Most people think about car accidents in terms of who was at fault, since drivers can pursue claims against one another. But can a passenger in a car accident file a lawsuit if they were injured? What rights do they have?
Are You Eligible for a Settlement If You Are a Passenger in a Car Accident?
As a passenger injured in a car accident, you generally have the right to seek compensation. Unlike drivers, passengers are rarely considered at fault for a crash. Your ability to receive a
settlement depends on the circumstances and who caused the collision.
If the driver of another vehicle was negligent, you may pursue a claim against their insurance company. If the person driving the car you were in caused the crash, like in an
Uber accident, for example, you may still file a claim against their insurance policy.
In some cases, both drivers may share responsibility, and you could recover from both insurance companies. Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other related expenses.
Is It Worth Suing Someone for a Car Accident?
Deciding whether to pursue a car accident passenger claim comes down to the severity of your injuries and the financial impact of the accident. If your injuries are minor and insurance covers your expenses, pursuing a lawsuit may not be necessary. But if you are facing significant medical bills, ongoing treatment or lost income, a lawsuit may be the best way to recover the full amount you deserve.
Another factor to consider is insurance coverage. If the at-fault driver has adequate insurance or personal assets, your chances of recovering meaningful compensation are higher. It’s also important to understand how
long you have to sue, since every state has a statute of limitations that sets strict deadlines for filing a claim.
Lawsuits can be lengthy and stressful, but they can also be the only way to ensure you are not left paying the price for someone else’s negligence. Speaking with an attorney can help you evaluate whether filing a lawsuit is in your best interest.
What If the At-Fault Driver Is Your Friend or Family Member?
Many passengers hesitate to file a claim when the at-fault driver is a close friend or relative. While this concern is understandable, it’s important to remember that in most cases, you are not directly suing your loved one. You are pursuing compensation from their insurance company. The purpose of insurance is to protect drivers and cover injuries from accidents, including those involving their passengers.
Filing a claim should not be seen as an attack on your relationship but rather as a way to secure the resources you need to recover. No one’s medical care or financial stability should be sacrificed just to avoid difficult conversations.
Hurt as a Passenger in a Car Accident? File a Lawsuit To Protect Your Rights
Passengers rarely play a role in causing an accident, yet they often suffer serious consequences. If you were a passenger in a car accident, filing a lawsuit may be an effective way to secure the compensation you need for recovery and peace of mind.
Reach out to one of our experienced
car accident attorneys to review your case, explain your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
