Unlike drivers, passengers have no control over what led to the crash, yet they often face the same physical and financial consequences.
Whether the driver of your vehicle or someone else was at fault, it is important to understand your rights and know what steps to take after a collision to protect your health and a potential passenger injury claim.
Were You a Passenger in a Car Accident? Here’s What to Do
If you were injured as a passenger in a car accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries from the party at fault for the crash. You could be entitled to recover compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance policy for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, suffering, and other losses.
Here is what to do after a passenger accident:
- Contact our Kentucky car accident attorneys. A car accident lawyer from Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer can help you determine who may be liable and pursue all available compensation on your behalf. We can also handle communications and negotiations so you can focus on recovery.
- Seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a medical professional right away because some injuries might not display symptoms immediately. A medical record linking your injuries to the accident can be important if you later file an insurance claim or take legal action.
- Collect evidence. Document the scene to help preserve evidence that might otherwise be lost in the days following the crash. If you are able, take photos of the accident scene and your visible injuries. Get the names and contact information of all drivers involved and any witnesses.
- Learn what your rights are. As a passenger, you may be eligible to recover damages from the at-fault driver’s insurance, whether that is the driver of the other vehicle or the one in which you were riding. Depending on the circumstances, you might also have access to coverage through your own auto policy.
- Talk to your own insurance company. Notify your insurance provider about the accident. Even if you were not driving, your policy might include medical payments (MedPay), personal injury protection (PIP), or uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage that could apply.
When Should a Passenger Pursue Legal Action?
If you were a passenger hurt in a car accident, you should consider taking legal action if your injuries result in medical bills, missed work, or long-term effects or complications. Act as soon as possible. Kentucky law typically gives you just one year from the accident date to file a claim. If you wait too long, you risk losing your options for seeking financial recovery.
Why Is Finding a Car Accident Attorney Beneficial for You?
Identifying and working with our experienced Kentucky car accident attorneys can make a significant difference in your experience following a passenger accident, and can even affect the outcome of your personal injury claim. Our car crash lawyers regularly handle personal injury cases and can efficiently investigate and prepare your claim while you concentrate on healing.
Morgan, Collins, Yeast & Salyer is available 24/7 to discuss your case at no cost to you. Reach out to our personal injury attorneys today at (877) 809-5352 for a free consultation to learn more about your legal rights and options as a passenger injured in a car accident.
