Many people use alternative methods of transportation to get to where they need to be. Often times, this includes getting a ride from someone else. This may be a family member, a friend, or a taxi. Usually, people do so without worrying about risking their life. However, accidents do happen and it is always crucial to be cautious of a driver before going somewhere with them. If the driver acts negligently, it can cause an accident. This can potentially cause life-changing injuries to any passengers.
When this happens, the injured passenger may want to hold the negligent driver responsible for their injuries. In doing so, they may be eligible to receive compensation for damages incurred as a result of the accident.
What to Do After an Accident
It is crucial for those involved in a car accident to seek immediate medical attention. In addition to this, they should contact law enforcement to report the accident and begin the documentation process. This allows them to determine any acts of negligence as well as establish any witnesses present to the accident.
Accidents are not always caused by negligence. However, it is a possibility and must be looked into. When negligence does cause an accident, the injured passenger may want to hold them responsible. To do so, they must prove that any parties involved were negligent, thus causing the accident and their injuries. There are many different forms of driver negligence that can cause an accident. This may include:
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Reckless driving or speeding
- Carelessness
- Drowsy driving
- Texting and driving
Recovering Damages
When someone’s negligence causes an accident, they may be required to provide the injured party with compensation. During an accident, injured passengers may suffer different types of trauma. Because of this, they may be able to receive economic and non-economic damages. This exists to cover any physical, emotional, and financial burdens that occurred as a result of the accident.
Economic damages cover any financial burdens due to the accident. This can consist of the injured’s medical expenses, lost wages, lost future wages, medical equipment, and any possible outside assistance. Non-economic damages provide them with compensation for non-financial burdens. This can include emotional distress, loss of independence, and pain and suffering. If the accident resulted in the passenger’s death, their family may be able to recover compensation for wrongful death.
Contact our Firm
The experienced personal injury and medical malpractice attorneys at Trombly & Singer, PLLC are prepared to represent clients facing legal matters after being injured due to another person’s negligence. If you require strong legal representation in Washington D.C. or Maryland, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
