How Often Do Taxi Crashes Occur in Nevada?
Recently, the Nevada Taxi Cab Authority has started to record data regarding taxi incidents. For example, in their March 2024 report, the Nevada Taxi Cab Authority reported 258 accidents involving a taxi. That is out of 2,993 total taxi cabs in service throughout the state, meaning there was approximately one reported accident for every 12 taxis in service that month.
Common Causes of Taxi Accidents in Las Vegas
In Las Vegas, taxi accidents are caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common include:
- Distracted driving,
- Navigational errors,
- Speeding and aggressive driving,
- Driving under the influence,
- Abrupt turns or stops, and
- Poor training.
These accidents are especially common when large events occur in Las Vegas. Whether it’s a championship game, a concert, or some other celebration, taxi accidents are usually close behind.
Why Las Vegas Taxi Cab Accidents Are Different from Regular Car Collisions
Las Vegas taxi cab accidents present unique challenges and legal nuances. Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone involved in this type of accident, whether a taxi passenger or a driver in another car.
Insurance Requirements
Taxi cabs are subject to specific insurance requirements exceeding personal vehicle requirements. According to Nevada law, all taxi cabs must carry a minimum amount of liability insurance, including:
- $250,000 for bodily injury or death of one person in any one accident;
- $500,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons in any one accident; and
- $50,000 for property damage in any one accident.
While this might make it possible to obtain more compensation, navigating the claims process can be challenging due to the complexities of commercial insurance policies and the vigorous defense often mounted by insurers looking to minimize their payouts.
Additionally, there are exceptions to these requirements, which may complicate the claims process. For example, a taxi cab driver can personally insure as long as it meets the same liability amounts listed above. This could be in the form of an auto insurance policy or a bond.
Driver Regulations
The state of Nevada also imposes stringent requirements on taxi drivers to enhance passenger safety. In fact, Nevada law doesn’t allow taxi companies to hire a driver unless that driver has a valid:
- Taxi operator’s permit,
- Medical examiner’s certificate, and
- Nevada driver’s license.
The aim is to ensure drivers are competent and safe to operate in a busy tourist environment like Las Vegas. However, not all taxi cab operators follow these rules at all times. In the event of an accident, these regulations play a critical role in determining liability and negligence. Failure to comply with these standards may impact the outcome of a claim or lawsuit. That is why speaking with a knowledgeable Nevada taxi accident lawyer following an accident is important.
Liability
While liability in an accident depends on the circumstances, there are a number of parties who could be responsible. For example, if you are a taxi passenger and your taxi driver’s negligence leads to a crash, the taxi company could be liable. This could also be the case if you are in your personal vehicle and are hit by a negligent cab driver.
However, not all accidents are clear-cut. There are times when a crash may be caused by something less obvious, such as:
- Poor road maintenance,
- Inadequate taxi maintenance, or
- A manufacturing defect with a vehicle.
Since these are always possible, we recommend contacting a Las Vegas taxi accident atorney. At Friedman Injury Law, we thoroughly investigate the accident to determine the root cause, especially in cases where it isn’t obvious.
Attorney Blake Friedman Is Here to Help
Dealing with any accident is stressful, but a taxi collision is even more complex. If you need help, Friedman Injury Law is here to assist you. Attorney Blake Friedman is a second-generation personal injury lawyer and has recovered tens of millions for clients. He works with clients one-on-one from beginning to end, offering a personalized experience.
To schedule a free consultation with Las Vegas taxi injury lawyer Blake Friedman, give us a call or fill out our online form.
