Car accidents are stressful no matter what, but things get even more confusing when you weren’t the one driving. As a passenger, you might not know what rights you have, who pays for your injuries, or what steps to take next. The good news? You have options—and you’re usually in a better legal position than the driver.
If you were hurt in a crash as a passenger, here’s what you need to know.
First Things First: Get Medical Help
Even if you feel okay after the accident, get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, don’t show up right away but can cause serious problems later. If you wait too long to see a doctor, the insurance company might try to argue that your injuries weren’t caused by the crash.
If the accident was serious, paramedics may have arrived at the scene. If they offer to take you to the hospital, don’t brush it off. Even minor injuries can get worse if they aren’t treated early.
Who’s Responsible for Your Medical Bills?
As a passenger, you weren’t at fault for the accident—but that doesn’t mean the insurance companies will automatically cover your bills. Here’s how it usually works:
- The driver’s insurance (if they were at fault) – If the person driving the car you were in caused the crash, their insurance should cover your medical expenses.
- The other driver’s insurance (if they were at fault) – If another driver was responsible, their insurance should pay for your injuries.
- Your own insurance (if other options don’t work) – If the drivers involved don’t have insurance or don’t have enough coverage, you may be able to use your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
Insurance claims can get messy, especially when multiple people are involved. If you’re unsure where to start, talking to a lawyer can help. Munley Law in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has experience handling these cases and can help you figure out what to do next.
Should You File a Claim?
Yes—if you were injured, you have every right to file a claim. Many passengers don’t realize they can seek compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and even pain and suffering.
But here’s where things can get tricky. If the driver of the car you were in caused the accident, you might have to file a claim against their insurance. This can feel awkward, especially if they’re a friend or family member. It’s important to remember that you’re not suing them personally—you’re just asking their insurance company to cover the costs of your injuries, which is exactly what insurance is for.
If another driver was at fault, your claim would go against their insurance instead. Either way, don’t let guilt or hesitation stop you from getting the help you need.
What If Both Drivers Blame Each Other?
Sometimes, both drivers will insist they weren’t at fault. When this happens, insurance companies may delay paying out any claims until they determine who was responsible. Unfortunately, that could leave you stuck waiting for medical bills to be covered.
If the insurance companies can’t agree, you may need legal help to push things forward. A lawyer can investigate the crash, gather evidence, and negotiate on your behalf so you’re not left paying out of pocket while they argue.
What If the Driver Was a Friend or Family Member?
Filing a claim against someone you know can feel uncomfortable, but it’s important to remember that their insurance exists for situations like this. You’re not trying to take money from them personally—you’re simply using their coverage to pay for your medical expenses and other losses.
Most people understand that car insurance is meant to protect them and their passengers. If you were hurt, don’t hesitate to file a claim just because the driver was a friend or family member.
What If You Were in an Uber or Lyft?
Rideshare accidents work a little differently. If your Uber or Lyft driver was at fault, their company’s insurance should cover you. Here’s how coverage usually works:
- If the rideshare driver was at fault – Uber and Lyft both provide up to $1 million in liability coverage if the driver was on the clock at the time of the crash.
- If another driver was at fault – Their insurance should cover your injuries. If they don’t have enough insurance, Uber or Lyft may still cover you under their underinsured motorist policy.
If a rideshare company refuses to pay, you may need legal help to make sure you get what you’re owed.
What About Lost Wages and Other Expenses?
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to get compensation for lost wages. Other costs, like physical therapy, medical equipment, or even emotional distress, may also be covered.
The amount you can receive depends on the details of the crash, the severity of your injuries, and the insurance policies involved. In some cases, you may need to negotiate or file a lawsuit to get a fair settlement.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
Every state has a deadline for filing car accident claims. In Pennsylvania, for example, you usually have two years from the date of the crash to take legal action. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to seek compensation.
That might sound like plenty of time, but the sooner you start the process, the better. Waiting can make it harder to gather evidence, track down witnesses, and prove your case.
Final Thoughts
Being a passenger in a car accident can leave you feeling powerless, but you do have rights. Your injuries, medical bills, and lost wages shouldn’t be your responsibility when you weren’t the one driving.
If you’re struggling to figure out what to do next, don’t wait too long to get help. Whether it’s dealing with insurance companies, negotiating a fair settlement, or taking legal action if necessary, making the right moves now can make a huge difference in the long run.
