Passenger Rights in a Motor Vehicle Accident

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A friend comes to pick you up for an afternoon of shopping. Or with a group of friends meeting for dinner instead of taking separate cars you all decide to ride together. Both these scenarios happen thousands of times each day here in South Carolina without any dire consequences. So it probably never crosses your mind about what would happen if as a passenger you are involved in a car accident and the driver, your friend, is the one who caused the collision.

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If the crash caused you physical injury you should expect to have your medical bills paid. Depending on the severity of the accident and the extent of your injuries you could also be entitled to compensation for pain, suffering and emotional distress. Perhaps your injuries were so severe you have been unable to work. Or maybe you were able to return to work but have to take unpaid time off for doctor’s appointments, physical therapy or to testify in court concerning circumstances surrounding the car accident attorney. Then while you certainly don’t want to think about something so life altering, anytime there is a motor vehicle accident with injury, there is a chance of permanent disability. If that happens how are you going to pay your bills and support your family?

 

Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm understands how delicate of a situation this can be. While the accident was not intentional, the person who caused your current pain and suffering is a friend and possibly is also dealing with their own physical injuries. But you have to be realistic and put your own needs, and the needs of your family, first.

 

In the majority of cases the driver will have the proper liability insurance required by the State of South Carolina. Currently any driver with an automobile registered in their name is mandated to have at least $25,000 in bodily injury per person, $50,000 in bodily injury per accident and $25,000 for property damage per accident. These are legal minimums and often vehicle owners will have increased coverage based on their insurance agent’s recommendations. While these amounts might seem sufficient, as we all know medical costs these days are astronomical and depending on a person’s injuries, $25,000 could quickly be maxed out.

 

If the driver’s insurance limits have been met and you still need and deserve financial assistance, then it is time to call 864-232-4273 and speak with one of our caring staff. As an experienced personal injury attorney, Dan Pruitt will be on your side. He and his associates know exactly what is required to ensure you are adequately and honestly compensated for any injuries and/or losses you have suffered.

 

The emotional trauma of contemplating involving a friend in legal action can become overwhelming. That is why Dan Pruitt will first ensure the insurance company has met all their legal responsibilities before moving onto the next step. Depending on a wide range of factors, there could be other sources of compensation available without having to involve the court system. Only after a thorough investigation to ensure all other avenues have been exhausted, will you then be advised on the feasibility of a civil suit.

 

In this type of accident, you need someone who knows the law and can also understand the sensitivity of the situation. Please contact the Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm at 864-232-4273 to schedule a complementary consultation.

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