Seeking Compensation for an Injured Passenger In a Car Accident

Getting into a car accident in Chicago is scary and overwhelming. But did you know that even if you are a passenger in a vehicle that was in an accident, you may be entitled to compensation?  Our Joliet car accident lawyer can help you better understand your rights to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

In fact, your rights as a passenger are nearly unlimited when it comes to filing a claim against the negligent party involved in the accident. Fatal crashes may also result in a wrongful death lawsuit after the accident occurs.

How to File a Claim with the Other Driver’s Insurance Agency

The driver of the vehicle, even the vehicle that you are in, is responsible for the safety and wellbeing of all passengers. In the case that the driver is acting irresponsibly behind the wheel and this results in an accident or injuries, the passenger can take action and file a lawsuit.

Some examples of dangerous driving behaviors include speeding, illegal turns, running traffic lights or stop signs, texting, and driving, and more.

What If My Spouse or Another Family Member Was Driving?

Although a bit more uncommon, it is completely possible to sue a spouse or family member if they caused the accident. A child can even sue his or her parent if they sustained injuries due to an accident.

Not only can passengers file a lawsuit regardless of the driver, but they can also do so when fault cannot be determined. As long as the driver has the car insurance policy minimum, they will not be responsible for paying the damages.

You can think of it as the passenger filing against the driver’s insurance policy, and the insurance company would end up paying the claim.

What If Both Drivers are At Fault?

If both drivers are equally at fault, the passenger in the vehicle(s) can still sue both drivers. This helps ensure the injured passenger is not shortchanged out of benefits if one policy doesn’t provide a sufficient amount of money.

For more guidance from our personal injury lawyer in Joliet, schedule a complimentary consultation with us today!