Can I Sue if I was a Passenger in a Car Accident?

Can I Sue if I was a Passenger in a Car Accident?

Car Accident Info

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Passengers: What You Need to KnowAfter an Accident

Passengers injured in a car accident can sue, but they must prove the driver they are suing is liable for the crash. This does not apply if the passenger is a relative of the driver. Any relative living with the driver is generally covered under the insurance policy for the vehicle.

If the other driver was at fault, obtain their name, address, and insurance information. The same holds if the driver of the vehicle in which you were riding is responsible for the crash. No matter who you think was at fault, obtain this crucial information from both parties.

The Virginia car accident lawyers at Rutter Mills will protect your rights and help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Determining Fault

Fault depends on various factors; in many cases, each driver alleges the other was responsible. In certain types of crashes, just one party is usually at fault. For example, if you were a passenger in a rear-ended car, in most instances, the at-fault driver is the one who hit the vehicle in front. You would make a claim with that driver’s insurance company.

In some circumstances, the drivers share fault. Perhaps the driver whose car you were riding in attempted to make a left turn and was hit by another vehicle driven by a distracted driver. The distracted driver is at fault, but it is also possible that the car driver in which you were an occupant pulled out too quickly when making the turn.

In such instances, you may have a claim against both drivers. The insurance companies involved will determine which driver was negligent or the percentage of negligence incurred by each party.

Filing in a Lawsuit for Insurance Payments

If the insurance companies cannot agree on a fair settlement amount, the next step is filing a lawsuit. In this instance, your attorney will ensure that all drivers are included. The goal of the suit is not to cause financial burden to a driver, who may be a friend or coworker. The goal is to get their insurance company to pay you the money you need.

Suppose you were not the only passenger hurt in the crash. In that case, it is possible that the driver’s insurance coverage is insufficient to pay your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. In that case, you should consider filing a lawsuit to be fully compensated. The car accident lawyers at Rutter Mills can tell you how.

Car Accident Lawyer Resources – Areas Served

Contact a Rutter Mills Car Accident Attorney to speak about your case today.

If you were a passenger injured in a car accident, you need the services of the Rutter Mills car accident attorneys. Proudly serving as car accident lawyers in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Newport News, and other Hampton Roads areas. Contact us 24/7 via text or email to schedule a free consultation, or complete our online contact form.

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Don’t Fall For The Insurance Company’s Games

Dave suffered serious injuries in a car accident. The defendant’s insurance company tried to offer him a low amount so Dave called Rutter Mills. We took over dealing with the insurance and got Dave the money he needed to get back on his feet.

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After a car accident, Jamaree’s first call was to her mom. She was shaken up and scared. Mom told her “We’re calling Rutter Mills. Her next was to Rutter Mills. Her Rutter Mills car accident team helped her get compensation “above & beyond” what she was expecting.

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After John was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, he turned to the person he trusts most for a recommendation. His wife, a paralegal of 30 years, told him to call Rutter Mills on the advice of the lawyer she worked for.

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When the insurance company tried to get Carol to sign paperwork after her car accident, she knew she needed a lawyer. Carol knew she needed Rutter Mills.

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Taryn was in a car accident while she was pregnant. She knew she needed someone in her corner to protect her rights and her family’s future.

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A devasting accident changed Levon’s life forever. The physical and emotional toll left him scared and in pain. When the insurance company for the defendant contacted the family, they made an offer that did not even cover the cost of the medication, much less doctors’ bills, and physical therapy. They knew they needed to talk to a serious lawyer. Rutter Mills took care of the negotiation so Levon could focus on healing.

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Carol & Levon's Story

They knew they needed a serious lawyer when Carol and her son were seriously injured. After the other party’s insurance company tried to get her to settle for less than she needed, Carol called Rutter Mills for help. We took on the insurance company so she could focus on healing.