Being a passenger involved in an automobile accident can leave one feeling helpless, as passengers have no way to avoid a crash. However, when it is time to file a claim for injuries, a passenger may find it easier to recover than if they’d been behind the wheel. Here, passengers will learn whom they can sue after an auto accident.
Both Drivers can Share Liability in a Multi-Car Crash
In accidents involving more than one driver, determining fault can be a major legal issue. As a passenger, any injury claim that’s made would likely be filed against both motorists, which means that at least one of them will be found responsible for damages. However, although parties may share liability, the victim may not be able to recover the full amount of damages from each motorist. In some cases, victims can only recover according to each party’s share of fault.
Vehicle Owners, Manufacturers and Government Entities May be Responsible
There is a range of other potentially liable parties in auto accident cases, such as vehicle owners, auto manufacturers, and the state or local government agency tasked with maintaining the roadway upon which the crash occurred. Determining liability can be difficult, but an Automobile Injury Lawyer in Melrose MA can help find the responsible party.
If the Passenger and Driver are Related
If a victim lives with or is related to a driver involved in an accident, he or she cannot pursue a claim against that person’s liability insurance. In such a situation, relatives and household members are usually considered as being covered by the policy, and an insured person cannot pursue a claim against the policy that covers them. An auto accident attorney can provide more information on these situations.
The Claims Process
In most auto accidents, the victim seeks compensation from the responsible or negligent party; this does not always mean that a lawsuit will take place. An Automobile Injury Lawyer in Melrose MA will file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer on behalf of his/her client. In some cases, the insurer and the attorney can agree on a settlement before the case makes it to court. In the event of a lawsuit the at-fault driver is personally named, but his/her insurer is legally obligated to cover the settlement up to the policy limit. When passengers are injured in an accident, the Law Offices Of Burton J. Hass can provide help and advice.
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