The constant rush of daily life can make driving on the roads feel inherently risky, and being a passenger in an accident only amplifies the anxiety. It’s an unsettling experience to understand that while you weren’t in control of the vehicle yet, you were facing injuries, mounting medical bills, and lost wages. In such critical situations, one may wonder—how much money can the passenger get in a car accident in Chicago?
Unfortunately, there’s no definite answer. The amount paid as compensation to the passenger isn’t out of the driver’s pocket; instead, it’s his insurance company that takes care of all legal proceedings.
This blog post aims to direct you through the complexities of navigating compensation after a Chicago car accident. The legalities of such claims are handled by a state-specific Chicago Car Accident Lawyer
Common Injuries That Car Passengers Suffer
Car crashes are dangerous, and passengers are at high risk of getting hurt. The kind of injuries and how bad they are depend on several things, like the type of wreck, how fast the vehicles were going, and the safety measures being practiced. Here’s a look at some of the most common injuries passengers experience in car accidents:
- Traumatic Brain Injury: injury caused when the head strikes something or when something breaks open the skull and passes through.
- Soft-Tissue Injury: don’t underestimate soft-tissue injuries – even sprains and strains, with the best treatment, can leave you in chronic pain. Recovering from these injuries can be time-consuming and involves expensive treatments like physical therapy, medication, etc.
- Whiplash: it is a common injury that happens when your head strikes back and forth suddenly, straining your neck muscles and ligaments. This can lead to headaches, stiffness, and neck pain.
Does Insurance Cover Injured Passengers in Chicago
As a passenger in a car accident in Chicago, you have the right to seek compensation regardless of who caused the accident.
- If the driver is a family member – you can still sue their insurance company, and they’re bound to offer compensation.
- If a friend or relative caused the accident – you can still sue their insurance company.
- Or if someone else is at fault – you can file claims with the insurance company of the driver at fault.
At points of crucial legalities, it’s important to seek help from a Chicago personal injury attorney because of the complexities that may arise in claims. Moreover, the insurance company may deny your claims, undervalue your injuries, or offer insufficient settlements to minimze their payout. So, an experienced personal injury attorney can advocate for you, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Compensation for Passengers in a Chicago Crash
Recent statistics reveal that roughly 6,000 accidents in a year involve passengers. And those who survive a car crash in Chicago may suffer significant physical injuries and emotional distress.
While an exact compensatory amount can’t be identified, several factors significantly impact the potential compensation you might receive.
Medical Expenses
These include all documented costs associated with your medical care following the accident, including consultations with physicians, hospitalization, doctor visits, prescriptions, and rehabilitative services.
Lost Wages
In case of long-term rest due to injuries resulting from a crash or missing out on a few days from work, income is compensated. Hence, this way, the recovery period is paid.
Pain and Suffering
Financial compensation is also provided, measuring the extent of physical pain, emotional disturbance, and how the accident has impacted your lifestyle. Mental well-being is hence compensated for this way.
Severity of Injuries
The extent and nature of injuries one suffers greatly influence the potential compensation awarded. More serious, life-altering injuries typically result in a greater award compared to minor transient injuries.
Who is Liable for an Injured Person’s Losses
For a passenger to receive compensation, it’s first essential to identify who was responsible for the crash. Sometimes, multiple parties must be held accountable for the accident, and liability might be shared among them.
The Driver of Your Vehicle
Even if the person at fault is your loved one, filing a claim goes against their insurance and not them directly. Their insurance covers these situations, ensuring they don’t face personal financial burdens.
Another Driver
If the other driver is accountable, his insurance company covers up all expenses and losses.
Companies
In some cases, the insurance company is directly held responsible for passenger injuries. They increase the insurance policy limits, increasing your chances of receiving full compensation for your loss. Thus, it is advisable to hire an expert Chicago attorney to help better understand the accident car settlement plans.
Final Words
Passengers are at risk of suffering car injuries and could sustain serious or even fatal injuries. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Chicago, you may be eligible for compensation to assist with recovery expenses. To evaluate compensatory options, consult with a qualified personal injury attorney in Chicago and explore the available options.
