If a taxi driver hits your car is it the drivers insurance or owners that covers accident?

When a taxi driver is in an accident while providing a taxi service, the taxi company's insurance coverage might be held liable for the incident, but the specific coverage and liability may depend on various factors such as the company's insurance policies, company regulations, and local transportation regulations. Here are some general points to consider:

Taxi Company's Insurance:

1. Commercial Auto Insurance: Taxi companies usually carry commercial auto insurance policies that provide liability coverage for accidents involving their taxi vehicles. This insurance typically covers damages to other vehicles, injuries to passengers, and property damage caused by the negligence of the taxi driver.

2. Umbrella Insurance: In addition to commercial auto insurance, some taxi companies might also have umbrella insurance policies that offer additional liability coverage beyond the limits of the primary auto policy.

Taxi Driver's Personal Insurance:

1. Personal Auto Insurance: Taxi drivers might also have personal auto insurance policies for their own vehicles. However, these policies usually don't cover incidents that occur while the driver is providing taxi services, as the taxi company's commercial insurance should apply in such cases.

2. Gap Coverage: Some personal auto insurance policies might include gap coverage, which helps bridge the gap between the actual cash value of a damaged taxi and the amount owed on the vehicle's loan or lease.

Owner vs. Driver:

In most cases, it is the taxi company's insurance that covers the accident, not the owner's personal insurance. The taxi company is ultimately responsible for the taxi's operation, including its safety and maintenance. Thus, the company's insurance would generally be responsible for covering the damages resulting from an accident caused by the taxi driver.

However, the specific liability and coverage may vary depending on the taxi company's insurance policy, the driver's employment status (whether they are an employee or an independent contractor), the taxi's ownership structure (who is the legal owner of the vehicle), and any applicable state laws or regulations governing taxi services.

If you are involved in an accident with a taxi, you may want to contact the taxi company's insurance company to inquire about their coverage and process for filing a claim. Additionally, you may wish to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you understand your legal rights and options.