Hit by a Car on the Passenger Side of Car

T-bone accidents (also known as side-impact collisions), happen when the side of one vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another vehicle. These accidents are particularly dangerous for passengers on the impacted side. Here’s how they typically happen:

• Car accident hit on passenger side front: Car accidents where the passenger side front of the vehicle is impacted can result in various injuries due to the proximity to the point of impact. These collisions often happen at intersections or in situations where the driver fails to yield.
• Car accident hit on passenger side rear: Rear-impact collisions on the passenger side can cause whiplash and neck injuries, as well as injuries to the upper body and spine. These Car accidents often occur in heavy traffic or stop-and-go situations.

Here are some common types of car accidents that often lead to passenger injuries:

• Rear-end collisions: These occur when one vehicle hits the back of another and are often caused by speeding, distracted driving, and tailgating. Passengers may suffer from whiplash, head injuries, or spinal injuries.
• Head-on collisions: These occur when the front ends of two vehicles hit each other at a combined speed. They are among the most dangerous types of car accidents, often resulting in severe or fatal injuries due to the high impact.
• Rollover accidents: These can be particularly traumatic, as the vehicle flips over onto its side or roof. Passengers are at risk of being thrown around inside the vehicle, leading to multiple injuries.
• Multi-vehicle pileups: These car accidents involve multiple vehicles and can happen on busy roads or highways. They can be very chaotic, making it difficult for passengers to escape injury.
• Sideswipe collisions: These happen when the sides of two vehicles traveling in the same or opposite directions make contact. While they may seem less severe, they can still cause significant injuries, especially if they lead to a loss of control of the vehicle.

When filing a personal injury claim as a passenger, consider the following steps:

• Seek medical attention: The first and most crucial step is to seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms until days later. Early treatment is important for your well-being and your case.
• Collect information: Gather information about the car accident, including the names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved. Take pictures of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
• Report the car accident: Call law enforcement immediately to report the crash. An official accident report can be valuable for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
• Preserve evidence: Preserve any evidence related to your car accident, such as medical records, accident reports, and photographs. This documentation will help support your claim.
• Consult an attorney: It's highly advisable to consult with an experienced lawyer for auto accident personal injury claims. An attorney can provide legal guidance, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests throughout the legal process.

In addition to the specific steps mentioned above, there are general guidelines to follow as a passenger involved in a car accident:

• Remain calm: Stay as calm as possible and avoid confrontations or arguments. Focus on safety and gathering the necessary information.
• Don’t admit fault: Avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Stick to the facts when discussing the incident with others, especially insurance companies.
• Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the car accident, even though you were not driving. They may need to be aware of the situation, especially if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

Am I covered as a passenger in a car accident?

As a passenger in a car accident, you may be covered by various insurance policies, depending on the circumstances. Your potential sources of coverage may include:

• The driver's insurance: If the driver of the vehicle you were in was at fault for the crash, their insurance policy may cover your injuries and damages.
• Your own insurance: If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own insurance policy may provide coverage, particularly through uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
• Other driver's insurance: If another driver was responsible for the crash, you may be able to seek compensation through their insurance policy.

It's important to consult with an attorney who knows how to handle auto accident personal injury claims. They can determine the applicable insurance coverage and explore your options for seeking compensation.

With the guidance of a Law.com Premier Attorney, you can get the justice and compensation you deserve. Our verified attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you can get legal representation without paying any upfront fees. To get started, contact an attorney near you and set up your free case evaluation.