Aug 01, 2025 | CHASENBOSCOLO
Unlike drivers, passengers in a car crash generally do not carry liability for the accident. However, they may still suffer injuries and face challenges during the injury claims process. You have the right to seek compensation as a passenger if you’re hurt in an accident in Virginia. Learning how auto insurance coverage for passengers works can help you pursue a claim more effectively—especially if you’re dealing with a passenger injury car accident claim and need to understand your rights.
Can a Passenger File a Car Accident Injury Claim?
An injured passenger in a car crash can file a passenger injury car accident claim against the insurer of the person who caused the crash. You might be entitled to file a claim with:
- Driver’s Insurance – If your driver is at fault, you can file a claim against their insurance provider to cover your injuries.
- At-Fault Third Party’s Insurance – You can pursue a claim against the other driver if they caused the accident. You may have multiple insurance claim options if you’re involved in a pile-up accident because multiple parties could contribute to the crash. Multiple claims will also occur when more than one passenger is injured.
Who Is Responsible for Paying for Passenger Injuries?
Determining fault in a passenger injury claim establishes who covers passenger injuries. There are several possible avenues to pursue compensation, including:
- Driver of the Vehicle You Were In – If your driver is responsible for the accident, you can file a passenger injury car accident claim through their insurance.
- At-Fault Driver of Another Car – If another driver is responsible for the accident, you can file a third-party insurance claim against their policy for compensation.
- Rideshare Accidents – If you’re injured while using Uber or Lyft, consider filing a rideshare passenger accident claim through their commercial insurance. These companies usually carry policies that cover up to $1 million in liability for bodily injury.
- Uninsured or Underinsured Drivers – If the at-fault driver has no insurance, you may need to file an uninsured driver passenger claim through your policy.
What Compensation Can an Injured Passenger Claim?
A fair settlement for an injured passenger should cover all your accident-related losses. You can seek car accident injury compensation for:
- Medical Expenses – All your injury-related medical costs should be covered if you’re a car crash passenger with medical bills. This includes surgery, hospital bills, prescription medication, rehabilitation, and therapy.
- Lost Wages – Your claim should include money to cover income lost during your recovery period after your accident. You may be able to include vacation days, sick days, or benefits used in your claim.
- Loss of Future Earning Capacity – You can seek compensation to cover diminished future earnings if your injuries reduce your ability to earn income long-term.
- Pain and Suffering – Pain and suffering after a car accident are actual losses. Your claim should include money to compensate for your physical discomfort, pain, and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life – You can seek compensation if your injuries prevent you from enjoying hobbies and activities or engaging in daily routines.
- Wrongful Death – Surviving family members could file a claim for funeral costs and financial support if a passenger dies from their injuries.
Steps After Being Injured in a Car Accident as a Passenger
You’ll want to take the following steps to help with your passenger insurance claim process:
- Seek Medical Care – Receive prompt medical attention after an accident, even if you feel fine. Documenting injuries and creating a paper trail for a future claim is critical.
- Report the Accident – Call law enforcement if they’re not already at the scene to report the accident. Reporting the accident to the authorities is essential because you’ll need a copy of the police report for your insurance claim.
- Collect Insurance Information – Gather the names, vehicle details, insurance information, and phone numbers of all drivers involved. You’ll need this information to begin the claims process.
- Gather Witness Details – Collect contact information from anyone who saw the accident, as their statements could support your case.
- Call a Personal Injury Attorney – Contact a passenger accident injury lawyer to review your claim, determine your options, and pursue all possible avenues for compensation.
Insurance Coverage Limits and Passenger Coverage
Most insurance policies have insurance limits for passenger injuries, which may affect how much you recover. In Virginia, owners of registered vehicles are required to carry insurance policies that provide $50,000 of bodily injury liability coverage per person, up to $100,000 per accident. If your losses exceed the at-fault driver’s policy limits, you could seek compensation from:
- Other Responsible Parties – You may be able to file claims against other at-fault parties to increase your compensation. Exploring this option is well-suited for accidents involving multiple vehicles or those caused by malfunctioning vehicle parts.
- Your Uninsured Driver Policy – If you have auto insurance, you could use your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy if the at-fault driver lacks insurance or has insufficient coverage. Underinsured motorist coverage is required in Virginia.
Filing a Claim Against the Driver’s Insurance
Filing against a driver’s insurance for a passenger injury is standard practice in Virginia. You have the right to pursue compensation, which can be difficult when the at-fault party is a relative or friend. In these circumstances, it’s critical to remember:
- Insurance Coverage Is for Injuries – Insurance policies specifically exist to cover injuries and related losses, no matter who is involved. This means you don’t have to worry about personal relationships while seeking the necessary help and compensation. The money to cover your injuries shouldn’t come directly from their pocket.
- You’re Dealing With the Insurer – You’re filing a claim with the insurance company, not the driver personally. All communications and negotiations will be between you, your attorney, and the insurer, not the policyholder. This helps keep emotions out of the process while your claim is ongoing.
Contact a Passenger Rights Attorney in Virginia Today
Don’t wait to protect your rights if you’re injured as a passenger in a Virginia car accident. Reach out to one of the trusted Virginia personal injury attorneys at CHASENBOSCOLO. Our team is here to help you understand your rights and take the first step toward securing the necessary benefits. We’ll fight for your best interests and handle the insurance companies for you. Move forward with your claim with confidence.
Contact us online or call our office at (301) 220-0050 for your free consultation today.
