If you were a passenger in a car accident, you may be wondering who’s responsible for your injuries and whether you have the right to sue. The short answer is yes, as an injured passenger in Arizona, you have legal rights. But figuring out who to sue and how to recover compensation can be complex.
At GLG Personal Injury Lawyers, our experienced Phoenix injury lawyers help passengers navigate the aftermath of car crashes, understand Arizona’s laws, and pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
This guide breaks down what every passenger in Arizona should know, and the practical steps you can take to protect your rights after an accident.
Your Rights as a Passenger in Arizona
Passengers are generally considered innocent parties in a car accident. Unlike drivers, you don’t control the vehicle, meaning you’re rarely at fault. Whether you were in the driver’s car, another vehicle, or even a rideshare like Uber or Lyft, you may have a valid personal injury claim against one or more parties.
At GLG Personal Injury Lawyers, we can help you determine who’s liable and which insurance policies may apply.
Who Can You Sue as a Passenger?
Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to sue:
1. The Driver of the Vehicle You Were In
If your driver caused the accident, for example, by speeding, texting, or running a red light, you can typically file a claim against their insurance policy.
It may feel uncomfortable suing someone you know, but in most cases, their insurance company pays the claim, not them personally.
2. The Other Driver Involved
If another vehicle caused the crash, you can file a claim against that driver’s insurance provider for your injuries.
3. Both Drivers
When both drivers share fault, you may pursue claims against multiple parties. Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover damages even if multiple people contributed to the accident.
An experienced Arizona accident attorney can evaluate all possible sources of compensation and ensure no avenue is overlooked.
What if the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured or Underinsured?
Unfortunately, some Arizona drivers lack sufficient insurance. If that happens, you might still have options:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage: If you carry this on your own policy, or the driver of your vehicle does, you can file a claim under that coverage.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Though not mandatory in Arizona, some policies offer PIP or MedPay coverage to help with medical expenses.
- Civil lawsuit: In serious cases, your Phoenix injury lawyer can file a lawsuit directly against the at-fault driver to seek damages beyond insurance limits.
What Damages Can a Passenger Recover?
As an injured passenger, you’re entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical bills (emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation)
- Lost wages and diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
The goal of your personal injury attorney in Phoenix, Arizona, is to ensure every loss, financial, physical, and emotional, is fully accounted for.
How Fault Is Determined in Passenger Injury Claims
Arizona’s comparative fault system plays a key role in determining compensation. Each party involved in the accident is assigned a percentage of fault.
As a passenger, you’re typically not assigned fault, but in rare cases, such as distracting the driver or knowingly getting into a car with an intoxicated person, your compensation could be reduced.
A skilled Phoenix injury lawyer will gather evidence to show you were not responsible and to hold the correct parties accountable.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident as a Passenger
Taking the right steps after an accident can make or break your claim. Here’s what to do:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel okay, internal injuries or concussions may not be obvious right away. Always get checked by a doctor; your medical records will serve as vital evidence.
2. Gather Evidence
Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and visible injuries. Collect the contact and insurance information for all drivers involved and any witnesses.
3. Don’t Give Statements to Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters may contact you for a statement. Avoid speaking with them until you’ve consulted a Phoenix injury lawyer. Anything you say can be used to minimize your claim.
4. Keep Track of All Expenses
Save receipts, medical bills, prescriptions, and documentation for missed workdays. These details strengthen your demand for fair compensation.
5. Contact an Experienced Arizona Accident Attorney
Navigating multiple insurance companies and liability issues can be overwhelming. Your attorney will handle all negotiations and communications, ensuring your rights are protected.
Special Situations: Rideshare and
If you were a passenger in an Uber, Lyft, taxi, or company vehicle, your case may involve multiple insurance layers.
For instance:
- Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft have up to $1 million in coverage for passengers injured during active rides.
- Commercial vehicles (like delivery trucks or company cars) often carry large insurance policies and may involve corporate liability.
A knowledgeable personal injury attorney in Phoenix, Arizona, will know how to navigate these situations and file claims against all responsible parties.
What If the Driver Were a Friend or Family Member?
Many passengers hesitate to file a claim if the at-fault driver is a loved one. But remember, you’re not suing them personally; you’re filing a claim against their insurance policy.
Auto insurance exists for exactly this purpose: to protect victims, including passengers, from financial loss after an accident. Your claim ensures you get the care and support you need without creating unnecessary conflict.
Why You Need a Phoenix Injury Lawyer
Car accident cases involving passengers can become legally complicated, especially when multiple drivers, insurance companies, or rideshare policies are involved.
A skilled Arizona accident attorney will:
- Investigate all parties and insurance policies involved
- Gather evidence like police reports, witness statements, and medical records
- Negotiate with insurers to secure fair compensation
- File a lawsuit if the insurance offer is unfair or delayed
- Handle all legal deadlines and paperwork
At GLG Personal Injury Lawyers, our mission is simple: to protect your rights, maximize your recovery, and make the process as stress-free as possible.
Why Choose GLG Personal Injury Lawyers
GLG Personal Injury Lawyers is dedicated to representing Arizona accident victims, including injured passengers, with compassion and determination. We have helped countless clients recover fair compensation for their injuries, medical bills, and emotional suffering.
Here’s what you can expect from our team:
- Personalized representation: You’re never just a case number.
- Open communication: We keep you informed every step of the way.
- Aggressive advocacy: We fight hard against insurance companies trying to undervalue your claim.
- No upfront fees: You pay nothing unless we win your case.
Contact GLG Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you were injured as a passenger in an Arizona car accident, don’t assume you’re powerless. You have legal rights, and our team is ready to fight for them.
Contact GLG Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with a trusted personal injury attorney in Phoenix, Arizona. Let’s work together to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
