Most people believe that only the injured driver files a car accident claim. However, a passenger can pursue compensation for pain, suffering, lost wages, and medical expenses as well. Those struggling to recover fair compensation should consult with a local personal injury lawyer.
Who is Liable for Medical Bills After an Accident?
Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible. An insurance company representing the other driver may even try to blame the passenger for the accident. An injured passenger cannot be held liable for the negligence of the driver. As a passenger, you have a few options. You may decide to file a claim against the driver of the vehicle that you were in or against the driver of the other car.
Louisiana At-Fault Laws Can Help You
State law determines which party must pay for damages resulting from an accident with an at-fault system. The determination ensures the party at fault is responsible for the costs. Injured passengers can file multiple claims to maximize their compensation. Compensation depends on the number of vehicles involved in the accident, extent of damages, and many other factors.
A single-vehicle accident is classified as a driver crashing into a stationary object including parked vehicles and trees. This type of accident usually results from driver negligence and is associated with reckless, impaired, and distracted driving. A passenger injured in this type of accident may be able to file a claim against the driver without the necessity of proving the driver was negligent. The passenger must only confirm they sustained injuries during the crash.
In an accident with multiple vehicles, there must be a clear party responsible for causing the crash. Negligence can occur when both drivers are distracted or aren’t driving carefully, resulting in an accident where there is more than one individual at fault.
Both drivers are considered at fault if they were speeding, driving recklessly, disregarding traffic signals, or any other negligent behavior. In this situation, the passenger may be able to file a claim against both drivers. The level of negligence determines the amount of compensation.
Going to Court as a Passenger Filing a Personal Injury Claim
If more than one driver was at fault, Louisiana uses the standard of comparison to determine the responsibility of each party. The court examines the actions of the drivers to learn the higher degree of negligence. A level of fault is assigned to each party to determine the amount of compensation.
Hiring an attorney after a collision has numerous benefits. Your attorney acts as an advocate and can help you pursue the highest compensation deserved. They can also help determine which driver was at fault. The Louisiana car accident lawyers at E. Orum Young Law Offices have over 25 years of experience representing injured car accident victims. Allow us to put out our knowledge of personal injury law to work for you. Contact us today at (318) 450-6453 for a free case evaluation. Our Trial Guarantee ensures that we will take your case to trial per your request.
