If you’ve been involved in a car accident and suffered an injury as a result, it is not only the driver of the car that can claim, but the passenger as well. This not only include transport such as cars, vans, and motorcycles, but also public transport such as trains and buses too. In any vehicle accident where it was not your fault, it is likely that you are eligible to make a claim.
The driver of the vehicle you are in has a duty to do everything they can to avoid an accident occurring however you also have certain responsibilities as a passenger. If you are in a car, taxi or coach where there are seatbelts available and you are over 14 years of age, it is your responsibility to ensure that you are wearing it. If you were to suffer whiplash for example as a result of not wearing a seatbelt, then you may find that you are unable to make a claim at all.
As a passenger you should also bear in mind that you must not distract the driver and where the necessary safety gear where applicable – such as riding pillion on a motorbike. These are your responsibilities.
There are a range of injuries that you may be able to claim on as a passenger. From minor injuries such as slight shoulder pain or whiplash, through to loss of limbs – anything that has affected your daily routine, ability to work or will be an on-going injury can generally be claimed against.
In order to establish whether you have a case as a passenger to make a personal injury claim, it is a good idea to contact a firm of personal injury solicitors. Many offer free consultations in order to better understand your case and take down the main details. They will be able to answer any questions you have.
For many personal injury claims, your solicitor will be able to offer a no win no fee arrangement. This means that people who might not otherwise be able to afford to make a personal injury claim can do so – but do be aware that if you do not win your case, you could still end up covering the defending party’s legal fees.
Passengers are often overlooked when it comes to personal injury claims. If you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident as a passenger where it was not your fault, contact a solicitor to see if you might have a claim.
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