When you and your friend are on your way to dinner in Towson or taking an Uber to enjoy a night out in Baltimore, the last thing you expect is to be involved in an accident. Unfortunately, many focus on what happens to the drivers following a collision, but as a passenger, knowing your rights is just as crucial, especially if you suffered injuries. Luckily, the following blog explores what passengers hurt in a Maryland collision should know about these circumstances and why connecting with Baltimore County car accident attorneys is critical.
Can Passengers Injured in an Accident Seek Compensation in Maryland?
Passengers injured in a Maryland car accident can almost always file a claim against the at-fault driver. Because passengers are rarely considered negligent under Maryland law, they generally have a strong legal right to recover compensation
Unfortunately, the severity of injuries a passenger will sustain depends on several factors regarding the collision. This includes the size of the vehicles involved, where the impact occurred, and how fast the cars were traveling. For example, if a large truck hits a sedan on the passenger side, the injuries will likely be more severe than if a car is rear-ended at a stoplight.
Generally, passengers injured in a collision can file a claim against the negligent party’s insurance for the injuries they sustained because of the accident. In Maryland, any person found even 1% liable for the injuries they inflicted becomes barred from collecting compensation under the state’s contributory negligence law. As a passenger, it is extremely unlikely that you would be found negligent, meaning you will almost always be able to file a claim for the damages you’ve suffered. However, claims may be filed against multiple parties, including the driver of the vehicle, the vehicle owner, and even third parties, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Unfortunately, if the negligent party responsible is a friend or family member driving at the time of the crash, you may hesitate to file a claim. However, it’s important to note that their insurance will be responsible for compensating you, but may use your relationship with the driver to deter you from seeking more considerable compensation, even if it’s what you deserve.
Filing a Claim as a Passenger
- Passengers are eligible to file a claim against the insurance company of the at-fault driver
- You may file claims against multiple parties if liability is shared
- You can recover compensation even if you know the driver personally
- Maryland’s contributory negligence system rarely impacts passengers
- You may be eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, among other damages
In most cases, passengers can sue after a car accident in Maryland or file a claim against the negligent driver to recover compensation for their injuries.
Who Can a Passenger File a Claim Against in Maryland?
If you are injured as a passenger in Eudowood, Ruxton, or any other community in or around Towson and Baltimore County, understanding who can face liability for the damages you have suffered is imperative. In general, you may be able to pursue claims against more than one party, depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Potential Liable Parties
- The driver of the vehicle you were in, if they were negligent
- Another driver was involved in the accident
- Both drivers, if they both shared fault for the collision
- A commercial entity, like a logistics company or rideshare service
- A manufacturer, if a defective vehicle part contributed to the collision
What Causes Car Accidents in Maryland?
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, chatting)
- Driving under the influence
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Disregarding traffic signals
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Driving while fatigued
What Damages Can Injured Passengers Recover?
If you have been hurt as a passenger in a collision in Baltimore County, you may be entitled to compensation for both the financial losses and personal suffering you’ve endured as a result of the collision.
Types of Compensation Available
- Medical bills, including past, current, and future expenses
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Long-term disability
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Property damage
Common Injuries Passengers Experience
- Spinal trauma and back injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Neck injuries, including whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
- Severe burns
- Facial trauma
- Lacerations and contusions
What Should I Do if I’m Hurt as a Passenger in an Accident?
When an accident happens when you are not driving in Baltimore County, understanding your responsibilities following the collision is crucial. Generally, you’ll want to call 911 if you are physically able to. You should inform the operator where the accident occurred and how many people are involved, and request emergency medical technicians at the scene. This allows for your injuries to be examined, which is necessary if you wish to seek compensation.
Additionally, you should understand that it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney. Unfortunately, the insurance company may not be as fair when offering a settlement, so having a lawyer assist you through this process can help you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Steps to Protect Your Claim
- Call 911 to request immediate police and medical presence
- Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor or you feel okay
- Collect the insurance information of the drivers involved
- Obtain the contact information of any witnesses at the scene
- Take photos and videos of the damage to the vehicles and any visible injuries
- Do not discuss the accident with insurance companies before obtaining legal representation
- Do not discuss your accident on social media
- Contact an Experienced attorney as soon as possible
Connect With Our Baltimore County Personal Injury Firm Today
At the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi, our dedicated legal team will do everything possible to help you receive the funds you deserve when you are injured as a passenger in a collision in Towson, Lutehrville, or Baltimore. Contact our team today to learn how we can guide you through this complex process.