If you or a family member were injured while you were a passenger in a car accident in Fort Worth, what should you do?
The Most Important Thing You Should Do
Get medical treatment as soon as possible. Don’t be so concerned about which driver or insurance company is going to pay your bills that it stops you from getting the required medical assistance. Your injuries and pain will probably get worse, not better.
And if you don’t go to a hospital or doctor, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is certain to argue later that you were not hurt and refuse to pay you any money. It is not fair, but this happens all the time.
Make sure you keep receipts for your medical bills and other expenses, including lost wages and items like medicine, crutches or bandages.
Your injury lawyer will obtain all necessary records and other documents to successfully argue your case.
Damages That Can Be Reimbursed
You are entitled to be reimbursed for your damages including your
- Medical bills
- Loss of wages and job benefits and the capacity to earn a living
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Scarring
There are intricate rules and regulations that control these items.
Who Pays For Your Expenses
That depends. Let’s say that you are seated as a passenger when your car or truck is stopped at a red light when it is hit from the rear. The other driver is clearly 100% responsible for payment of your damages.
But the case can get trickier if your driver suddenly slammed on his or her brakes, perhaps intending to drive through a yellow light but changing his mind at the last second. Or what if a pedestrian darted out in front of them?
Texas law uses a comparative system of comparing the fault of all drivers or other causes of a personal injury. The possible outcomes above can vary greatly, depending on the facts.
Your driver may be your spouse, family member, or close friend. Even if their driving was careless and you were injured, you may be reluctant to file a claim on their insurance company. You may be worried about the effect that may have on their insurance rates. Depending on the facts and company, it may not have any effect. You should discuss with a personal injury lawyer before you decide.
Furthermore, there may be more than one passenger in your or other vehicles. Some drivers may have liability insurance or additional coverage. There may be other insurance policies that can reimburse you. You will not know this information with professional assistance. Even then, the interaction between these moving parts can be tricky.
Working With a Car Accident Attorney
An injury attorney will fight to get the compensation you deserve. They will work with your doctors and negotiate with insurance companies so you can focus on healing.
They will not charge you any fee until they successfully obtain a settlement or court verdict. If no money is paid to you, their services are free.
Contact Berenson Injury Law
If you were injured in a car accident in North Texas and need assistance, Berenson Injury Law can help.
We have successfully recovered money for many people over the past 42 years. Here is an example: https://berensonlaw.com/710,000-car-accident-settlement-announced/
Contact us today to review your case for free. Call or text 1-888-672-0612, or get in touch on our website.