, like David & Philpot, P.L., to learn more.