Passenger in an Accident
If you’re involved in a motor vehicle accident while riding as a passenger, you might be confused about what you should do, how you might be able to recover for your injuries, and who may be liable for your damages.
Passengers in Private Vehicles
If you are a passenger in a private, non-commercial vehicle, you may face the difficult situation of having to file an insurance claim or even a civil lawsuit against the driver of the vehicle to recover damages. Your own insurance carrier may require you to file suit against a friend or family member if the circumstances warrant. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you explore your avenues for recovery and determine the best course of action for you.
Passengers in Commercial Vehicles
If you are a passenger in a vehicle owned by your employer or the employer of the vehicle driver, a taxicab, or a passenger in a rideshare-type vehicle like Uber or Lyft, you may be able to recover damages from the driver’s employer or ridesharing company. These kinds of claims can have complicated issues of liability, but most commercial vehicles are required to carry some type of insurance for injuries to passengers. An experienced attorney can help sort out the potentially responsible parties and submit the appropriate claims within the periods prescribed by law.
Bus and Transit Companies
If you are injured while riding on a public or private bus, train, or other commercial transportation company, you may be able to pursue compensation for your injuries from that entity. Companies that offer transportation services to the general public in exchange for payment are known as “common carriers,” which, under the law, owe a heightened duty of care to protect the safety of their customers prevent injuries.
These entities have a greater responsibility to prevent all potential injuries to passengers, including collisions, than the ordinary duty of care of all drivers to exercise reasonable care and caution. If you have been hurt on a bus, train, or other common carrier, you should seek legal assistance to pursue your claim. These claims often have a shorter statute of limitations (the time in which you are permitted to initiate a legal action) and complicated requirements for properly filing and pursuing a successful claim.
If you or loved one has been injured while a passenger in another’s vehicle, you should seek legal counsel immediately. The experienced attorneys at Obral, Silk & Pal, LLC are here to help you – please contact us today!