Auto Accidents Lawsuits

Passenger injury cases involve injuries suffered while riding as a passenger in a car. Often, passengers sustain the most devastating injuries of all when it comes to car accidents - especially children.

Fortunately, the law provides protection for passengers who have suffered car accident injuries. If you've been hurt while another was driving, you can seek financial compensation from the insurance carriers of the driver of the vehicle you were in, as well as the driver of any other vehicles involved in the accident. In some cases, both or all drivers involved can be held responsible for your passenger injuries. Your ability to seek damages is not affected by whether or not driver negligence is found to be the cause of the accident.

Things You Should Know if You've Suffered a Passenger Injury

It may be that the person driving the car at the time of your accident was a friend or family member. Because of this, you may be reluctant to seek the advice of a personal injury lawyer to help determine if you have basis for a claim. Keep in mind that no matter who was driving, you have the legal right to be compensated for your injuries. And since all drivers should carry insurance coverage, it would actually be the driver's insurance carrier you're seeking damages from - not the driver himself.

If you've been injured as a car passenger, here are things to keep in mind.

• You are not at fault. As a passenger, you are not considered to be at fault for causing a car accident unless you've done something to provoke the crash, such as distracting the vehicle operator.
• Car accident passenger injuries can be financially devastating. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may face extended time out of work and mounting medical expenses. Although it cannot undo the accident that happened or lessen the suffering you've endured, getting financial compensation for your injuries can help you reduce the financial burden associated with your accident.
• Do not rely on the driver of the car to act in your best interests. Your primary concern should be yourself. If you are a passenger of a car involved in an accident, it is vital, of course, that you seek immediate medical attention. Following that, you'll want to collect as much information as you can about what happened. This includes obtaining insurance information from all drivers involved, taking photos of your injuries, recording weather and road conditions at the time of the accident, writing down the names of any witnesses, and noting the circumstances leading up to the accident. As with all car accident cases, it is critical that evidence be preserved.
• Don't sign away your rights. If you've been hurt as a passenger in a car accident, the driver's insurer may contact you, offering cash in settlement of any potential claim. Keep in mind that the insurer's job is to limit the amount of money paid out in claims. Before you accept any offer to settle, you may wish to first consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.
• Claims arising from car passenger injuries are unique and complex. To make sure you are treated fairly and that you receive the maximum amount of compensation to which you are entitled, it is wise to get the advice of a personal injury lawyer. He or she can help you navigate the complex issues of your car accident case, including the determination of liability, assessment of your injuries, and the handling of insurance matters.

Are You the Victim of a Car Passenger Injury?

If you or your child has been injured as a passenger in a car accident, it is not your fault. But it is your responsibility to protect your interests by seeking the help of a lawyer experienced in passenger injury cases.

Remember, the law limits the amount of time you have to file suit after being injured, and failure to act quickly could affect your ability to file a claim. Don't delay - contact the Law Offices of James Sokolove today for a free, no-obligation consultation on your case.