Many young and inexperienced drivers will use California roads this summer. Multiple lives are lost in car accidents involving teen drivers every year, and in many cases, it is the passengers who are killed or severely injured. When this happens, the driver might be held responsible in a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
Although the control of the vehicle is in the hands of the driver, passengers can take precautions that might keep them safe. They could refuse to get into a car with an unlicensed driver, or one who is impaired by drugs or alcohol. Passengers must always wear their seat belts, and avoid sharing one with another passenger. They should refrain from distracting the driver, and make sure he or she does not use a cell phone while driving.
When there are also children in the car, they should never sit in the front seat. Children should be calm and not play around or otherwise distract the driver. Everyone must be strapped in, and young children must be secured in car seats and boosters as appropriate.
Despite all these precautions, injuries could still be suffered if drivers are negligent. In such an event, a California personal injury attorney can assess the circumstances to determine whether a passenger has grounds to file a lawsuit in a civil court. The lawyer can provide the necessary guidance throughout any ensuing legal proceedings. A successful presentation of the claim might lead to a monetary judgment to cover damages. Documented claims can include financial losses like medical expenses along with noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering.
Source: consumersafety.org, “Car Safety”, Accessed on May 25, 2018