How to Handle a Car Accident Between Friends

 Posted on May 31, 2018 in Personal Injury

Sustaining an injury as a passenger in your friend’s car can put you in an uncomfortable situation. You want to ensure your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages are paid for but do not want to damage your relationship with your friend. Fortunately, you can collect compensation without putting your friendship at risk.

Determining Liability

There are a number of parties that may be liable if you were hurt in a car accident as a passenger. These parties include:

• Your friend: If your friend was speeding, failed to stop at a stop sign, distracted, or engaged in any other activity that caused the accident, they may be liable for paying for your damages.
• The other driver: In the event the other driver’s negligent actions caused the collision, they may be at fault.
• Manufacturer: If a faulty vehicle or part led to your injuries, you may be able to file a claim against the manufacturer.
• The negligent driver’s employer: The employer of the negligent driver may be responsible for your damages if the driver was on the road for work.

Your Friend Will Not Have to Pay for Damages Out-of-Pocket

It is understandable that you do not want your friend to be left with the financial burden of paying for your damages. However, it is essential you realize that if you file a claim against them, they will not have to pay for your damages out-of-pocket. Their insurer will be the one liable for compensating you.

While it is true that your friend may experience increased insurance premiums, this will likely occur anyway when other passengers file a claim or they attempt to seek compensation for their own property damage.

Seek Legal Representation

Since there are a number of parties that may be responsible for the car accident, if you are hurt as a passenger while your friend was behind the wheel, you should contact an attorney right away. They can investigate your case, help you determine liability, and increase your chances of securing the maximum compensation you may be entitled to. Remember you have rights as a passenger and there is no reason to pay your medical bills and other damages if you were not the one who caused the crash.

Contact Our Hinsdale Car Accident Lawyers

If you have suffered an injury as a passenger in a car accident, it is in your best interest to contact our experienced DuPage County car accident lawyers. Call us today at 630-920-8855 for a free consultation.

Source:

http://wgntv.com/2018/03/11/1-dead-after-rollover-crash-on-south-side/