Summary
Injured as a passenger in a car crash in Los Angeles? You might be eligible for compensation through the driver’s insurance, a third-party claim, or UM/UIM coverage. Learn about timelines, necessary documents, and how a personal injury attorney can boost your chances of recovery and compensation.
Passenger injury claims in Los Angeles can be confusing—especially when you’re hurt and unsure who to turn to. Knowing your legal rights is crucial, whether you’re taking an Uber ride down Sunset Boulevard or a friend is driving through Downtown LA. If you’ve suffered car accident injuries, you could be entitled to compensation—even if you weren’t driving.
In this guide, we’ll explore how passenger injury claims work and what documents you’ll need. We’ll also explain why hiring a personal injury lawyer in California can help protect your rights and secure what you’re owed.
Who Pays for Passenger Injuries in Car Accidents?
If you’re injured as a passenger in a vehicle accident, you typically have multiple paths to compensation. Depending on the circumstances, these are your options:
1. At-Fault Driver’s Insurance
You can file a claim with the insurance provider of the driver who caused the accident—even if that driver was the one operating the vehicle you were in.
2. Third-Party Liability Claim
If another vehicle caused the accident, you can file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance policy. This includes multiple-vehicle traffic accidents.
3. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage
If the at-fault driver doesn’t have adequate insurance, you may still recover damages through your own UM/UIM coverage or that of the car owner, depending on the policy.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
Passenger injury claims may cover:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, follow-ups, rehabilitation)
- Lost income (if you miss work)
- Pain and suffering
- Ongoing medical care or physical therapy
- Emotional distress
- Out-of-pocket costs (prescriptions, medical equipment)
What Documents Do You Need?
To support your claim, gather these key documents:
Document | Why It Matters |
Police accident report | Confirms facts of the incident and the party at fault |
Medical records & bills | Proves medical treatment and ties injuries to the crash |
Proof of lost wages | Demonstrates financial loss |
Insurance policy documentation | Identifies coverage options |
Photos of injuries or the crash site | Offers visual evidence |
When Should You File a Claim?
California has a strict statute of limitations for filing personal injury claims:
- 2 years from the date of the accident
- If the claim is against a government agency (e.g., public transportation), you must file a notice within 6 months
Delaying your claim can affect your eligibility to recover compensation. Even if your injuries initially seem minor, always seek medical attention and speak to a car accident lawyer early.
How to File a Passenger Injury Claim in Los Angeles
- Get medical attention immediately—even for small injuries
- Document everything: medical bills, reports, photos, witness names
- Notify the drivers’ insurance companies involved
- Get a copy of the police accident report
- Consult a personal injury attorney to guide the next steps
- Let your legal team handle negotiations with insurance companies
- Review settlement offer carefully—never sign without legal review
Why Work with a Personal Injury Attorney?
Insurance companies are not always on your side. They may downplay injuries, delay claims, or offer lowball settlements. The best car accident attorney Los Angeles residents trust will:
- Investigate the accident with experts in accident reconstruction
- Handle communication with all parties
- Maximize your compensation by considering both current and future costs
- Work on a contingency fee—you don’t pay unless you win
Whether the crash happened near Griffith Park, along the 405 Freeway, or around Hollywood & Vine, legal help is available in the city. Choosing the right personal injury law expert ensures your legal team has your back while you focus on recovery.
FAQs on California Passenger Injury Claims
Yes. You can file against your friend’s insurance provider if they were at fault—your relationship does not affect your right to compensation.
You may be able to file claims against both insurance companies, depending on the findings in the police accident report.
Possibly. Filing a claim can raise their premiums, but that should not stop you from seeking what you’re entitled to.
You may file under your own UM/UIM policy if applicable. A personal injury lawyer can help you review your coverage and guide you through the claim process.
Even minor injuries can develop into severe conditions requiring ongoing medical care. Consulting an injury attorney helps ensure proper support and treatment from healthcare professionals.
Get the Support You Deserve After a Passenger Injury
Passenger injury claims in Los Angeles can be complex—but you don’t have to go through it alone. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, dealing with insurance companies, or unsure about the next steps, working with the best car accident attorney in Los Angeles can help you protect your rights and secure the medical care and compensation you deserve.
Get the legal support you need today. Contact us for a free consultation and let our dedicated legal team fight for your recovery.
