If you’re a passenger in an auto accident, you may be able to pursue multiple people depending on who was at-fault. You may have a claim against the driver of the vehicle you were in, the driver of another vehicle who caused the accident or even both.
You Can Also File an Injury Claim With Your Own Insurance Company
If the at-fault party is uninsured or under-insured (which means he or she does not have enough coverage to fully compensate your injuries) you may be able to pursue a claim against your own insurance company if you have uninsured or under-insured motorist coverage (“UMBI”).
Building A Strong Case
Passengers injured in a car accident can prove their damages through medical bills, proof of lost wages and economic loss, and pain and suffering caused by the accident. It’s just as important for passengers to have a personal injury attorney representing them to make sure they are fully compensated.
Additionally, it is important for passengers to try to obtain as much information on their own for their case such as a police report, witness statements, and injury/property damage photographs. Do not rely on the driver providing you with this information.
When Multiple Passengers Are Involved
Sometimes multiple passengers are involved in a car accident, making filing a claim even more complicated. If this happens, and each passenger files a personal injury claim, the combined value of the cases may exceed the at-fault drivers policy limits. This can cause an injured passenger to settle for less money without proper legal representation fighting for you.
Wearing a Seatbelt
Passengers should always wear a seatbelt when they are in the car regardless of where they are sitting. If the seatbelt could’ve prevented the injury, then the insurance company will likely argue that although their insured caused the accident, the injuries could have been prevented if the injured party was wearing a seatbelt.
You Should Seek Legal Advice
If you have been involved in an accident as a passenger, it is important you seek legal advice. Don’t sign anything and don’t talk to the insurance companies unless you’re referring them to your attorney.
If you were a passenger in an auto accident, contact us for a free consultation to help protect your rights.
