Passengers who get injured in car accidents should also get the chance to pursue damages. If you were riding in a car and got into a crash, you could end up missing paychecks and staring at a growing pile of medical bills as you try to recover. Our lawyers have experience with Middlesex County injured passenger claims, and we can help you figure out how to get the compensation that you deserve.
Are Passengers Covered Under a Driver’s Insurance Policy?
In most accidents, you would be covered under the insurance policy carried by the driver of your vehicle. When they let you into their vehicle, they essentially agreed to take responsibility for you. So the liability coverage and personal injury protection, or PIP, parts of their policy should help pay for your medical expenses.
Will I Have to Sue My Friend or Family Member for Compensation?
Unfortunately, insurance companies are rarely renowned for their generosity. This means that they may send an offer your way, but that offer is not nearly enough to actually cover your expenses. This is when you may need a personal injury lawyer.
It’s understandable that the idea of suing a friend or family member after an accident gives you pause. The insurance company is counting on that, but you have to remember that you are not suing your friend or loved one. You are suing their insurer, whom they pay premiums. Their policy is designed to pay out in situations just like this.
What Can Passengers Do If Another Driver Was at Fault?
If another driver was clearly at fault for an accident, they could also be sued by passengers of other involved vehicles. This can also be a necessary move if you have run into the limitations of your driver’s insurance policy. Each policy has limits, so you may need to sue another driver for damages that can help make up for your medical expenses, lost wages, mental anguish, and pain suffered as a result of an accident.
What Can Passengers Do If They Were Riding in an Uber or Lyft?
Uber and Lyft offer their own insurance coverage. If the driver is transporting passengers and they are an official fare, the rideshare company’s coverage should be in effect. The company’s insurer should help you cover your expenses, and they can be sued if they do not offer enough to compensate you.
Do I Need an Attorney?
These cases can get complicated, especially if multiple drivers are involved. Insurance companies can also be hard to deal with. If you have a lawyer, they can do the negotiating for you. We cannot promise the world, but our attorneys can promise that they will work hard to fight for the best possible outcome for you.
Talk to Our Team Today
Pursuing compensation on your own can be difficult. If you were hurt in a car crash, contact Stathis & Leonardis. We can schedule a consultation and tell you more about what our law firm can do to assist you in this trying time.
