When you’re a passenger involved in a vehicular accident, you might find yourself dealing with injuries through no fault of your own. It’s common to wonder whether you have the right to seek compensation for the harm suffered.
The short answer is yes, passengers have as much right to file a personal injury claim as drivers do. What should a passenger in a car accident know about submitting a personal injury claim? If you’ve been hurt in a car crash, see a doctor first. Then, contact The Ledger Law Firm to discuss your case.
Understanding the Rights of Passengers in Personal Injury Cases
Passengers involved in car accidents often overlook their right to compensation. They’re focused instead on the drivers’ responsibilities. However, the law provides passengers with the same opportunities to seek damages for their injuries, pain, and suffering. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for emotional distress.
The key factor in whether a passenger in a car accident can file a claim is the impact of the accident on the passenger’s health. In most jurisdictions, passengers have a clear path to compensation because they are rarely considered at fault in collisions. This means that, regardless of whether the driver of the vehicle they were in or the driver of another vehicle is to blame, passengers can pursue claims for their injuries.
Common Types of Injuries Suffered by Passengers
Passengers in a car accident can suffer a variety of injuries, including:
- Minor cuts and bruises may seem inconsequential, but they can be the first sign of more serious underlying injuries.
- Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, often causing neck pain and stiffness.
- Broken bones are not only painful but can also significantly impact your daily life and work. Recovery times can be prolonged if surgery and physical therapy are required.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can result from a blow to the head during an accident, leading to long-term complications and issues with motor and sensory function.
- Spinal cord damage is one of the most severe outcomes of car accidents, potentially resulting in paralysis. Spinal injuries can change your life forever.
- Emotional trauma, including anxiety and depression, are common after an accident.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after experiencing a traumatic event like a car accident.
Not all of these injuries show up right away which is why you should always see a doctor after a car accident.
Handling the Claims Process as a Passenger
After an accident, the first step for any passenger should be to seek medical attention, even if the injuries seem minor. This is not only important for your health but also creates a medical record that serves as evidence for your personal injury claim. It’s also beneficial to gather as much information as possible at the accident scene, including photos, contact information for witnesses, and the police report, if available. All of this information will be important for maximizing the value of your claim. That is where our law office can help you.
Contact Ledger Law If You Are a Passenger in a Car Accident
If you’ve been injured as a passenger in a car accident, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. The Ledger Law Firm is dedicated to helping individuals like you understand their rights and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys is well-versed in the complexities of car accident claims and is committed to advocating on your behalf. Contact The Ledger Law Firm today at (800) 300-0001 for a free consultation. Our expertise and compassionate approach mean you can trust us to handle your case with the care and diligence it deserves.
