How many times have you driven with a friend or loved one to an event or family gathering? What about a weekend road trip with your best friend? Most people have grabbed a ride home with a co-worker once or twice. We don’t think much about hopping in the car with another driver. It’s something people do every day.
But, what happens if you are the innocent passenger and injured in an accident? What rights do you have? How should you proceed in order to receive adequate compensation for your injuries?
Although it’s protocol for passengers to file a claim against the insurance company of the driver who caused the car accident, passengers are often reluctant to file the claim if the person they file against is a close friend or family member. Unfortunately, there are often large costs involved in accidents. When filing a claim, you have to remember it’s not a reflection of how you feel about the driver. You want to ensure the other person’s insurance company pays for your medical expenses, the pain and suffering incurred, permanent disability, loss of work wages, pension contributions and any other financial expenses directly attributable to your accident. The amount of compensation you receive depends on the individual circumstances of the accident.
As the passenger, the actions that take place following an accident will vary depending on the reason for the car accident and the severity of the injuries sustained by you, the driver, and/or other passengers in the vehicle. In many cases, passengers often sustain more severe injuries than drivers because they do not always have the opportunity to brace themselves prior to impact.
If you are seriously injured, seek medical attention first. Your health is most important! Next, collect names, addresses and insurance details of all parties involved in the accident. Once your injuries have been addressed and information has been exchanged, the case is ready to be settled. Next, the passenger, or preferably, a qualified personal injury lawyer, will negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Insurance companies will try to speed up the process by settling quickly. It is best if you do not communicate directly with an insurance company before speaking with a qualified legal expert.
Car accidents involving passengers are often under-settled. By seeking legal advice, you have a much greater chance of receiving full payment for your injuries and losses. Each case is unique. The lawyers at Eason & Tambornini, A Law Corporation, will guide you through the complex process so you receive full compensation for your injuries.
