Passenger Injury Claims
When a car accident happens, most people focus on the drivers. But passengers can be seriously injured too, and many aren’t sure what rights they have or who they can turn to for help. Recently, David Greene joined Studio 10 to explain how
passenger injury claims work here in Alabama.
Let’s start simple. If you’re hurt while riding as a passenger, can you automatically bring a claim against the driver of the vehicle you were in?
Not necessarily, and that surprises a lot of people. Alabama has what’s called the Guest Statute. In many situations, it limits a passenger’s ability to recover from the driver of the vehicle they were riding in, even if that driver may have been negligent.
Why would the law work that way?
The idea behind it is old, and it was meant to prevent lawsuits between friends or family members who were sharing a ride. But in modern crashes, it can create confusion and make people think they don’t have any options, which often isn’t true.
So passengers may still have a path to recover damages?
Absolutely. Even if a claim against the driver of your vehicle is limited, there may be other sources of recovery. For example, the other driver involved in the crash could be responsible. There may also be insurance coverage available through different policies that people don’t realize exist.
Is figuring that out very complicated?
It can be, because every accident has its own facts. Who caused what, what insurance applies, whether any exceptions to the Guest Statute come into play… those are all things we analyze. That’s why it’s so important for passengers not to assume they’re out of luck.
What’s the biggest mistake injured passengers make?
They often stay quiet because they don’t want to cause trouble for the driver they know. But exploring your options doesn’t automatically mean suing a friend or relative. Most times, it’s really about dealing with insurance coverage.
What do you want viewers to remember if they’re hurt as a passenger?
Don’t guess about your rights. Even with the Guest Statute, there may be ways for you to recover for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A quick conversation with a local attorney, like the lawyers at Greene & Phillips, can help you understand where you stand.
If someone riding as a passenger has been injured and needs answers, how can they reach Greene & Phillips?
You can stop by our office at 51 North Florida Street anytime, no appointment needed. You can also call or text us at 251-300-2000, or fill out a contact form. And as always, if you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you.
