Philadelphia Accident Lawyers Help Victims Involved in Taxi, Car Service and Uber Accidents Understand Their Rights and Win Full Restitution
Keeping Up With the Legal Ramifications of Recent Transportation Trends for more Than Three Decades
Public transportation is a constantly evolving phenomenon as consumers continually look for the latest and fastest way to get where they’re going. Over the past few decades, taxicabs, limousine car services and most recently Uber and Lyft have become popular methods of transportation. Taxis and car services are subject to strict state regulations, but Uber and Lyft have discovered a way to operate around existing laws that has led to intense debate across the country. If you are injured in an accident, either as a passenger or another driver, you have legal rights to compensation regardless of what type of transportation method is involved. At McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC, our Philadelphia motor vehicle accident attorneys work hard to keep up with changes in the law to ensure that you get the most accurate advice and full-service representation you deserve.
Taxi Drivers are Subject to Enhanced Screening and Licensing Procedures
It is relatively easy for anyone to obtain a standard driver’s license; however, to be considered a legal taxi company and/or driver you must comply with additional regulations. The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has enacted several standards for taxicab companies and requires that all companies:
- Charge approved fares based on meter readings, mileage, or flat rates
- Keep vehicles clean and sanitary
- Maintain proper insurance coverage
- Maintain vehicles in accordance with Pennsylvania equipment and inspection standards
- Post rates inside the vehicle
- Provide receipts to customers upon request
- Post the name of the company, PUC number and vehicle number on the outside of the car
In addition to these standards, taxicab drivers are required to obtain a taxi driver’s certificate. Certified taxi drivers must pass a criminal history and driver history check within 60 days before applying for a certificate.
Uber is Not Subject to the Same Regulations as Taxi Companies or Car Services
In 2009, Uber launched as the first ride-sharing company operated primarily by smartphones. Instead of calling for a cab or reserving a car service to pick you up at the airport. Passengers can now use their smartphone to find an Uber driver that is usually just moments away. Uber is now a billion-dollar business operating in more than 50 countries and 200 cities throughout the world. Unlike other transportation companies, Uber is not subject to legislative regulations governing drivers, rates and insurance among other things. In January 2015, the PUC granted Uber a two-year license for experimental service throughout the state, excluding Philadelphia. Uber is currently operating illegally in Philadelphia. Many states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware, are in the process of trying to pass Uber regulations. Regardless of this, you still have legal rights if you’re injured in an accident.
Whether you’ve been involved in an accident with a taxi, limousine or Uber driver, our Philadelphia accident lawyers are ready to help you recover the compensation you deserve for lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering.
Turn to the Philadelphia Accident Lawyers at McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC for Answers to All of Your Questions About Taxicab, Car Service and Uber Liability
Car accidents are a devastating experience that often leaves victims with significant injuries and expenses. At McCann Dillon Jaffe & Lamb, LLC, our accident injury attorneys are ready to guide you through the legal process to achieve the best possible results for your situation. Call us at 215-569-8488 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. Our highly skilled and knowledgeable Philadelphia accident lawyers represent clients who have suffered harm in taxi, car service and Uber accidents in Pennsylvania including Philadelphia, Chester County, Delaware County and Montgomery County as well as in New Jersey and Delaware.