Car accidents are always unexpected and traumatic—but when you’re the passenger, they can be especially confusing. You weren’t behind the wheel. You weren’t responsible for what happened. Yet you’re the one suffering with injuries, medical bills, and lost wages. That’s where a passenger injury lawyer steps in: to protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and ensure you’re compensated for your injuries.
At The Law Offices of Darren T. Moore, we represent injured passengers throughout New York City and fight for more than just a settlement—we fight for Moorejustice.
Why You Need a Passenger Injury Lawyer
Being a passenger in a vehicle does not shield you from harm, and unfortunately, passengers often endure serious injuries in crashes they had no control over. A passenger injury lawyer specializes in helping individuals who were injured while riding in a car, Uber, taxi, bus, or other form of transportation. Whether the driver of your vehicle or another party was at fault, you have the legal right to pursue compensation.
Because multiple drivers or insurance policies may be involved, passenger claims can become complicated very quickly. A passenger injury lawyer understands how to navigate these situations and determine which party—or parties—should be held responsible for your injuries.
Common Causes of Passenger Injuries
A passenger injury lawyer sees a wide range of accident scenarios, many of which could have been avoided with proper care and attention. Some of the most common causes of passenger injuries include:\
- Rear-end collisions
- T-bone crashes at intersections
- Head-on collisions
- Distracted driving
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Mechanical failure due to poor maintenance
- Unsafe lane changes or merging errors
Passengers can be injured whether they’re in the front seat, back seat, or third row. In ride-sharing vehicles or public transportation, passengers often lack seat belts or other safety features, increasing the risk of harm.
Types of Injuries Passengers Commonly Suffer
Passengers are frequently unaware of an oncoming collision and unable to brace for impact. A passenger injury lawyer often represents clients who have suffered a wide range of physical injuries, such as:
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding or organ damage
- Facial fractures or dental trauma
- Psychological trauma such as anxiety or PTSD
These injuries may require surgeries, physical therapy, long-term medication, or even permanent lifestyle adjustments. A passenger injury lawyer works to ensure all medical and emotional effects are factored into your claim.
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(917) 809-7014We are 100% committed and dedicated to maximizing your recovery and obtaining the justice and compensation that you deserve.
Who Pays for a Passenger’s Injuries?
Determining financial responsibility is one of the key roles of a passenger injury lawyer. In many cases, the driver of the vehicle you were in may be partially or fully responsible. In others, the at-fault party could be the driver of another vehicle, or both drivers could share fault.
New York is a no-fault insurance state, meaning your initial medical bills and lost wages should be covered by the no-fault insurance policy of the vehicle you were in. However, for more serious injuries, you may be entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit outside of the no-fault system. A passenger injury lawyer will help you determine if your injuries meet the legal threshold to pursue additional compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance.
What If the Accident Involved a Ride-Share, Taxi, or Bus?
If your passenger injury occurred while using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, or in a taxi or MTA bus, the legal process becomes even more complex. A passenger injury lawyer understands the unique insurance layers involved in these cases. For example:
- Uber and Lyft drivers are covered under corporate insurance when transporting passengers.
- Taxis have commercial policies that may cover passenger injuries.
- Buses operated by the MTA may require a Notice of Claim and different legal procedures.
In each scenario, your passenger injury lawyer will identify the correct insurance provider, file the appropriate paperwork, and ensure all deadlines are met.
What to Do After a Passenger Injury
The steps you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. A passenger injury lawyer recommends taking the following actions:
Seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries feel minor, get checked by a doctor. Medical records will support your claim.
Document the accident. Take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and your injuries. If possible, get the names and contact information of all drivers and witnesses.
Request a copy of the police report. This document will outline who was involved and may indicate preliminary fault.
Do not speak with insurance companies without legal advice. Their goal is to settle quickly and cheaply.
Contact a passenger injury lawyer. The sooner you have legal representation, the more effectively your case can be prepared and protected.
Compensation a Passenger Injury Lawyer Can Help You Recover
Your passenger injury lawyer will fight for the maximum compensation available based on the severity of your injuries and the long-term impact they will have on your life. This may include:
- Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, rehab, medication)
- Future medical needs
- Lost wages and loss of future income
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish and emotional trauma
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
If the accident resulted in a fatality, your passenger injury lawyer may help surviving family members file a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses and loss of companionship.
Legal Deadlines to Keep in Mind
In New York, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. However, if your passenger injury involves a municipal vehicle or public transportation, you may have as little as 90 days to file a Notice of Claim.
A passenger injury lawyer ensures your case is filed on time, giving you the best chance of a successful outcome.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Darren T. Moore?
We understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a serious crash can be—especially when you’re the passenger and weren’t in control ofthe situation. That’s why our team treats every client with compassion, urgency, and dedication. We work tirelessly to ensure every voice is heard, every loss is counted, and every opportunity for recovery is explored.
Our mission is to deliver more than just results—we deliver Moorejustice.
Talk to a Passenger Injury Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured while riding as a passenger in a car, Uber, taxi, bus, or any other vehicle, don’t face the legal process alone. Speak with a passenger injury lawyer at The Law Offices of Darren T. Moore today. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and start working immediately to secure the compensation—and the Moorejustice—you deserve.
