What to Do if You are Involved in a Car Accident as a Passenger

Following a collision, the claims process generally involves negotiation with the other driver’s insurance company (or your own) to determine who is liable for the accident damages — if you were driving. If you were a passenger in somebody else’s car during a collision, your post-accident rights and responsibilities will look a little different.

Who is Responsible for my Injuries?

Similar to any collision case, determining fault can be murky. It is possible that both drivers (or a third party) are responsible for your injuries. If you are able, you should attempt to remember the details of the accident and collect your own evidence to use to determine fault in your claim.

If the person you were riding with is a friend or family member, blaming them for your injuries can be uncomfortable — it is important not to pass on coverage just because you know the driver. It is possible that the insurance company will cover your expenses, which will help avoid an awkward situation. Contact our attorneys to learn about your options.

How Do I Recover Compensation?

In no-fault states, proving the negligence of another party is not necessary for recovering benefits. Each person has their own insurance policy that provides compensation in the event of a car accident. If you live in a no-fault state, you would simply need to file a claim with your own insurance company.

At-fault states require the identification of a liable party, so fault will need to be established in order for you to recover compensation. As a passenger, you could have the option to file a claim with either the other driver’s insurance provider, or the provider of the person you were in the car with, depending on who was at fault.

Car accident claims can be complicated, especially if you were involved as a passenger. At Rafi Law Group, our attorneys are committed to helping you understand the complexities of your case and helping you recover compensation.