Your Rights as a Passenger Injured in a Car Accident

Car accidents are jarring, frightening events for everyone involved. But as an injured passenger, you might feel particularly helpless. You weren’t driving, you weren’t in control, but you’re the one left dealing with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and the disruption a crash brings to your life.

Fortunately, you have the right to seek compensation for your car accident-related losses as an injured passenger, regardless of which driver was at fault. However, getting the compensation you deserve often requires navigating complex insurance claims and liability issues. That’s where our skilled South Carolina car accident lawyers at L. Morgan Martin can help.

Even if the at-fault driver is someone you know, like a friend or family member, you are still entitled to file a claim. Many passengers hesitate to take legal action in these situations, but keep in mind that you’re not suing them directly. In most cases, your claim is against their auto insurance policy, not their personal finances. Additionally, your South Carolina car accident attorney will be handling the claim, not you.

Your Options for Compensation as an Injured Passenger in South Carolina

As an injured passenger, you may have multiple paths to recover damages, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the insurance coverage involved. First, you can usually make a liability claim against the insurance company of the at-fault driver. This could be the driver of the other vehicle or the driver of the car you were riding in. Liability insurance typically covers medical expenses, lost income, emotional distress, and other related damages.

If more than one driver shares responsibility for the crash, you may have the right to pursue compensation from multiple policies. This is common in multi-vehicle accidents where fault is divided among drivers. If the at-fault driver does not carry enough insurance or none at all, you may be able to turn to uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. If you live in the same household as someone with a UM/UIM policy, you might also be eligible for compensation, depending on the policy’s terms.

Additionally, MedPay or personal injury protection (PIP) benefits may be available, regardless of who is at fault. These benefits can cover immediate medical bills and are paid through the vehicle owner’s insurance.

What Our SC Car Accident Team Can Do for You

Pursuing compensation as a passenger may sound straightforward, but legal and insurance complications often arise. Insurance companies may try to shift blame or pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement. A South Carolina car accident attorney will know how to push back and fight for a full and fair recovery for you. They can:

• Identify all sources of compensation by investigating liability, policy limits, and available coverage.
• Negotiate with insurance adjusters who may downplay your injuries or delay your claim.
• Advocate for full compensation that reflects not just your current losses but future medical needs, pain and suffering, and long-term impact on your life.

Reliable Accident Attorneys Fight for Injured Passengers

Whether your injuries were minor or life-altering, you shouldn’t have to pay the price for someone else’s negligence. Learn how our South Carolina car accident lawyers at L. Morgan Martin can secure your compensation by scheduling your free case evaluation online or at (843) 248-3177.