What to Do If a Drunk Taxi Driver Causes an Accident in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling casinos, and world-class entertainment. With so many visitors relying on taxis for transportation, accidents involving taxis are unfortunately common. However, when a drunk taxi driver causes an accident, the situation becomes even more serious. Victims may face significant injuries, medical bills, and legal complexities. If you find yourself in this situation, Mainor Ellis’s Las Vegas Taxi Accident Lawyers are here to protect your rights and pursue compensation.
1. Call 911 and Report the Accident
The first and most crucial step after any accident is to call 911 immediately. Reporting the accident ensures that law enforcement arrives on the scene to assess the situation and take statements from everyone involved. If the taxi driver appears intoxicated, inform the police so they can administer field sobriety tests and a breathalyzer. A DUI charge against the driver can serve as strong evidence in your claim.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it is essential to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not present immediate symptoms. A medical record linking your injuries to the accident is also vital evidence when filing a personal injury claim.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are physically able to do so, collect as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. This includes:
- Photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries
- Videos of the taxi driver’s behavior, especially if they appear intoxicated
- Contact information for witnesses who saw the accident or the driver’s actions before the crash
- A copy of the police report, which will document any DUI charges against the taxi driver
4. Determine Liability: Who Can Be Held Responsible?
In a drunk driving taxi accident, multiple parties may be held liable, including:
- The taxi driver – for driving under the influence and causing the crash
- The taxi company – if they failed to properly screen, train, or monitor their driver
- The establishment that overserved the driver – under Nevada’s dram shop laws, bars and restaurants are typically not liable for overserving adults, but exceptions may apply in certain cases
A skilled Las Vegas taxi accident attorney can help identify all potential sources of liability and maximize your compensation.
5. File an Insurance Claim or Lawsuit
Taxi companies in Nevada are required to carry higher insurance coverage than private drivers, which may provide additional compensation for victims. However, insurance companies often try to minimize or deny claims, making it crucial to have an attorney negotiate on your behalf. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages, which punish the driver and taxi company for gross negligence
6. Consult an Experienced Taxi Accident Attorney
Navigating a claim against a taxi company and a drunk driver can be legally complex. Mainor Ellis in Las Vegas has extensive experience handling drunk driving accidents and will fight to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you move forward after a taxi accident involving a drunk driver.
Source:
dmv.nv.gov/pdfforms/qtdui.pdf
