Being a passenger in a car accident is not always as simple as it would be if you were the one who was driving. It can add an extra layer of difficulty and confusion when you are not sure of what next steps to take after a car accident. You likely know that the two drivers will be exchanging information with one another, but what should you be doing? Should you be prepared to file a personal injury claim or will you be paying for your own injuries and any property damage you have sustained? Understandably, you may have many questions following an accident like this.
Identifying the At-Fault Driver
One of the first steps you should take after you were in a car accident is to identify the driver who was at fault. Depending on the circumstances, it might be only one driver. However, it is possible – and does complicate the situation a bit more – if you know that both parties involved were each responsible for the accident to some degree. Especially when this is the case, your personal injury claim might be more difficult and you will want to be working with a lawyer you can trust.
Why is it so important to determine who the at-fault party was?
When you determine who was responsible for the accident (and your injuries), you will be able to file a claim against them to recover compensation. Especially if you have hospital stays, physical therapy, rehabilitation, or other expenses from the accident, it is important that you hold the at-fault party accountable and receive damages.
What if my friend was driving and they are responsible for the accident?
This can be a very awkward situation if you were in a car accident that your friend was responsible for. You may be inclined to avoid filing a personal injury claim because you do not want to damage your friendship. It is important to make the distinction in this situation that you would be filing a claim against your friend’s insurance and not against your friend personally. In fact, in some instances, the friend who caused the car accident to happen can put a great deal of guilt on the person who was injured in the car accident so that they can avoid their car insurance premiums from going up. Your lawyer will encourage you to look at the options in front of you and come to a decision that will best help you when you are hoping to file your car accident claim.
Get Legal Help For Your Car Accident Claim
Your lawyer can help you navigate this difficult situation and show you which steps to take. When you are a passenger in a car accident, things can be incredibly complicated. Make this as simple as possible by working with a lawyer you can trust.