Taxi accidents can cause physical, emotional, and financial devastation. Whether on the busy streets of the Loop, along Lake Shore Drive, or in traffic near O’Hare, these accidents can occur in an instant, but they can have lifelong impacts. When someone else’s negligence causes that accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
The team at Hale & Monico proudly protects the rights of injured Chicagoans as they seek justice and fair compensation. Contact us today to learn more.
Why Choose Hale & Monico as Your Taxi Accident Lawyers?
Choosing a law firm to represent you can be one of the biggest decisions you make in your taxi accident case. Here are some of the advantages you’ll receive when you choose Hale & Monico:
- Extensive Experience: Our team has successfully handled a wide range of taxi accident cases, and we have vast trial experience, so you can rest assured that your case is in capable hands.
- A Substantial Track Record: We’ve recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for victims of taxi accidents, and we’re prepared to fight for the outcome you deserve.
- Local Insight: We know Chicago’s roadways, court systems, and community, which gives us a distinct advantage when we’re building a compelling case for maximum compensation.
- A Unique Approach to Personal Injury Cases: No two taxi accident cases are the same, which means there is no one-size-fits-all approach. We consider the unique circumstances of your case, and we’ll take an unconventional approach to building your claim if it can help you achieve your desired outcome.
- No Fees Unless We Win: Our clients often come to us facing significant financial distress due to the accident. You won’t face further strain just to receive the representation you need. You pay nothing up front, and we won’t charge you anything in legal fees unless we win.
Common Causes of Taxi Accidents
Chicago taxi accidents occur in various ways, many of them due to negligence. Here are some of the most common causes our personal injury attorneys see:
- Distracted driving
- Driver fatigue from long hours
- Impaired driving
- Failure to yield
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Mechanical defects
- Poor road conditions
Determining the cause of the accident is critical for establishing liability. Our team will investigate the accident to determine how it happened and who might be responsible, then build a compelling case for maximum compensation.
Common Taxi Accident Injuries
Taxi crash injuries can range from “minor” to severe, but any one of them can have a significant impact on your ability to earn a living and enjoy your daily life. Some of the most common injuries from taxi accidents include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal injuries and organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Psychological injuries like anxiety and PTSD
Who Can Be Liable for a Taxi Accident?
Liability in taxi accidents can be complicated, and sometimes, they involve multiple liable parties at once. Potentially responsible parties include:
- The taxi driver
- The taxi company or medallion license holder
- The vehicle owner
- A manufacturer or parts supplier
- A government entity (if road conditions were a factor)
- Another negligent motorist
Chicago’s medallion and licensing structure means a medallion holder or company can be held liable if they fail to maintain vehicles or properly screen drivers. Determining which parties are liable requires prompt investigation of city records, taxi vehicle maintenance logs, and dispatch records.
What Compensation Might Be Available?
Compensation for taxi accidents accounts for the financial losses and the physical and emotional damage caused by the accident and their injuries. Your Chicago taxi accident lawyer will likely seek compensation for the following on your behalf:
Medical Expenses
Medical costs following a taxi accident can be financially devastating. The liable party may be responsible for ambulance services, ER visits, surgeries, doctor’s appointments, prescription medications, medical devices, physical therapy and rehabilitation, and future medical costs related to your injuries.
Lost Wages
If you missed any time at work or you’re unable to return due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost wages. That includes hourly wages or salary, missed raises or promotions, sick days, vacation time, medical benefits, and future lost wages if you cannot return to work or suffer an income reduction due to your injury.
Pain and Suffering
The physical pain and mental anguish of a taxi accident can often be the most devastating consequences of all. Pain and suffering compensation seeks to account for these significant losses.
Emotional Distress
Taxi accident victims commonly experience mental health struggles, including acute stress reaction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. The liable party may be responsible for these damages.
What Is the Statute of Limitations on Taxi Accidents?
Under Illinois law, you typically have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to recover compensation through the court system. Act quickly and hire an experienced car accident lawyer.
How an Experienced Chicago Taxi Accident Lawyer Can Help
Working with a skilled Chicago taxi accident attorney can take the burden of pursuing your claim off of you so you can focus on recovery. Our attorneys can help by:
- Reviewing Your Case for Free: Before pursuing your case, you must determine whether the taxi accident constitutes a valid personal injury claim. Our attorneys can sit down with you, review your case, and inform you of your legal options free of charge.
- Investigating the Accident: Taxi accident claims can involve complicated liability issues. We’ll investigate the accident to determine who caused it and gather evidence to hold them accountable.
- Handling Insurance Communications: Insurance companies will fight to protect their profits by weakening your claim and minimizing your payout. We’ll counter their tactics and fight for maximum compensation.
- Negotiating and Litigating: Whether at the negotiating table or in the courtroom, we’ll advocate aggressively for your best interests.
Contact a Chicago Taxi Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve suffered injuries in a taxi accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you need an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your rights. The team at Hale & Monico offers compassion, understanding, and tenacious representation as you seek justice for your injuries. Contact us today for your free consultation.