When an accident occurs, many believe the driver will take the “brunt” of the collision. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.
Drivers are at the steering wheel, and the dashboard can help protect them when an accident occurs. Passengers do not have this same protection – especially those in specific parts of the vehicle. While airbags may provide some protection in a collision, they can also cause injuries.
This makes it extremely likely that when a Fort Worth accident occurs, passengers will sustain injuries.
If you are injured as a passenger in a Fort Worth car accident, you may wonder what rights you have to recover compensation. At Patterson Law Group, we understand the impact of accidents is just as serious for passengers as for drivers. We advocate for victim’s rights, helping them seek justice and secure compensation.
Understanding Your Rights as a Passenger in Fort Worth
Navigating the aftermath of a traffic accident as a passenger can be overwhelming. At Patterson Law Group, we empower our clients with knowledge and expert legal representation. Our Fort Worth car accident lawyers are dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Passenger Rights in Texas
In Texas, passengers involved in vehicle accidents have specific rights to protect their well-being and financial stability. Unlike drivers, passengers are seldom considered at fault for collisions.
This distinction is crucial as it typically favors passengers pursuing compensation for injuries, medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Understanding these rights is the first step toward securing just compensation.
Navigating Insurance Claims
Texas operates under a “modified comparative fault” system. This means that you can seek compensation as long as you, as the passenger, are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. However, dealing with insurance companies can be complex. Our team at Patterson Law Group specializes in handling these negotiations, ensuring that insurance companies fulfill their obligations to our clients.
At Patterson Law Group, we believe in informed and compassionate legal support. Our passenger injury attorneys in Fort Worth are here to guide you through every step of your claim, ensuring your rights are protected and your recovery is prioritized. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in this challenging time.
Understanding the Cause of Passenger Injuries in Fort Worth Accidents
Navigating the complexities of passenger injuries in Fort Worth requires understanding the various factors contributing to these unfortunate events. At Patterson Law Group, our team of dedicated Fort Worth passenger injury lawyers is committed to uncovering the truth behind each incident, ensuring our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Common Causes of Passenger Injuries
Passenger injuries in Fort Worth can arise from many situations, each bringing its own challenges for recovery and legal action. Key contributors include:
- Distracted Driving: Despite laws against texting and driving, distractions remain a leading cause of accidents. The Texas Department of Transportation notes that distracted driving contributed to numerous accidents last year, underscoring the risk to passengers.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Exceeding speed limits and engaging in reckless driving significantly increase the risk of serious accidents. These actions jeopardize the safety of the driver, passengers, and other road users.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Texas, with strict penalties. Nevertheless, impaired driving accidents continue to occur, often resulting in severe passenger injuries.
- Failure to Yield and Other Violations: Traffic rule violations, such as failing to yield the right of way, running red lights, and improper lane changes, are common causes of accidents that can lead to passenger injuries.
Common Passenger Injuries in Fort Worth Accidents
At Patterson Law Group, we understand that passengers (just like drivers) can experience all types of injuries in an accident. While some are minor and heal quickly, others can be life-changing. Some of the most common types of passenger injuries we see include:
- Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Sudden stops or changes in direction often cause whiplash, affecting the neck and back. Soft tissue injuries can also occur, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
- Broken Bones: The force exerted during a crash can easily break or fracture bones. Such injuries may require extended recovery periods and can significantly impact a passenger’s quality of life.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), concussions, and other head injuries are particularly concerning. They can result from the head striking an object or the violent shaking of the crash, leading to long-term cognitive and physical issues.
- Lacerations and Bruises: Broken glass, metal fragments, and the sheer force of collision can cause deep cuts and bruising, which, while sometimes considered minor, can lead to significant blood loss or infections.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These are among the most severe injuries a passenger can sustain, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. The impact on the victim’s life and family can be profound and lifelong.
The impact of these injuries can have short- and long-term effects. We can help victims understand their rights and ensure they recover the compensation they deserve.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group?
At Patterson Law Group, we provide representation for accident victims, ensuring they get the best chance to make a successful claim. Some of the reasons to come to us for help with your passenger injury claim include:
- Expertise and Experience: Our team of Fort Worth passenger injury lawyers brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success in representing injured passengers.
- Personalized Attention: We understand that each case is unique. Our approach is tailored to the individual needs and circumstances of each client, ensuring personalized and effective legal representation.
- Commitment to Clients: Our primary goal is the well-being and satisfaction of our clients. From the initial consultation to the final resolution, we stand by our clients every step of the way.
- No Fees Unless We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning our clients pay no upfront fees. Our fees are only collected if we secure a settlement or win at trial, aligning our success with that of our clients.
Taking the First Step Towards Recovery
Recovering from a passenger injury can be a long and challenging journey, but you don’t have to face it alone. Patterson Law Group is here to provide the legal support and guidance you need.
If you or a loved one has been injured as a passenger in a vehicle accident in Fort Worth, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you take the first step towards recovery and securing the compensation you deserve.
For more information or to schedule a consultation with a Fort Worth injury lawyer, visit our website or call us directly. Our team is ready and eager to support you through this challenging time.