Jason Stephens | February 2, 2024 | Car Accidents
Car accidents are often traumatic experiences. Passengers involved in such accidents can suffer from serious injuries and emotional distress.
In Texas, liability insurance is required. Understanding the basics of personal injury claims is important to determine the potential compensation after a car accident.
What Is Liability Insurance?
In simple terms, liability insurance is a safety net that drivers are legally obliged to have. This safety net provides financial protection for the driver and anyone who may be harmed in an accident they cause. Liability insurance helps cover the costs that may arise when someone gets injured or property gets damaged because of the driver’s actions.
Liability insurance comprises two main components: bodily injury and property damage liability coverage. Here’s what each of these types covers:
Bodily injury liability coverage is meant to pay for the medical expenses and related costs of individuals injured in an accident caused by the insured driver. If you’re a passenger in a car involved in an accident, this coverage could come into play to help cover your medical bills.
On the other hand, property damage liability coverage is designed to handle the repair or substitute costs for any property damaged in the accident. This includes other damaged vehicles or objects. If your personal belongings or the car you were traveling in suffered damage, this coverage could be relevant.
Severity of Injuries
The degree, scope, and severity of the injuries sustained by the passenger play a significant role in determining the compensation amount. Severe injuries, including crushing injuries, head injuries, and spinal cord injuries, result in higher compensation.
Medical Expenses
Passengers can seek compensation for medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any relevant ongoing medical care. Ensuring that all medical costs are documented is crucial for a fair settlement.
Lost Wages
If the passenger cannot earn a livelihood because of the accident, they may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This incorporates current and future income that the individual would have earned if not for the accident.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation is not limited to economic damages passengers sustain. Passengers can also seek compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the accident’s impact on their quality of life.
Insurance Policies
The at-fault driver’s insurance policies and, in some cases, your insurance coverage can impact your compensation. If the at-fault driver’s insurance isn’t sufficient to cover all your expenses, your insurance policy may come into play. Your insurance adjuster will communicate with you about what can be covered.
Proving that the at-fault driver’s negligence led to the accident and your injuries is crucial to securing compensation. Your attorney will gather evidence to show the driver’s responsibility.
Steps to Take After an Accident:
If you are a passenger involved in a car accident, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Seek Medical Attention
- Report the Accident
- Collect Evidence
- Consult an Attorney
Knowing how compensation works for passengers involved in car accidents can be crucial for ensuring you receive the financial support you need during a challenging time. Understanding the role of liability insurance and the various factors that influence the compensation amount can empower you to make informed decisions if you ever find yourself in such a situation.
Remember that consulting with an experienced lawyer can be a valuable step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
A Fort Worth Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Pursue Compensation
The specific compensation a passenger can receive after a car accident in Fort Worth, TX, depends on various factors. These include the severity of injuries and liability. However, it’s crucial to remember that seeking legal representation can make a considerable difference in the outcome of your case.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm In Fort Worth, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth and need legal help, contact our Fort Worth car accident lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 300
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000