Car accidents are a common occurrence throughout the Portland area and can end up leaving drivers with serious injuries. In many of these cases, passengers are in the vehicle and often suffer severe damages as well. The following outlines what to do in this type of collision along with steps you can take to protect yourself.
Passengers Involved in Car Accidents
The city of Portland is still reeling after a fatal car accident claimed the lives of two people recently. The crash occurred on May 22, 2019 at North Greeley Avenue, south of Going Street. According to KGW 8 News, a sedan was reportedly driving in the southbound lanes when it crossed the center line and crashed headlong into an SUV headed the opposite direction. Both the driver and a passenger in the sedan were reported as sustaining fatal injuries.
Unfortunately, these types of accidents are not uncommon. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), passengers are 64 percent more likely to suffer serious and potentially life threatening injuries in a crash than are drivers in the vehicle. Reasons for this may include:
- Passengers are often less likely to wear seat belts;
- They may be seated in awkward positions, increasing the likelihood of injuries;
- They may not be paying attention to the road, leaving them less time to brace themselves for a crash.
The majority of car accidents are caused by the reckless actions of drivers. Behaviors such as speeding, disregarding traffic signs and signals, and driving under the influence put everyone on the road at risk. Passengers can help to protect themselves by encouraging drivers to stay focused on the road, warning them of unexpected traffic or other obstacles, and not getting into a car with a driver who is under the influence or known to engage in reckless driving behaviors. If at any time you feel in danger, ask the driver to pull over and get out of the vehicle.
When You Are a Passenger in a Car Accident
When a car accident occurs and a passenger is injured, they are entitled to compensation for their injuries. As an injured passenger, you may be able to get reimbursed for your medical expenses, lost wages, or other costs you incur through an insurance claim or by filing a lawsuit against the at fault driver involved. Steps you can take after an accident that can help protect your rights in a claim include the following:
- Make sure the police are notified immediately, so that an accident report can be filed;
- Get the names and contact information of all those involved;
- Use your cell phone to take photos of the scene and your injuries if possible;
- Get medical care right away, even if you suspect your injuries are minor.
Let Us Help You Today
When car accidents leave you suffering serious injuries, the Johnston Law Firm can guide you in holding at fault drivers accountable. Get the compensation you need to recover. Call us (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland car accident attorneys online and request a consultation today.