If you are hurt as a passenger in a car crash, you may face medical bills, insurance challenges, and legal issues. Taking the right actions early is essential to protect both your health and your ability to pursue compensation. Hillstone Law helps people understand their rights and avoid common mistakes that can undermine a case.

Can a Passenger File a Claim After a Car Accident?

Yes. Under California law, a passenger injured in a crash can seek compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. It does not matter if the driver at fault was someone in your vehicle or another driver entirely. Even if you were not wearing a seatbelt, you may still be able to file a claim and seek damages.

What You Should Do Right After the Accident

Seek medical help immediately, even for injuries that seem mild at first. Prompt medical attention benefits your health and strengthens your legal claim. Document what happened: take photographs of the scene, gather contact information from everyone involved, including witnesses, and obtain the official accident report.

Medical and Legal Follow-Up Actions

See medical professionals within the first day after the crash, even if you believe you feel okay. Preserve all records and receipts for treatments, prescriptions, therapy, and related expenses. Keep a detailed journal of symptoms, doctor’s visits, emotional effects, and how the injury affects your daily life.

What You Should Not Do

Avoid giving a recorded statement to any insurance representative before speaking with an injury attorney. Refrain from discussing details of the crash, your injuries, or your recovery on social media, since what you say may be used against you. Do not accept the first settlement offer without allowing a legal professional to review it, because early offers often do not cover all costs or long-term effects.

Types of Compensation You Might Recover

You may be entitled under California law to both economic and non-economic damages. These could include medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, future treatment or disability costs. In cases where negligence is severe for example, DUI or recklessness—you might also pursue punitive damages.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

California generally requires that personal injury claims be filed within two years from the date of the accident. Special rules may apply in certain situations, such as if a government vehicle is involved. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your claim.

How to Choose the Right Legal Team

Choose attorneys who have experience specifically with passenger injury claims. Look for reviews that mention medical bill recovery, strong communication, and successful outcomes. Make sure they offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis meaning you pay only if they win your case. Prefer lawyers familiar with local courts and roads. Ask whether they have handled serious injury or punitive damages cases.

Hillstone Law Can Help You

Hillstone Law assists clients by evaluating all aspects of their injuries and claims, including long-term medical needs and emotional harm. We gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your legal rights so you can focus on healing. If you were injured as a passenger, contact Hillstone Law for a free case evaluation so you can understand your options and pursue full recovery.