If you were a passenger in a car accident, you may be able to sue the driver of the car you were riding in, the other driver, or both, depending on who caused the crash.
Because passengers are rarely responsible for an accident, they often have the right to seek compensation for their injuries from the at-fault party’s insurance.
At NextLaw, we have over 100 years of combined experience and are here for you. An experienced Tacoma car accident lawyer from our firm can review your case, explain your options, and help you seek the compensation you deserve, based on the details of your case. Call us today for a free consultation.
Who Can I Sue After a Car Accident as a Passenger?
If you were hurt as a passenger, you may be able to file a claim against one driver or even both drivers, depending on who caused the crash. Here is more information:
Suing the Driver of the Car You Were In
Many people worry about filing a claim if the driver is a friend or family member. However, in most cases, the claim is made with the driver‘s auto insurance, not their personal bank account or other assets. Auto insurance is designed to help cover injuries after an accident.
Suing the Other Driver Involved in the Accident
If the other driver caused the accident or shares responsibility for what happened, you may be able to file a claim with their liability insurance.
What if Both Drivers Share Fault for the Accident?
Sometimes both drivers contribute to a crash. For example, one driver may have been speeding while the other failed to yield.
In these situations, you may be able to file claims with both drivers’ insurance policies. Because passengers are usually not responsible for causing the accident, they can often seek compensation from one or more at-fault parties without worrying about how fault is divided. Speaking with a lawyer from NextLaw can provide more clarity.
For a free legal consultation, call (253) 238-2558
What if the Driver I Was Riding With or the Other Driver Was Uninsured?
You may still have options if the driver you were riding with or the other driver involved in the accident does not have insurance.
If the at-fault driver does not have insurance or does not have enough coverage, you may be able to file a claim through uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Depending on your situation, this coverage may come from your own auto insurance policy or the policy of a family member you live with. An experienced lawyer from NextLaw can review all available insurance policies to determine what coverage may apply.
What Compensation Can I Recover as an Injured Passenger?
Every accident is different, but as an injured passenger, you may be able to recover compensation for:
Medical Expenses
This can include the cost of emergency room visits, doctor appointments, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and other medical care related to your injuries. Keep copies of your medical bills, as they can help support your claim.
Future Medical Treatment
You may be able to recover compensation for future surgeries, physical therapy, follow-up appointments, or other treatment you are expected to need.
Lost Wages
If your injuries caused you to miss work, you may be able to recover the income you lost while you were healing. This can include missed paychecks, bonuses, or other work-related earnings.
Reduced Earning Ability
If your injuries prevent you from returning to the same job or working the same number of hours, you may be able to seek compensation for your reduced ability to earn income in the future.
Pain and Suffering
Serious injuries often cause more than just financial losses. You may be able to recover compensation for the physical pain and discomfort your injuries have caused.
Emotional Distress
Being involved in a car accident can also affect your mental and emotional health. Compensation may be available if you experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, or other emotional challenges because of the accident.
Rehabilitation Costs
Recovering from an injury may require physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other rehabilitation services. These expenses can add up, and they may be included in your claim.
The amount of compensation depends on the seriousness of your injuries and how they have affected your life. A car accident lawyer from NextLaw can help you understand what compensation may be available.
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What Should I Do Immediately After Being Injured as a Passenger?
After an accident, taking a few important steps can help protect both your health and your legal claim. You should first get medical care if you haven’t already; technically, it’s never too late to see a doctor after an accident. Also, if possible:
- Get contact and insurance information from both drivers.
- Take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, and your injuries.
- Keep copies of your medical records, visits, and bills.
- Avoid discussing details with friends, extended family, or on social media.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies before speaking with a lawyer.
- Call a car accident lawyer at NextLaw to learn about your legal options.
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Start Working With a Car Accident Lawyer Today
Your lawyer can handle the legal process, negotiate for fair compensation, and fight for your best interests every step of the way.
If you were injured as a passenger in a car accident, you have the right to seek compensation regardless of who was driving. At NextLaw, our legal team can review your case, answer your questions, and explain your options during a free consultation.
You pay nothing upfront, and there are no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. Call Dan Next to get started.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form