Which Driver’s Insurance Could Apply?
The answer depends on how the collision happened. A passenger’s injuries could result from the conduct of:
- The person driving the occupied vehicle
- Another motorist
- Two or more drivers
- An employee driving for a business
- Another party whose actions contributed to the wreck
A passenger injured in a rear-end collision had no control over the distance, speed, or braking decisions made by either driver. A multi-vehicle pileup can involve several competing accounts and more than one insurance policy.
What if the Driver Was a Friend or Relative?
It is understandable to feel uncomfortable pursuing a claim when someone you know was behind the wheel. In most cases, the claim is directed to the applicable auto insurer rather than handled as a personal demand for payment from the driver.
The insurance company can still question who caused the wreck, whether the treatment was necessary, or which injuries resulted from the accident. When multiple motorists share responsibility, sorting out the coverage can take additional time.
What if One of the Drivers Was Uninsured?
Uninsured motorist coverage could become relevant when the responsible driver has no liability insurance. Coverage might come from the policy on the occupied vehicle or another policy that covers the passenger. The wording of each policy must be reviewed before drawing conclusions. Missouri generally requires uninsured motorist protection for bodily injury in auto liability policies.
Protecting Your Passenger Injury Claim
Get medical care and keep copies of bills, treatment records, wage documents, and insurance correspondence. Photograph the scene when possible and save the contact information for anyone who witnessed the crash.
Use caution before giving a recorded statement. Find out which carrier is requesting it and what part of the accident it is investigating.
Find Out Which Insurance Policies Could Apply
When several drivers or carriers are involved, identifying the proper claim can be frustrating. Brown & Brown Attorneys at Law represents injured passengers throughout the St. Louis, MO, area. Contact us or call 314-333-3333 for a free case review focused on the facts of your collision.
