What Passengers Should Do After a Connecticut Car Accident
Being a passenger in a car accident can leave you with questions about who is responsible and how your medical bills will be covered. The good news is that passengers generally have the right to seek compensation for their injuries. The process, however, depends on who was at fault and what insurance coverage is available.
Here’s what you need to know if you were a passenger in a Connecticut car accident.
Can Passengers File a Claim in Connecticut?
Yes. If you were hurt as a passenger, you can file a claim for compensation. The key questions are:
Who caused the accident?
Whose insurance policy applies?
Is there enough coverage to pay for your damages?
The answers to these questions will guide your next steps.
If the Driver of Your Vehicle Is at Fault
It can feel uncomfortable to file a claim against the driver of the car you were riding in—especially if they are a friend or family member. But keep in mind, you are not going after their personal assets. Instead, you are making a claim through their auto insurance policy. That’s exactly why drivers carry insurance to protect both themselves and their passengers in the event of a crash.
If your accident happened in a rideshare vehicle like Uber or Lyft, things get more complicated. You may be able to seek compensation from both the driver and the rideshare company. Coverage depends on whether the driver was logged into the app at the time of the accident. If they were, the rideshare company’s insurance policy may apply.
If the Other Driver Is at Fault
If another driver caused the accident, you can pursue a claim through their insurance company. If both drivers share responsibility, you may be able to recover from both parties.
In Connecticut, this process can be complex. Determining liability and negotiating with insurance companies is not always straightforward, and it often requires legal guidance to make sure your rights are protected.
Medical Bills and Health Insurance
Connecticut is not a no-fault state. This means your health insurance may initially cover the cost of your medical treatment. However, those bills can later be included as part of your damages in a personal injury claim. Any settlement or award would factor in your accident-related medical expenses.
Next Steps for Injured Passengers
If you or a loved one was injured as a passenger in a Connecticut car accident, you don’t have to figure out the claims process on your own.
At Sousa Law, we help injured passengers hold the right parties accountable and pursue the compensation they need to recover. Call us today at (203) 923-8283 for a free consultation.