As scary as car accidents can be, as a driver, you may feel that you have some control in the accident while it is happening.
As a passenger in a car, you may feel helpless and out of control, especially during a car accident. If you have been injured in a car accident as a passenger in a vehicle, then you may need to contact a lawyer immediately.
Also Read : 5 Reasons to Employ a Car Accident Attorney
Who Do You Sue?
After being an injured passenger in car accident—even with the no-fault laws in the state of Florida—you have an easy case to prosecute.
Since the passenger isn’t in control of driving, he or she cannot be blamed for the accident or required to pay anything. It doesn’t matter which car the passenger was in at the time of the accident, the driver found at-fault will be held responsible.
If the driver was in an accident with a tree or building, for example, then it is a one-car accident and he or she will be responsible for the expenses of the injuries sustained by the passenger. If it is a two-car accident, then the negligent driver will be held responsible after the case is reviewed and the driver is found at fault.
In some cases, a passenger can sue both drivers for the injuries if the at-fault party isn’t determined.
Filing a Claim
Like any other victim involved in a car accident, a claim must be filed by the injured passenger. Having a lawyer by your side can help you to know what steps are needed to successfully receive compensation for your injuries.
As a passenger, you want to gather insurance information from both drivers so that you can file a claim with both of the drivers involved. If the car accident was a one-car accident, you will get the information from the only driver involved. Since Florida is a no-fault state, the passenger will more than likely file a claim with the driver’s insurance for your medical expenses.
Damages Covered
The aftermath of a car accident can be difficult, but working with a qualified and experienced auto accident attorney on your side can ensure your likelihood to receive a settlement for your injuries.
Lawsuits are usually pursued if the medical expenses have surpassed the insurance company’s budget. In the state of Florida, there are many instances where injuries are not covered by insurance companies but you are able to sue the negligent driver to cover the expenses. For example, paralysis, severed ligaments, and brain damage are just some examples of injuries that will likely require a higher settlement.
Other damages that the court may provide you with compensation for include loss of income, pain and suffering, medical bills and expenses, and more.
West Palm Beach Personal Injury Attorneys
Car Accident Attorney at Sternberg / Forsythe, Attorneys at Law, we want you to get justice for any injuries you may have sustained in a car accident. If you contact us online or by calling us at 561-687-5660, then we can offer you a free, no-obligation consultation, and review your case to see if you are qualified to pursue a lawsuit. We want to help keep you informed and answer any questions you have regarding your personal injury case.