Obviously, a driver isn’t the only person who can get seriously injured in a car accident. If you were a passenger and you now find yourself facing a stack of medical bills and a long road to recovery after a crash, you should also have your chance to claim compensation. A Corpus Christi, Texas auto accident lawyer can help you build a case and sue for damages.
When Can a Passenger Sue For Damages?
A passenger can sue for damages if they are seriously injured. The main thing to figure out is who should be sued for damages. A passenger can sue another driver involved in the crash or the driver of the car that they were occupying.
It all just depends on who was at fault. It can seem like a bad idea to sue the driver of the vehicle you were occupying at the time of the crash because this is presumably a friend or family member, but you have to remember that you are not really suing them. You are going after their insurance policy. They accepted liability for you when they let you into the car, and their insurer should pay out if you are hurt and they are to blame.
What Kinds of Compensation Can a Passenger Win?
A passenger who gets hurt should be reimbursed for the economic and noneconomic damages they have suffered in the aftermath of a car crash. A fair settlement offer should address things like:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain from disability or disfigurement
- Mental health issues stemming from the crash, like anxiety or PTSD
- Any other pain and suffering resulting from the accident
What If I Was the Passenger in a Lyft or Uber?
Another driver can be blamed and sued if your Lyft or Uber got into an accident. These rideshare companies also have robust insurance policies that should cover you if you were a passenger when a crash occurred. If you were injured in a rideshare, you’ll definitely want to talk to a lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you figure out the best course of action.
How Can a Lawyer Help Me?
You are not required to hire a lawyer when pursuing damages. You may think that you don’t need one, that your case looks simple and the solution is obvious. Unfortunately, insurers will still do their best to avoid paying out, even when your case looks “open and shut.”
A lawyer can help you negotiate with insurers and build a stronger case. Whether you need help gathering evidence or finding expert witnesses who can strengthen your arguments, you’ll be happy to have an experienced attorney on your side.
Meet With Our Legal Team
If you were injured in a car accident as a passenger or a driver, we’re ready to fight for you. Contact Sahadi Legal Group and schedule a free consultation with our team. We’ll tell you more about your legal options and what kind of compensation may be available to you.