Can Injured Passengers Recover Compensation After a Car Accident?

Not everyone has their driver’s license or a vehicle to get to where they need to be. It is because of this that they may enlist a relative, friend, or car service to get to where they need to be. In doing so, they usually trust the driver will be safe. However, it is possible for driver negligence to cause a serious accident. This can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial damages for a passenger. It is because of this that passengers can hold a driver liable. Continue reading below to learn more and contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney for assistance with your case.

What are Common Causes of Car Accidents?

Driver negligence is a common cause of car accidents in the state of New Jersey. There are many different actions that are considered negligence, including the following:

  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Reckless driving or speeding
  • Carelessness
  • Drowsy driving
  • Texting and driving

What Do I Do After an Accident?

After an accident happens, there are certain steps that should be taken. This can begin by contacting the necessary emergency services immediately. This ensures that injured parties can receive medical attention and law enforcement can draft an official police report. In addition to this, victims should gather their own evidence. This can include pictures or videos of the scene, gathering witness testimony and contact information, etc. This can all be used in court later on to help prove a claim.

How Can I Recover Compensation?

When an injured passenger wants to pursue legal action after being harmed in a car accident, they must file a personal injury claim. During this time, they are required to prove the driver was negligent and that their behavior was the direct cause of the injuries they sustained. If they are successful, the injured passenger can recover compensation for damages. This can be economic and non-economic. Economic damages cover any financial burdens, such as medical expenses, lost wages, lost future wages, medical equipment, and more. Non-economic damages are for non-financial burdens, such as emotional distress, loss of independence, pain and suffering, and more. 

Contact our Firm

 If you have been injured as a result of a defective product and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.