Hit by a Taxi in New York City? Your Complete Guide to Taxi Accident Claims and Legal Help
Were you hit by a taxi in New York City? Taxi accidents in NYC can cause serious injuries, overwhelming medical bills, and complex legal challenges. Whether you’re a pedestrian, cyclist, passenger, or driver, knowing your rights and the steps to take after a taxi accident is crucial.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we specialize in helping New Yorkers injured in taxi and rideshare accidents recover maximum compensation. This guide explains everything you need to know about NYC taxi accident claims, liability, insurance, and how a trusted New York City taxi accident lawyer can help you win your case.
What to Do If You Were Injured in a New York City Taxi Accident
If you’ve been hurt in a taxi accident in NYC, follow these essential steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Call 911 Immediately and Get Emergency Medical Care
Even if injuries seem minor, call 911 for police and medical help. A police report and early medical documentation strengthen your injury claim. - Document the Accident Scene Thoroughly
Take photos of:- The taxi’s medallion number and license plate
- Vehicle damage and positions
- Road signs, skid marks, and traffic lights
- Your injuries and surrounding conditions
- Collect Witness Contact Information
Get names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the crash to support your case. - Report the Accident to Insurance and the DMV
File a DMV MV-104 report within 10 days and notify your insurance or the taxi’s insurer within 30 days to preserve your no-fault benefits. - Preserve All Evidence
Keep medical records, ride receipts, damaged property, and any digital evidence like app screenshots. - Speak to a New York City Taxi Accident Lawyer Before Giving Statements
Avoid talking to insurance adjusters or the taxi company without legal counsel. A lawyer will protect your rights and help build your case.
Who Is Liable in a New York City Taxi Accident?
Liability in NYC taxi crashes can be complex. Potentially responsible parties include:
- Taxi Drivers who were speeding, distracted, fatigued, or negligent.
- Taxi Companies or Medallion Owners responsible for poor vehicle maintenance or negligent hiring.
- Other Drivers or Third Parties involved in multi-vehicle crashes or hazardous road conditions.
- Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers if defective equipment caused the crash.
New York law holds employers liable for employee drivers acting within the scope of their work.
New York City Taxi Accident Insurance: What You Need to Know
New York City taxis and rideshares must carry specific insurance:
- Yellow Medallion Taxis carry minimum liability of $100,000 per person and $300,000 per accident, plus $200,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) for passengers and pedestrians.
- Rideshare Vehicles (Uber, Lyft) maintain up to $1.25 million in liability during active trips.
- Unlicensed Cabs (“Gypsy” Cabs) may have only the state minimum or no insurance, complicating claims.
New York’s no-fault insurance law allows injured parties to recover medical bills and lost wages quickly through PIP benefits, regardless of fault.
When Can You File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Taxi Accident in NYC?
You can file a lawsuit if your injuries meet New York’s “serious injury” threshold under Insurance Law § 5102(d). Qualifying injuries include:
- Bone fractures or disfigurement
- Loss of a body part or function
- Injuries preventing daily activities for 90 of 180 days after the crash
- Death or loss of a fetus
The statute of limitations for taxi accident personal injury claims in NYC is generally 3 years from the accident date.
Common Injuries from Taxi and Rideshare Accidents in NYC
Injuries in NYC taxi accidents often include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
- Broken Bones and Fractures
- Internal Organ Damage
- Whiplash and Neck Trauma
- Lacerations and Road Rash
- Amputations or Permanent Disability
How Much Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of NYC taxi accidents may recover:
- Economic Damages: Medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and property damage.
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP for Your NYC Taxi Accident Case?
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we are dedicated to taxi accident injury claims in New York City with:
- No fees unless we win your case (Contingency fee basis)
- Offices in Harlem, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County
- Bilingual staff to serve NYC’s diverse communities
- Recognized as Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers
- Proven track record negotiating with insurance companies and litigating complex cases
Contact a Trusted New York City Taxi Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a taxi or rideshare accident in NYC, don’t wait. Time is critical to preserve evidence and meet strict legal deadlines.
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) now for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced New York City taxi accident attorney at Greenstein & Pittari, LLP.
Get the compensation you deserve—medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.