While drivers are the most common victims of car accident injuries, anyone who is in a vehicle at the time of a crash can suffer serious harm. Passengers, like drivers, may be able to obtain compensation from a negligent driver or other party that caused a car accident.

Filing a Claim

An injured passenger may start the process by filing a claim with the driver’s insurance company—either the driver of the vehicle they were riding in, or the driver of another vehicle involved in the accident, depending on which driver appears more likely to be at fault for the accident. In some cases, a claim is filed with both insurance companies until an investigation determines who is at fault.

Building a Case

To file a claim, the passenger will need to get insurance information from both drivers. Other information, such as a copy of the police report and copies of medical bills and other evidence of expenses related to the crash, can also help build the injured passenger’s case. Keeping copies of bills, invoices, and pay stubs can help you establish your claim, as can gathering all the information you can at the scene of the accident

Damages

If one or both drivers were negligent in a way that caused the passenger’s injuries, the passenger may be entitled to compensation. Common types of damages passengers receive in California car accident claims include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and repair of damaged property. It’s important to understand the full value of your claim so that you do not accept an insufficient settlement amount.

Working With an Attorney

If you’ve been injured as a passenger in a car accident, an experienced California car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you need to meet current and future medical expenses, cover lost wages, and replace other losses you have suffered. Contact The Paris Firm today at 909.551.4040 to learn more.

 

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.