What Should You Do as a Passenger Injured in a Car Accident?
If you were a passenger injured in a car accident, you deserve compensation. In most cases, you will have an easier case because one or both of the drivers may be liable. When dealing with a personal injury claim, the plaintiff needs to prove liability (party at fault) and damages (the injuries incurred by the plaintiff). Proving liability is not always easy, especially when neither of the drivers wants to take responsibility for their actions. This is why you should consider enlisting the services of an accident or personal injury lawyer. While the passenger injured in a car accident may not be at fault, the complication may arise with the other drivers involved.
Understanding Your Options
Often, making an insurance claim can be a lengthy process. This is especially the case with third party claims. As a passenger injured in a car accident, you will have medical bills that need to be timely paid. While your case is still under review, you might be able to file a claim to cover medical payments. This type of insurance cover is known as “med pay”. This coverage is available in personal car insurance policies.
It is important to understand that “med pay” is not based on who is at fault. It is a provision made to cover the immediate medical bills. However, you cannot file for lost wages and pain and suffering under med pay. These damages are covered by the insurer of the party at fault.
If the med pay in the policy is not sufficient to cover all your medical bills, you may be able to make a med pay claim on the owner or the driver of the car you were traveling in.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Personal injury claims are bound by state laws. You need to follow the right procedure so as to receive compensation. If you are a passenger injured in a car accident, contact us, and we will help secure you compensation based on the merits of your injuries.
Contact our experienced San Luis Obispo personal injury attorneys at James McKiernan Lawyers for a no-cost consultation to discuss your particular circumstances.
