Any passenger injured in a car accident should consult with a personal injury lawyer. Even if the driver was your friend or your partner, you should get independent legal advice from your own lawyer. Passengers are almost always innocent victims in car accidents, and if they were wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident they are usually entitled to 100% of their damages and losses. And since claims arising from car accidents are almost always defended by an insurance company, it does not matter if it is necessary to commence a claim against someone you have a relationship with.
Car accidents can produce all kinds of injuries, depending on the forces involved, including;
- Whiplash injuries, from sudden acceleration and deceleration;
- Concussions or other traumatic brain injuries
- Fractures of the arms, legs, pelvis, sternum or hips
- Torn ligaments and muscles
- Psychological injuries, including post-traumatic stress syndrome
The long-term effects of these injuries can include chronic pain, cognitive problems, sleep disorders, depression and anxiety. Injuries that were expected to resolve or heal sometimes worsen because of stress, financial problems, relationship problems and depression.
If you were a passenger involved in a car accident, it is always best to seek medical attention as soon as possible, and even if you believe you were just “shaken up”. Many injuries are not immediately apparent, and people often only start to recognize problems (pain, dizziness, fatigue) in the hours or days after the accident.
If you have been involved in a car accident, either as a driver or passenger or pedestrian, contact our office for a free consultation. One of our lawyers will review the facts and circumstances and let you know what your rights are.