When you’re the driver and you get into a car accident, you’re the one who deals with the cops and the insurance company. You get out of the car at the accident scene. You call 911. You talk to the police and find out who was at fault. You get the other driver’s insurance information so you can file a claim. But, what happens if you’re not the driver, but a passenger injured in a car accident? Things can be a bit more complicated.
When the police arrive at the scene, they’re going to check to see if anyone was hurt – this includes both the driver and the passenger. If you need medical attention, they’ll arrange for the ambulance to take you to the hospital. But they won’t necessarily give you a copy of the accident report. And, things can be even hairier if the person driving the car you were in was the one at fault.
If the person whose car you were in is a family member, you probably won’t have much to worry about. For example, if your spouse or parent was driving, you should be able to trust that they’ll take care of you. They won’t want you to go without medical treatment and coverage for your injuries, no matter who was at fault. But what if it’s just a friend or coworker? You have no way to know they have your best interests at heart. This is why you should always call an experienced local Houston car accident lawyer in situations like this.
You’re Entitled to Compensation as a Passenger Injured in a Car Accident
While you won’t have property damage claims if you’re a passenger in a car crash, you will be entitled to all other types of damages. Some of these include:
- Medical Bills – You’ll be entitled to medical coverage for any injuries suffered in the crash. The same is true for any future medical care you need. For example, you may need several surgeries down the road. The person at fault in the accident should be held responsible for these costs.
- Lost Wages – If your injuries are serious, you may need to take a lot of time off from work. In fact, you may not be able to work again. The defendant will be liable for any lost wages and lost future income you experience.
- Pain and Suffering – Depending on how serious the car accident is, you may be entitled to pain and suffering. These are damages intended to compensate you for the physical and mental anguish caused by the accident. While these damages are harder to prove, you may still be entitled to them.
Regardless of who was at fault, if you were injured as a passenger in a car crash, you may be entitled to damages. Your Houston car accident lawyer will work hard to get you as much money as possible. They’ll try to negotiate your insurance claim. If this doesn’t work, they’ll file a lawsuit on your behalf. They’ll stand by your side every step of the way and make sure you get the money you deserve.
Contact a Skilled Car Accident Lawyer in Houston, Texas
If you were a passenger injured in a car accident, then someone needs to cover your medical care. This will likely be the insurance company of either the other driver or the person whose car you were in. However, because you are just a passenger, you may have a hard time filing a claim. You may not have the insurance information you need. Or, you may not have a copy of the accident or police report. This is when it helps to have a skilled Houston accident law firm on your side.
Your Texas car accident lawyer will find out what insurance company you need to deal with. They’ll get a copy of the police report and find out who was at fault. They’ll do what they need to make sure you’re compensated for your injuries.
Call right away and schedule your free initial consultation with a local car accident lawyer in Houston. They can sit down with you and go over the claims process. They can also answer any questions you might have. If need be, they’ll represent you in a lawsuit against the other driver. Either way, they’ll work hard to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. The consultation is free and you pay nothing until your claim is resolved.