How much money a passenger in a car accident can get varies based on the severity of their injuries, who was at fault, and the available insurance coverage involved in the case.
If you were a passenger during a car crash, you likely had no control over what happened. The law recognizes this. That’s why passengers are rarely ever held responsible for an accident. And that puts you in a strong legal position when it comes to pursuing a personal injury claim with a Kansas City car accident lawyer.
Liability: Who Pays for the Passenger’s Injuries?
Liability simply refers to who is legally at fault for the accident. In most cases, one or more drivers involved will be held responsible. As a passenger, you can file a claim against the person or people who caused the crash.
This might mean filing against the driver of the car you were in, another driver who hit your vehicle, or even both. In some situations, a third party—like a commercial vehicle company or government entity—might share responsibility.
The good news is that passengers can generally pursue compensation from any party whose negligence contributed to the accident.
What Impacts the Value of a Passenger’s Injury Claim?
Every car accident is unique, and the compensation you may receive as a passenger will depend on several important factors.
The Nature and Extent of Your Injuries
One of the most significant elements in determining compensation is the type of injury you suffered and how it has affected your daily life. A passenger with minor bruises will be in a very different position from someone who requires surgery or long-term rehabilitation.
Injuries that limit your ability to work, care for yourself, or enjoy daily activities tend to result in more substantial claims.
Your Medical Care and Recovery Process
The cost, duration, and type of medical treatment you receive will also play a significant role. Emergency room visits, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, medications, and any future care needs are all part of the equation.
Thorough documentation of your treatment is essential for building a strong claim.
Impact on Work and Daily Life
If your injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, your lost income is a recoverable damage. Beyond financial loss, your claim may also consider how the injuries have impacted your emotional well-being, family life, and overall quality of life.
Insurance Coverage
Even if your claim is valid, the total amount you can recover may be limited by the insurance policies in play. The at-fault driver’s insurance, the vehicle owner’s policy, and even your own auto insurance (if applicable) could all be sources of compensation.
A lawyer can help identify all potential policies to maximize your recovery.
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
Common Types of Compensation for Passengers
As an injured passenger, you may be entitled to various types of damages, both financial and non-financial. These typically fall into two broad categories:
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the measurable costs you’ve faced due to the accident. This includes your:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages if you missed work
- Any future costs related to ongoing treatment or reduced ability to earn a living
Non-Economic Damages
These reflect the more personal and emotional consequences of the accident. Pain, suffering, stress, anxiety disorders, loss of enjoyment of life, and other effects don’t come with a receipt. However, they still have a profound impact on your day-to-day life. As such, they can all be included in your claim.
Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?
While it’s possible to handle a minor claim on your own, most passengers benefit from working with an experienced personal injury attorney.
A lawyer can evaluate your case, calculate the actual value of your damages, and deal with the insurance companies on your behalf. In more complicated cases, especially those involving serious injuries, multiple drivers, or unclear liability, legal representation is crucial to ensure your rights are fully protected.
An attorney will also help you identify all sources of compensation, negotiate a fair settlement, and take the case to court if needed.
Get a Free Consultation with Foster Wallace
How much money can a passenger get after a car accident? It varies. At Foster Wallace, we understand that being a passenger in a car accident puts you in an overwhelming and uncertain position. You didn’t cause the crash, but now you’re left to deal with the pain, paperwork, and pushy insurance adjusters. That’s where we come in.
We offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options and what your next steps should be. There’s no risk and no obligation—and you won’t pay us unless we win your case.
If you’ve been injured as a passenger in a car accident and are wondering how much money you can get, contact Foster Wallace today. Let our team pursue the compensation and peace of mind you need to move forward. It’s your injury, but it’s our fight.
