Passengers in car accidents oftentimes have severe injuries, resulting in the need for medical treatment. In some cases, a passenger in a car accident may be unable to return to work or resume daily life functions as a result of their injuries. If you were a victim in a car accident as a passenger, you also have the right to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering if the accident was caused by another person’s negligence.
Immediately Following the Accident
At the scene of the accident, you should always accept medical treatment from emergency medical workers if your injuries are serious. If you do not accept treatment at the scene of the accident, you should go to the emergency room or seek medical attention as soon as possible. Additionally, if it is possible, you should attempt to obtain the contact information of all parties involved in the accident as well as witnesses. Finally, make sure to receive a copy of the accident report from the police when it is completed.
Who is Responsible for Your Bills?
You have three parties that you may be able to receive compensation from following an accident. If your driver is at fault for the accident, you may file a claim with their insurance company. Remember, even if the driver is a friend or family member, you are not suing them directly, you are attempting to receive compensation from their car insurance company. If another driver is at fault, you have the right under the law to file a claim with their insurance company for compensation regarding your injuries. Finally, you may have been the owner of the vehicle in which you were in an accident, allowing another person to drive your car. If this is the case, you may be able to file a claim under certain circumstances with your own insurance company.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are skilled at manipulating victims into accepting settlement offers lower than what they deserve. Never consent to have any conversation recorded, and never accept a first settlement offer. Additionally, avoid engaging in small talk with an insurance company representative as you may inadvertently say something innocent such as “I feel better, thank you” which can be used against you regarding your settlement. Never provide all of your medical history to an insurance company, only those records that pertain to your accident, and only after your medical treatment has been completed.
Contact an Experienced Accident Attorney Today
If you were involved in a car accident as a passenger in either the state of Kansas or Missouri, contact an experienced lawyer at Griggs Injury Law at (816) 474-0202 to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
