Being involved in a traffic accident can be a very frightening experience. Often, it’s the drivers who are the first to be considered after a road traffic accident, but passengers can also suffer the same, and sometimes even more severe injuries than the driver.
You may think that as a passenger of a car, bus or taxi you cannot make a personal injury claim if you’re involved in a road traffic accident. The truth is, you can make a claim for compensation against both the negligence of another party, such as the driver of the vehicle that has crashed into the vehicle you were travelling in, as well as even potentially against the driver of the vehicle you were travelling in if the recklessness of their driving led to the accident taking place.
You can also possibly make a claim depending on the condition of the road and if it has contributed to an accident that doesn’t involve any other vehicles. This can also include poor street or road lighting helping to contribute to causing an accident. These claims will be against the local authority who is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the road conditions.
When estimating the value of personal injury claims, there are usually many factors that need to be considered. The main factors will be the extent and severity of your injuries, and how long it will take you to recover including whether or not you might suffer from ongoing symptoms or chronic pain.
A claim must be brought (submitted to the court) within three years of the date you suffered an injury or three years of you being aware that you have suffered an injury. There is an exception for children under the age of 18 years who have until they reach their 21st birthday to submit their claim to court. Call us today to find out more
There are numerous types of injuries that a passenger can suffer when being involved in a road traffic accident. Injuries suffered by passengers can include:
When you are injured the first thing you should do is seek expert medical care so a doctor can determine the extent of your injuries, provide treatment and hopefully ensure a speedy recovery.
If possible, you should also document the accident scene with photography and report the accident to the police as well to ensure that their testimonial can be used during the claims process if necessary.
Our specialist team of solicitors work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis to get you the compensation you deserve. They will be able to assess your situation and advise you on your next steps and whether to proceed with a claim for compensation.
Our client was a passenger in a vehicle which spun out of control. He suffered a fracture to his forearm, a fractured clavicle, an injury to his eye and a serious psychological reaction. Our client had to interrupt his studies to become a skilled tradesman. He claimed for his past loss of earnings, care and assistance and the future loss to reflect the difficulties he would face in his chosen trade.
Damages awarded: £120,000
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