What Happens If You’re a Passenger in a Car Accident?
Most of the time, when people think about car accident claims, they picture the driver filing the lawsuit or dealing with insurance. But what if you weren’t behind the wheel?
What if you were a passenger—and you got hurt?
I’ve helped a lot of passengers through this exact situation, and many are surprised to learn that they have just as much right to compensation as anyone else in the car. The process looks a little different, though—so here’s what you need to know if you were a passenger injured in an accident here in Florida.
First Things First: Get Medical Attention
If you’re feeling pain—immediately or in the days after the crash—go see a doctor. You only have 14 days under Florida’s PIP (Personal Injury Protection) law to seek treatment and get your medical bills covered.
Even if you feel “okay,” soft tissue injuries, concussions, or internal damage can take time to show up. Documenting your care early protects both your health and your legal claim.
Whose Insurance Pays If I’m a Passenger?
This is where things get a little technical. In Florida, the no-fault system means PIP coverage applies first, but as a passenger, whose PIP applies depends on a few factors:
✅ If you own a car and have your own auto insurance:
Your own PIP coverage will be the first to cover your medical bills—up to $10,000.
✅ If you don’t have your own auto insurance:
The driver of the car you were in may have PIP coverage that extends to you.
✅ If neither of you have coverage:
You may be able to use MedPay, your health insurance, or pursue a bodily injury claim against the at-fault driver.
What If the Driver of the Car You Were In Was At Fault?
It’s not always easy—but yes, you can file a personal injury claim against the driver even if they were your friend or family member. That doesn’t mean you’re suing them personally—it means you’re filing a claim against their insurance company.
I know this feels uncomfortable for a lot of people, but remember: insurance exists to protect people in exactly these situations. You deserve to be compensated for your injuries—period.
What If the Other Driver Was at Fault?
If the other driver caused the crash, you can pursue a claim against their bodily injury liability policy—just like a driver would.
If both drivers share blame, we may file against both policies, depending on the situation. As your attorney, I’ll handle that side of things so you don’t have to play detective or negotiator.
What Compensation Can a Passenger Receive?
Just like drivers, injured passengers may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Future medical treatment
Loss of quality of life
The key is proving your injuries and connecting them to the crash. That’s where medical records, expert opinions, and legal guidance come in.
Final Thoughts
As a passenger, you didn’t cause the crash—but you’re dealing with the consequences. You deserve answers, support, and compensation for what you’ve been through.
If you were hurt as a passenger in a car accident, call Chatenka Injury Law today for a free consultation.
I’ll help you understand your rights, handle the insurance side of things, and fight to make sure you’re not left paying the price for someone else’s mistake.
