In the event of a car accident, it is important that you know your rights as a passenger of the automobile. In this position, your injuries and other damages matter just as much as that of the other drivers, and therefore you have just as much right to receive compensation to recover. Read on to understand your dues as a passenger in a car accident and how a seasoned Port St. Lucie car accident lawyer at The Florida Personal Injury Law Team can assist you with your personal injury claim.
Am I eligible to recover damages as a passenger in a car accident via a personal injury claim?
In an attempt to recover damages, a knowledgeable Port St. Lucie auto accident lawyer will work on your behalf and submit a claim to the at-fault party’s insurance company. In the event that you cannot negotiate a fair settlement that fully compensates for your injuries, then you have the right to file a personal injury claim.
If the host driver was the at-fault party, then you may be worried about how this claim may affect your relationship with them as a friend, family member, or otherwise. But rest assured, your claim will not hurt their personal finances because it is not directed at them but at their insurance company.
Overall, you must make your healing a priority. Regardless of your relationship with the driver, and regardless of you just being a passenger in the crash, you should file a claim if you experienced any of the following:
- You are suffering through injuries that are prone to leaving long-term effects on your life.
- You are receiving hefty medical bills or lost wages due to your injuries.
- You are supposing that the driver or vehicle was uninsured.
What damages may I recover as a passenger?
As a passenger, you will be able to recover the same economic and non-economic damages as a driver in a car accident. Examples of economic damage include current and future medical bills, lost wages, medical equipment, and outside assistance, among others. As for non-economic damages, examples include emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of independence, among others.
What approach should I follow after being injured as a passenger?
As for all personal injury claims, as a passenger in a car accident, you must satisfy the burden of proof. Below are the steps you should take immediately following your accident:
- Call 911: the police will conduct a report and call medical attention.
- Seek treatment: get medical attention as soon as they arrive.
- Collect the contact information of all parties (and witnesses): this includes name, number, driver’s license information, and insurance company information.
- Take photos and videos: document all damages and injuries involved.
- Collect medical documents: ensure the date, time, and severity of your injuries are included.
- Obtain legal representation: employ a proficient attorney at The Florida Personal Injury Law Team.
Contact our experienced Port St. Lucie Firm
Here at The Florida Personal Injury Law Team, we understand the detrimental effects that an injury can have on an individual and his or her family. Contact us today for help.
