If you have ever been downtown on a busy night, you have likely seen a pedicab on the streets. These are fun for tourists and highly popular ways to get around and explore the city without the traffic and congestion. Pedicabs, however, are prone to accidents. Sometimes these accidents are due to the negligence of vehicles on the road, while other times it is because of the pedicab operator’s negligence.
Common Injuries from Pedicab Accidents
A pedicab doesn’t offer you the same level of protection that you get in a taxi cab, which means you are more exposed to vehicles, objects on the road, and even the elements. Some common injuries that can occur in these types of accidents include:
- Lacerations and severe cuts, which often require stitches – some may even require plastic surgery or reconstructive procedures.
- Traumatic brain injuries – for both passengers and the bicycle rider.
- Broken bones, fractures, and chipped bones.
- Impact injuries that may result in internal bleeding or organ damage.
Pedicab Operators are Required to be Responsible
Pedicab operators must be licensed, and they are required to follow specific safety procedures in order to ensure their passengers remain safe while in their cab. They must be licensed through the city and they cannot carry more than three passengers at one time. They also must have seatbelts inside the pedicab and refrain from entering bike lanes while on bridges and in tunnels. Most importantly, they are required to carry insurance.
What if You Are Injured in a Pedicab Accident?
If you are injured in a pedicab accident, you may have a valid claim against the pedicab operator, their employer, or the vehicle that struck the pedicab. You will need to hire an attorney to help conduct an investigation and determine fault in your case. Sometimes these cases result in more than one defendant, such as a pedicab operator as well as their employer. The circumstances of individual cases vary, and an attorney can help better assess the type of compensation you may qualify for, as well as who is at fault for your injuries.
If you have a valid claim, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
Tips for Avoiding Accidents
Pedicab accidents occur for a variety of reasons, some of which are avoidable. A pedicab driver can run a stop sign or ignore traffic signals, or a distracted driver could strike a pedicab because they were distracted and not paying attention. Pedicab drivers can avoid accidents just by obeying the rules of the road – especially those that apply strictly to pedicabs. They should always look both ways before crossing an intersection and wear a helmet. At the same time, drivers should always be on the lookout for pedicab drivers as well as pedestrians – and of course, not drive distracted.
Were You Injured in a Pedicab Accident? Contact an Attorney
If you were injured while enjoying a ride in a pedicab, or you are a pedicab driver who was injured by a motor vehicle driver, contact the personal injury attorneys at Schwartzapfel® Lawyers P.C. today. Call us to schedule a free consultation at 1-516-342-2200, or fill out an online contact form with your legal questions.
