Car crashes often lead to injuries and damages along with disputes over the legal ramifications for both drivers. However, any resident of Texas injured in a car accident as a passenger may also be entitled to legal redress of their own. Ultimately, which driver was at fault will play the most prominent role in determining the passenger’s action.
If the other driver was at fault
If you were involved in a car accident as a passenger and the other car’s driver was at fault, you’re probably best off filing a claim against that driver’s insurance policy. Remember, most states require a minimum amount of car insurance from all drivers. Generally speaking, that baseline level of insurance includes bodily injury liability and property damage liability. If the other driver was at fault, you’re probably entitled to benefits from these policies, but not every auto accident is cut-and-dried. A personal injury lawyer can often help navigate the trials and tribulations of post-accident insurance claims.
Filing a claim against the driver of the car you were in
If you are in a state where first-party-benefits insurance is mandatory, you can file a claim against your driver’s insurance plan, even if the driver of your car wasn’t at fault. However, only 12 states require first-party benefits, so there’s a chance you’ll have to go through their liability insurance. Remember, it’s not your friend’s money you’re after. You’re seeking compensation for damages and medical bills from their insurance company.
Using your policy
Using your auto insurance policy may not seem logical, given that you weren’t driving. However, if your insurance has personal injury protection or medical payments coverage, filing against your policy may be the best option for covering immediate, costly expenses. Once you’ve used up your auto insurance benefits, you may be able to utilize your health insurance to cover any remaining medical bills.
Always be prepared
Health insurance and auto insurance are your best defenses against the costs of an auto accident. However, if you sustained injuries as a passenger in a car accident, it may be a good idea to retain an experienced personal injury lawyer.
