Are you aware of your rights as a passenger in a car wreck? Understanding your rights as a passenger in Texas is crucial for recovering physically and financially after a crash.
In Texas, thousands of vehicle collisions result in serious injuries to both drivers and passengers each year. Many passengers fail to take advantage of their rights, which can lead to overwhelming medical bills and other post-injury costs.
Here’s how you can protect yourself from financial burden caused by someone else’s negligence.
Why is it challenging for passengers to recover the full value of their injuries?
Recovering the full value of your injuries as a passenger in a car crash can feel like an uphill battle. While there are avenues to pursue the full value you deserve, the process can become incredibly complex.
If you were in a vehicle that was struck by a negligent driver, you may have the option to file a claim with their insurance provider. Similarly, if the driver of the vehicle you were in contributed to the crash, you may be able to file a claim against their insurance without pursuing legal action against them personally. In cases where both drivers share responsibility for the crash, it may even be possible to seek compensation from both policies.
However, despite accounting for over 25% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities each year, passengers often find themselves overlooked by insurance companies. This is true even though passenger injuries can be just as severe as those sustained by drivers.
Dealing with insurance companies to recover damages after a car wreck can be a frustrating ordeal. While their role is to compensate the injured party for medical treatment and expenses, insurance companies often prioritize their own bottom line over helping you.
Adding to the complexity, multiple passengers may be injured in one or both vehicles involved in the collision. Sometimes, only one of the drivers has insurance, or neither do. Some insurance companies may even try to shift blame, prolonging disputes as your medical bills pile up.
In order to successfully navigate the intricacies of passenger injury claims, we recommend seeking the guidance of an experienced attorney. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. With the help of a knowledgeable legal professional, you can get your life back to normal after a crash.
What damages can you recover as a passenger?
To recover the full value of your injury, you must demonstrate that you have been harmed due to someone else’s negligence. Collecting documentation such as police reports, proof of lost wages, and medical bills is key to building a strong claim and determining who was at fault in a car collision.
Passengers can sustain a range of injuries in a car crash, including cuts, bruises, fractures, head and neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries, among others. It’s important to note that some injuries may not be immediately apparent, such as whiplash or internal injuries. Seek prompt medical attention, even if you don’t have visible injuries.
In addition to physical injuries, you may also be able to recover damages for emotional injuries. Traumatic collisions can lead to anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other emotional distress. Keeping a journal to monitor your physical and emotional condition in the weeks following a crash can help determine whether you need additional medical care.
Filing a claim as a passenger can be complex, which is why we recommend hiring a personal injury attorney. An attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring that you have the necessary documentation and evidence to support your claim. By seeking the full value of your injury and resulting losses, you can alleviate financial concerns and get your life back to normal as soon as possible. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified attorney today.
