Auto accidents (even minor ones) can lead to serious consequences. Everyone inside the vehicle is at risk of injuries when a collision occurs. Unfortunately, some don’t realize that anyone who sustains an injury in an accident has the legal right to seek compensation from the responsible party (or parties).
This includes passengers in all vehicles involved.
Unfortunately, cases involving passenger injuries are often complex and confusing. Having help from a knowledgeable San Antonio passenger injury lawyer is recommended to ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
At Patterson Law Group, we can help victims during this challenging time. Contact us today to schedule a risk-free consultation.
Types of Passenger Injuries
Just like drivers, passengers can suffer all types of injuries in an accident, ranging from minor to severe. Some of the most common include:
Whiplash and Fractures
One of the most common injuries passengers face in accidents is whiplash. This happens when your head snaps back and forth quickly, like in a rear-end car collision.
It can cause neck pain, stiffness, and sometimes longer-lasting issues. Fractures, or broken bones, are also frequent.
Imagine you’re in a car that gets hit from the side. Your arm might slam against the door, resulting in a fracture.
Head Trauma
Accidents can lead to serious head injuries. If your vehicle rolls over or is hit hard, your head might hit the window, dash, or another hard surface. This can cause concussions or more severe forms of head trauma.
Emotional Distress
Beyond physical injuries, being in an accident can be a traumatic experience leading to emotional distress. This might include feelings of anxiety, depression, or even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Injury Scenarios
Passengers can get hurt in car crashes, public transportation mishaps, or rideshare accidents. For instance, if you’re taking a city bus that gets into an accident, you might experience any of the injuries described above.
Similarly, if you’re using a rideshare service in a collision, you’re just as susceptible to injuries as in any other vehicle.
If you’ve been injured as a passenger due to another’s negligence, know that the law is on your side. You can demand compensation for your injuries if the incident occurred in a private car, public transport, or rideshare vehicle.
This might cover various damages, including medical bills, loss of earnings, and the emotional toll the accident has taken on you.
How Patterson Law Group Can Assist
At Patterson Law Group, we’re committed to standing by injured passengers. Our knowledge of personal injury law means we’re well-equipped to champion your cause. We prioritize your case from the moment you share your experience with us. We take the burden of negotiating with insurance companies off your shoulders, ensuring they don’t undervalue your claim.
Our Approach to Protecting Your Rights
Our process begins with a thorough consultation, inviting you to tell your story in a supportive environment. Understanding the specifics of your case enables us to pursue the most effective legal strategy.
Immediate Steps After Experiencing a Passenger Injury
If you’ve been injured as a passenger, it’s crucial to follow a set of immediate steps to ensure your safety and strengthen any potential legal claim you might have.
Here’s what you need to do:
Seek Medical Attention
Your health is paramount. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seeing a healthcare provider is essential. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent. A medical professional will document your injuries, which is vital for legal action.
Document Everything
Take notes and pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and anything else that might be relevant. This includes the contact information of witnesses, the vehicle’s registration details, and the name and badge number of any attending police officers.
Avoid Discussing the Incident with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies might contact you, aiming to settle the matter quickly. However, it’s important not to discuss the incident or agree to anything without legal representation. Your attorney will handle all communications, ensuring your best interests are protected.
Contact an Experienced Attorney
Reach out to a personal injury lawyer who specializes in passenger injuries. A qualified attorney can provide invaluable advice, help preserve your rights, and guide you through the legal process.
Preserve Evidence
Keep any physical evidence and documents related to the accident, including medical records and correspondence with insurance companies. This evidence will be crucial in building your case.
Taking these steps after a passenger injury can significantly impact your ability to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Remember, the earlier you start this process, the better your rights will be protected.
Understanding Compensation for Passenger Injuries
When a passenger suffers an injury, the financial, physical, and emotional impacts can be significant. Recognizing the impact is critical to understanding the types of compensation you may be entitled to.
At Patterson Law Group, we analyze every aspect of your case to ensure no stone is left unturned in securing the compensation you rightly deserve.
Types of Compensation Available
Several forms of compensation are available to injured passengers. Each of these is designed to address different aspects of the aftermath of an accident:
Medical Expenses: This includes compensation for both immediate and ongoing medical treatment resulting from your injuries. From emergency room visits to rehabilitation costs, we work to ensure all your healthcare needs are fully covered.
Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss work or have diminished your ability to earn a living in the future, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: This encompasses the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced due to the accident. Though these damages are more subjective, they are no less real, and we fight to capture the full extent of your suffering in our compensation demands.
Punitive Damages: In cases where the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar future conduct.
Our Commitment to Securing Fair Compensation
At Patterson Law Group, our approach goes beyond assessing visible damages. We work with medical professionals, economists, and life care planners to fully quantify the impact of your injuries on your life.
Negotiating with insurance companies is a complex process, and we leverage our experience to advocate for a settlement that reflects the true breadth of your damages. Should negotiations fail to produce a fair settlement, our seasoned litigators are prepared to take your case to court to fight for the justice you deserve.
Protecting Your Rights to Compensation as an Injured Passenger
Navigating the aftermath of a passenger injury demands a comprehensive understanding of your rights and a strategic approach to securing the compensation you deserve. At Patterson Law Group, we are committed to standing by your side through this challenging time, armed with the knowledge and dedication needed to advocate for your best interests.
I was beyond satisfied/happy with Chris and Stef. The firm consistently checked up me and my health progress until the end of the case. Having to have several small medical procedures they were there to guide me on what to do next. I would highly recommend this firm for your legal needs.
Sam
"Tina and the group did a great job getting my bills paid and a great settlement."
First time I have ever been in a car accident and had the best experience ever with Patterson Law group. Tina and the group did a great job getting my bills paid and a great settlement. Thank you so much for all your help.
Rosie
"Couldn’t ask for a better team! "
Couldn’t ask for a better team! Highly recommend anyone in an accident go with Patterson Law Group. They guided me through the whole process and came back with great results.Thank y’all for fighting for me each day.
Christian Melo
"Couldn’t ask for a better team!"
Couldn’t ask for a better team! Highly recommend anyone in an accident go with Patterson Law Group. They guided me through the whole process and came back with great results.Thank y’all for fighting for me each day.
Christian Melo
"They took such a weight off my shoulders. "
I had such an amazing experience with The Patterson Law Group. Diana, Anna, & Tina were amazing to work with. They took such a weight off my shoulders. Highly recommend! They are amazing at what they do!
