If you’re driving your car, another driver causes an accident and you suffer injuries, you likely know that you can seek compensation from that driver. They are responsible for the costs that you have incurred – such as medical bills or lost wages – because their negligence, recklessness or intentional conduct almost certainly caused the accident.
But what if you’re a passenger? Passengers are injured in car accidents every single day. If this happens to you, can you seek compensation for your injuries too? How would your situation be different than if you were the driver of the car?
In some ways, it may be easier
One interesting thing to note is that it can sometimes be easier to get compensation when you’re a passenger. After all, there is no chance that you were the reason for the accident. You weren’t in control of either vehicle. The drivers have to sort out who is liable and who has to cover the costs, and they may disagree about this, but you don’t have to worry about it. You simply have to figure out which driver is responsible so that you can seek compensation, but it’s not going to be you. This simplifies the process from your perspective.
What if you’re in a rideshare vehicle?
The Uber safety report indicates that the company is involved in fewer fatal car accidents than the national average. But it’s important to note that speed has a lot to do with this. Uber accidents tend to take place in cities, so the speed is much lower than average, as well. Accidents at lower speeds are less likely to be fatal. Uber may not be involved in that many fatal accidents, but there could still be thousands of people who suffer injuries every year. If you were traveling as a passenger in a rideshare at the time you sustained harm, you may potentially be able to hold the company, the driver and/or third parties accountable for your injuries.
What do you do next?
If you have been injured as a passenger, you may be facing extensive bills. Take the time to look into the legal steps that are necessary to seek proper compensation. Seeking legal guidance is a good place to start.