Each year, there are six million car accidents and more than three million significant injuries resulting from them. But accidents and injuries don’t only happen to the drivers of vehicles. They also happen to passengers.
If you were a passenger in car accident, you probably wonder what your rights are. What can you do to receive payment for medical bills? Continue reading to learn the steps you should take as a passenger after a vehicle accident has occurred.
Remain At the Car Accident Scene
All involved parties are legally required to remain at the car accident scene. This doesn’t apply only to the drivers of the vehicles, but also all passengers from either vehicle. Failure to stay at the car accident scene is subject to fines or even criminal charges.
Check For Injuries
Before moving out of the vehicle, check yourself for injuries and then move on to check everyone else. Do you feel any severe pain? Can you move safely?
Call 9-1-1 (if Necessary)
If nobody has called 9-1-1 yet, you should do it as soon as possible. The sooner you call, the sooner emergency personnel can be at the accident scene and help everyone involved.This also ensures an official police report is created. This document can be essential if your case goes to court or if you need to file an insurance claim. This document has many names depending on where the accident happened. For example, if the accident happened in Texas, you must file a TxDOT crash report within ten days of the incident.
Receive Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel like you’re injured, it’s important to allow emergency medical staff to check you over. Many injuries resulting from accidents aren’t immediately apparent, but trained professionals may notice warning signs. The adrenaline rushing through your body after an accident can also numb pain.
Cooperate With Police
When the police arrive at the accident scene, they’ll want to get statements from both drivers and any passengers. It’s essential to cooperate with them and answer all questions honestly.
Exchange Information With Both Drivers
It isn’t only the drivers of the involved vehicles who should exchange information, but also passengers. You’ll want to get the license plate number, contact information, and insurance information of both drivers.
File an Insurance Claim
The passenger in car accident can file an insurance claim to cover any injuries. They may also be able to get monies for missed work due to injuries in some cases.
Don’t feel bad filing an insurance claim if a friend or family member is driving the vehicle because the money doesn’t come out of their pocket. If you receive significant injuries, you’ll want to hire an attorney to help you with the claim process.
More Questions About Being a Passenger in Car Accident?
Being a passenger in car accident can be frightening and overwhelming. But following the steps above can help you understand what to do should this unfortunate event occur. Remember that even passengers can file an insurance claim, so you don’t have to be stuck with paying your medical bills.
Do you have more questions about being a passenger in car accident?
Look at our other posts. You’ll find blogs on car accidents and related topics to help you learn more on the subject.
