When motor vehicle accidents occur, passengers can be seriously injured, in addition to the drivers involved. Passengers who are harmed actually have far more rights to compensation than the drivers involved, since there is typically no way they can be blamed for causing the incident. If you have been injured as a passenger in a car accident in Arizona, you likely have many questions. Contact our Phoenix passenger injury attorney today for a free and confidential consultation.
The severity of the injuries that passengers commonly sustain in car accidents varies, but often consist of:
Brain and Head Injuries – Traumatic brain injuries, concussions, skull fractures, and internal bleeding can lead to serious life-changing effects. They also may not be immediately apparent following a collision.
Spinal Cord Injuries – A spinal injury can limit movement, possibly causing numbness or paralysis.
Neck and Back Injuries – Whiplash frequently occurs due to the impact of the collision. Herniated discs, sprains, and strains are also common. However, these types of injuries can sometimes take a few days or weeks to be noticeable.
Broken Bones – Severe fractures may even require surgery, and can take a great deal of time to heal.
Burn Injuries – Burns are extremely painful and often lead to scarring. Depending on the degree, they may require skin grafting.
Facial Injuries – Lacerations and other facial injuries may leave scars and require cosmetic surgery.
These types of injuries can inhibit your ability to work and perform everyday tasks, which can ultimately lower your quality of life.
The types and amount of compensation you receive will typically depend on the circumstances of the collision, and the extent of your injuries. Potential types of compensation may include:
Dealing with an, or multiple, insurance companies can be incredibly overwhelming and confusing. Especially if you are dealing with painful and traumatic injuries. A Phoenix car accident attorney can and will deal with insurance companies on your behalf, while working hard to afford you the highest amount of compensation for your injuries.
A passenger has the ability to file a claim under the at-fault driver’s car insurance policy, or what is known as a third-party claim. The only difference between it and any other type of car accident claim is that you may be able to file one against both drivers’ insurers. This is typically what occurs if it was a two-car accident, unless one of the drivers was clearly not at fault. Since Arizona is a fault-based state, a settlement can be negotiated once you are healed, or once you have improved as much as you are capable of.
If you were injured in an accident as a passenger in a ride-sharing vehicle, the claim process will differ slightly, as the driver’s employer will typically be responsible for damages.
(602) 726-0747 for help from one of our Phoenix passenger injury lawyers at Torgenson Law. Our Phoenix personal injury lawyers will evaluate your case in a free consultation and discuss your rights to compensation.