You weren’t driving, but you have been hurt – can you have your own case or do you need to take what the driver’s insurance offers you? When a passenger in a vehicle has been hurt, they often don’t know or understand their rights when they’ve been injured. Who is responsible to cover medical bills for their injuries? Are they eligible for compensation for pain and suffering?

What Are My Rights as a Passenger in an Accident?

Situations can be very different from case to case on accidents with injuries. But, because a passenger is not the reason for the accidents, they are entitled to compensation. In most accidents, the injured party can receive money for property damage, medical expenses, pain and suffering and loss of income. This all still applies as a passenger of a vehicle, even when you don’t own it.

Property damage includes damage to the vehicle, but also other personal property. If you lost personal property as a result of the accident, you may be able to receive compensation for that loss.

Medical expenses include transportation to a hospital, medical treatment and care, after care such as rehabilitation or physical therapy, and needed medical equipment. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may have injuries that last for years to come, and the care of that can also have compensation attached. It is important to talk to a lawyer about what exactly can be awarded.

Pain and suffering includes the emotional toll the accident has had on you and sometimes even your family members. If a loved one requires leaving work to care for you, or you aren’t able to provide or be intimate as you once were, pain and suffering compensation is designed to “make up for” that.

Loss of income includes wages for time out of work due to your injuries. This can include an initial hospital stay, and even follow up appointments to the doctor. For significant injuries that impact your ability to make income at your current career, additional financial compensation may be awarded.

Other considerations may be available depending on your unique situation. It is important to get a free consultation from an injury attorney to determine what your award may be and the steps you need to take to get compensated for your loss.

Simon Law Group in Phoenix, Arizona has been serving injured clients for over 20 years. We will support you in getting the compensation you deserve after an accident, whether you are a passenger or a driver. Contact us today for your free consultation, and remember, Experience Matters!

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