You Have Rights as a Passenger
If you were injured in a car or motorcycle crash as a passenger, it is important to know that you can seek compensation for your injuries. In fact, there may be multiple ways to recover costs. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you determine who is liable and how to proceed.
The attorneys at Vickery, Riehl & Alter have decades of experience helping people who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents as passengers and as drivers. We know how to find the options available to you through insurance coverage. To discuss your passenger injury claim, please call our Columbus office at 614-602-4153.
Recovering Damages
As a passenger in a car or on a motorcycle, you are at the mercy of the driver — as well as all of the other vehicles on the road. If you are injured in an accident, there are several avenues for pursuing compensation. These include:
- The at-fault vehicle that struck you
- The manufacturer of the car or motorcycle you were riding in
- The insurance of the person driving
- Your own car insurance
It is even possible to make a claim against a family member if that is who was driving at the time of the accident.
People who are injured in an accident that only involves their car also have rights. Whether they are the driver or a passenger, they may be able to seek compensation from their auto insurance company.
Even if the party at fault had no insurance, or less than yours, uninsured motorist claims pit you against your own auto carrier. Do not be fooled into thinking that your auto carrier will treat you preferentially because you are their customer. They will deny, defend and delay your claim as any other and are only looking out for the insurance company's "bottom line".
What to Know Before You Accept a Settlement
Many people do not realize that they are under no obligation to accept the first offer from an insurance company. They also usually do not know that if they sign a release with the insurance company, they cannot later collect additional recovery.
No matter what type of injury claim you have, it is often a good idea to consult a lawyer before you accept a settlement or sign any documents, so you can make informed decisions for your future.
For a free consultation to discuss your passenger injury, please call us at 614-602-4153 or send us an e-mail. We represent clients throughout central Ohio.
