As a passenger in a car accident, you are still entitled to compensation under Texas law. That being said, the claims process can be a bit complicated since you were not the driver of either vehicle. Salazar & Velazquez is a personal injury law firm in Houston that specializes in helping car accident victims receive the just compensation they deserve. Our car accident attorneys understand the court process and work incredibly hard for you. Below, we'll go over what you need to know if you were the passenger in a vehicle that was in a car accident. Contact us for a free consultation today!
Who Pays for Passenger's Injuries?
Since Texas is an at fault state, the at-fault driver and their insurance company will be responsible for paying for your injuries in a car accident. Sometimes, your car insurance coverage will help pay as well and the other driver's insurance company. Sometimes, both drivers may share in the claim of liability, which is where a top-rated car accident lawyer in Houston is worth their weight in gold.
Where it Gets Murky
If there were multiple passengers in a car accident and all were injured, the at-fault driver's insurance coverage may not be sufficient to cover everyone's insurance claims. If you were involved in a multiple-car accident with many injured parties, it may take months to sort out the entire accident and determine who's at fault. It's during this time that you may be tempted to take a settlement less than what you are owed. Partner with a top-rated car accident attorney in order to fight for your rights.
Personal Property
Car insurance policies do not cover personal property in car accidents; they only cover vehicle damage and bodily injury. So if your phone, computer, and other personal property is smashed, you will have to file a claim under your own homeowners or renters policy to get reimbursed for the cost of the replacement.
Uninsured Motorist Insurance & Phantom Vehicles
If the at-fault driver did not have car insurance, you may have to file through your own car insurance's uninsured motorist protection plan included on your auto insurance. A phantom vehicle is a vehicle that is responsible for a car accident but doesn't make contact with the vehicle. One example can be when you have to swerve to avoid hitting the vehicle because it is traveling in your lane. Here, you won't have the insurance information for that vehicle, so you'll have to rely on others' insurance and your own for compensation.
Bottomline
Bottomline is that passengers in vehicles are covered for bodily injury in the case of an accident. As the passenger, you will probably have to work closely with the driver of the car you were traveling in so that you can ensure you have all the necessary information, such as the police report, the other driver's information, their car insurance information, and more. Keep track of your medical expenses and receipts, and hire a great car accident attorney for maximum compensation.
CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
Salazar & Velazquez is a top-rated personal injury law firm in Houston that believes in helping victims of car accidents receive a just compensation settlement. We listen to our customers and respond promptly to their concerns, keeping them in the loop every step of the litigation process. Our car accident attorneys have years of experience negotiating and fighting insurance companies on our clients' behalf. With an intimate knowledge of the law, you can rest assured you'll be in good hands. Contact us for a free consultation today!