Getting Compensated as an Injured Passenger

A passenger who sustains injuries in a car accident has the legal right to seek compensation from those who caused the accident.

This is true even if the at-fault party was the driver of the vehicle they were riding in. This may be a difficult decision to come to if the driver is a close friend or relative, but you should not let that deter you from being compensated for your damages. Our Missouri car accident attorney from The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. can assist you in filing a car accident claim. Even if you are hesitant about taking legal action against someone close to you, we will explain your rights as an injured passenger to help you have a better understanding of your legal options.

Who Pays When You are Compensated as an Injured Passenger?

In almost 100% of car accident claims, the money obtained from an injured party is coming from an insurance company. This is the very reason why the driver has paid into the system, to protect themselves from personal loss if they are ever responsible for inflicting harm or damage to another while driving their vehicle.

If another driver was responsible for the accident, then you will seek compensation from them first. If it was the driver of the vehicle you were in who caused the accident, or if liability is not clear, you will seek compensation from your friend or family member’s insurance policy. In some cases, especially if you live in the same household, you may already be covered under the terms of their policy. The only possible recourse to the driver would be a raised rate for their insurance, which would happen as a result of the accident anyway whether you file a claim or not.

Can a Passenger Injured in a Car Accident File the Claim Themselves?

While insurance companies would have you believe that this is possible, it is never recommended. Without the help of an experienced car accident attorney, it is likely that you may be shorted on your rightful compensation. We can determine the estimated value of a car accident claim based on the circumstances and extent of your injuries and will know what a fair settlement should be.

You may have the legal right to be compensated for any medical bills, loss of wages, physical therapy, and pain and suffering when injured as a passenger in a car accident. Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. at (314) 361-4242 to learn about your legal options before accepting any type of settlement to ensure that your needs are being fully met.