Passengers Injured In Car Accidents

While the safety features on vehicles advance, most manufacturers have focused on protecting drivers while leaving passenger safety systems deficient. Consequently, passengers often suffer the brunt of injuries. Depending on the circumstances that led to the accident, passengers may be able to hold the drivers of the cars they were in, drivers of other vehicles involved, manufacturers of defective vehicles or parts, and government entities responsible for their injuries.

Common Passenger Injuries

During even minor accidents, passengers’ bodies can be subjected to powerful forces, such as unexpected acceleration, abrupt stopping, and extreme rotation. Depending on where a passenger was sitting, the type of accident, and the speed of the vehicles, the severity of their injuries can vary substantially. For example, passengers seated in the front are more likely to hit their heads on dashboards and suffer traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The risk of backseat passengers suffering whiplash or spinal injuries is significantly higher, especially during rear-end crashes. In the event of a side-impact collision, passengers sitting on the impacted side of the vehicle are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, passengers can suffer a broad spectrum of other injuries and complications, including:

1. Strains and muscle tears;
2. Deep cuts and lacerations;
3. Shoulder and knee injuries;
4. Fractured and broken bones;
5. Amputation;
6. Life-long disfigurement; 
7. Permanent disability; and
8. Wrongful death. 

Compensation For Wounded Passengers 

Fortunately, under New York law, injured passengers can pursue compensation for their costly hospital bills, lost wages, and other losses in the same manner that drivers are entitled to seek damages. All motorists owe their passengers a duty of reasonable care to prevent all unnecessary collisions and resulting injuries. Victims of car accidents can file personal injury claims against those whose negligence contributed to the crash. Typically, passengers can claim compensation against drivers for:

1. Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol;
2. Reckless driving; 
3. Road rage;
4. Distracted driving;
5. Taking a turn too fast;
6. Tailgating;
7. Speeding; or
8. Driving without an active license.

Although you may feel uncomfortable and even guilty about bringing a claim against a friend or co-worker, the driver’s insurance policy is intended to compensate you for your injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to ensure that you obtain the maximum compensation without it coming at the expense of your acquaintance.  

Touch Base With The Best Car Accident Lawyers At The Dietrich Law Firm P.C.

If you have been searching for a highly-qualified personal injury attorney to handle your case, look no further. We will adequately prepare for all possibilities with our battle-tested attorneys litigating your personal injury claim. Jed Dietrich, Esq. and his team of car accident attorneys have decades of experience helping injured passengers obtain unsurpassed outcomes, including a $1,900,000 settlement for a 42-year-old man and his 36-year-old male passenger who both required neck surgeries after being rear-ended by a tractor-trailer. Schedule your completely confidential, no-obligation consultation and case evaluation today! Contact us twenty-four-seven by dialing 716-839-3939 to learn more about how our veteran team will battle to protect your legal right to compensation.