Many innocent bystanders suffer life-altering injuries because a drunk driver caused their accident. Passengers shouldn’t have to worry about legal responsibility for accidents they may be involved in because they almost never cause them. Yet, that doesn’t imply getting paid what they’re owed will be a breeze.
If you were a passenger in an accident caused by a drunk driver, read on to find out how to pursue the compensation you may be owed, and then get in touch with a Cheyenne personal injury attorney.
What Happens When a Passenger Is Hurt Due to Drunk Driving?
Passengers in drunk driving accidents are at risk for a wide range of serious injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain and neck injuries
- Broken teeth and other dental damage
- Disturbed back and aching shoulders
- Accidental injuries caused by the seatbelt or airbag
- Internal bleeding and abdominal trauma
- Trauma to the upper extremities
- Traumatic bone dislocations and fractures
- Disfigurement and scars that can never go away
- Cuts, scrapes, and puncture holes
- Mild to severe injuries to the soft tissues
- Punctures, fractures, and dislocations in the lower extremities
- Blistering from the sun or friction from the road
- Psychological and emotional trauma
- Syndrome of acute stress reaction (PTSD)
- Loss of limb or amputation
- Accidental brain damage (TBIs)
- Illnesses affecting the spinal cord (SCIs)
- Total or incomplete paralysis
When a drunk driver causes an accident, may the passengers receive compensation?
In the event of an accident, passengers have the legal right to seek compensation for their monetary losses, such as medical bills and lost pay due to inability to work, and their non-monetary losses, such as their emotional distress. Even if they were passengers in the vehicle, the drunk driver still poses a threat.
A claim filed by a passenger who knew or should have known that the driver was inebriated may be downplayed or even denied by the insurance company. The passenger’s attorney should be able to counter this claim and fight for full reimbursement.
What Makes a DUI-Certified Lawyer So Important?
Finding all potential sources of compensation is one of the most difficult components of any vehicle accident claim. Injured passengers often settle for much less than they should since they have no idea how much their case is actually worth. An attorney who has dealt exclusively with instances involving drunk driving accidents can advise you on your legal choices and negotiate a settlement that best reflects your situation.