Do Passengers Have Rights In Vehicle Accidents?
Passengers who have been injured in a car accident sometimes have a difficult time understanding their rights. While you may feel guilty about filing a claim against the driver, you should keep in mind that you are not taking action against them personally. In order to get compensation for your injuries, you have to protect your own rights.
The attorneys of Gay and Chacker are committed to protecting our clients’ rights after a serious accident. This includes passengers who have been injured. We will explain the rights of passengers injured in a car accident so you can determine how to proceed. Our goal when dealing with insurance companies is to put your needs first. We will use our years of experience and expertise to fight for your personal injury claim.
You Have The Same Right To Compensation As A Driver In A Car Accident
While you do not need to worry about compensation for the vehicle damaged (unless the accident occurred in your own car) you may seek compensation for any injuries you sustained.
Compensation could be awarded for the following:
- Medical bills – Following an auto accident, you can seek compensation for all medical expenses incurred because of your injuries. This includes everything from emergency treatment, ambulance transportation, physical therapy, and more. To get a better idea of the compensation you deserve, keep track of all your medical bills.
- Lost Wages– When you lose income while recovering from your injuries, it can be devastating, especially if you work hourly or don’t have paid time off. As part of your personal injury claim, you can claim compensation for lost wages.
- Pain and Suffering – As well as compensation for financial losses, you have the right to seek compensation for pain and suffering. Find out how to include pain and suffering in your personal injury claim by talking to an attorney.
- Wrongful death damages– In the event of wrongful death, compensation is awarded to the surviving family members or the passenger’s heirs.
Identifying And Proving The Negligence Of The Other Driver
In order to prove driver negligence, you must prove each of the elements. In essence, it means that they did something that a reasonable driver wouldn’t do.
To meet your burden of proof, your lawyer will gather evidence of what happened to cause the accident.
The following are some examples of negligence in driver-caused accidents:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving (texting or other distraction)
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Turning in an illegal manner
- A driving style that is aggressive
What To Do If You Have Suffered Injuries
- Call law enforcement and have a report made.
- Immediately get the medical care that you or your loved one needs.
- Describe your injuries in detail.
- Obtain witness contact information.
- Keep a diary detailing your injuries, experiences, medical treatment, and expenses.
- Consult with a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling passenger claims to seek their advice in your particular accident.
Navigating the aftermath of an accident can become quite complicated. If you have been injured as a passenger, hiring a personal injury attorney is especially important. Third-party claimants need someone to advocate for their needs throughout the process. Contact the personal injury attorneys of Gay and Chacker at (215) 567-7955 to discuss your case. We are pleased to help you through the process of filing the right claims to help you get the compensation you deserve.
