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When people think about a car crash, the focus tends to be on the driver of both cars and what their role in the accident might have been, as well as the possible consequences to their health and their vehicles. But another group of people that also suffer when car accidents happen are the passengers. And the fact that they are innocent as far as fault is concerned, does not exempt them from suffering injuries.

What Could A Passenger Suffer As A Consequence Of A Car Accident?

If you are a passenger in a car that has been involved in an accident, you can suffer:

• Injuries that can vary depending on the severity of the collision

• Permanent scarring

• Long-term or permanent disabilities

• Missed wages if you are unable to go to work

• Future loss of income

• Medical bills for extended periods of time

• Pain and suffering

What Makes A Difference In What Happens To A Passenger During An Accident?

Three main factors affect the impact on a passenger because of an accident

• The severity of the incident

• The place where this person was seated

• The kind of vehicle they were riding in

If You Are The Passenger, Whom Can You File A Claim Against?

Once fault has been determined after the car accident, it will come to light whether the driver you were riding with was at fault or the driver of the other car. That is why you may find yourself in a situation where you may be filing a claim against one or both drivers.

However, it may also happen that you are related to the person that was driving the car you were in. If this is the case, you will most likely not be able to file a claim against them because the most likely scenario is that you will already be covered under that insurance policy.

The case may also be where there are multiple passengers either in your car or in both cars. Then the combined amount of compensation to all passengers will undoubtedly be smaller.

If You File A Claim As A Passenger, What Would Your Settlement Be Based On?

If you are a passenger in a car accident, you may be entitled to receive a settlement depending on the severity and extent of your injuries. The settlement would be based on:

• The extent of your medical bills

• Future and ongoing medical treatments

• Your lost wages

• Future loss of income

What Expenses Qualify As Medical Bills?

Medical bills include any medical expenses related to your injuries, such as:

• Doctors' bills

• Hospital bills

• Physical therapy

• Prescription drugs

• Medical devices

• X-rays

• Scans.

As the passenger in a vehicle involved in an accident, you definitely have an easier path with your claim than the drivers of the vehicles. Why? Because you have no need to prove liability nor is there any chance of you being found at fault for the accident. What's more, you may even be able to file a claim against both drivers.

If you were involved in a car accident as a passenger, have questions about your legal rights, and are considering filing a lawsuit, you may want to discuss what happened to you with a knowledgeable, experienced 1-800-Injured car accident lawyer. Call today to schedule your free initial consultation.