Most drivers you come in contact with in the area are going to be careful and focused. Sometimes, though, this is tougher for certain age groups, particularly teenagers.
Two teens suffered serious injuries after crashing in Deer Park on Sunday, April 21, 2024 according to a story from the Spokane Spokesman-Review. The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) responded to the call of an accident on North Short Road in Deer Park, where they found two teens–the 16-year-old driver and 17-year-old passenger–trapped in the wreckage. Investigators say the driver was speeding and possibly under the influence when they lost control of the car and hit a utility pole. The car flipped and rolled into a nearby fence and parked car. It also threw a large boulder into the garage of a nearby house.
The driver had a restricted driver’s license that required a passenger of at least 20 years of age. Both had to be extracted from the vehicle and were transported to a local hospital with severe, but not life-threatening, injuries. The driver has yet to be charged, but is likely to face them from the SCSO.
Can You File an Injury Claim as a Passenger?
Just because you’re a passenger doesn’t prevent you from being in an accident, especially if the driver of the car you’re in is being negligent. Still, you have the same rights as any other victim in this situation. This means you can file an injury claim.
Of course, when you’re injured as a passenger in a car accident, your health and safety should be your top priority. Even as a passenger, accidents can still be jarring and leave you facing injuries like:
- Head and neck injuries
- Fractures or broken bones from impact with the ground or the car’s interior
- Spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or concussions
- Internal organ damage
- Sprains and strains
- Cuts and bruises
- Emotional and psychological damage
Legally speaking, you’ll have to file your claim against whoever’s responsible for the accident, even the person you’re riding with. This makes the situation a bit more complicated, since you probably know them fairly well. Still, you’ll need to explore all your legal options if you want to make a recovery. And to do that fully, you can work with our team of experienced Deer Park personal injury lawyers.
CCD Law Helps Car Accident Victims in Deer Park
Just like any car accident, various factors influence your claim for damages as a passenger. The severity of your injuries, your recovery prospects, and the impact on your future life all contribute to potential damages. This can include things like:
- Healthcare expenses and related costs
- Lost income or earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Repair/replacement costs for damaged property
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship
- Wrongful death expenses, if the accident is fatal
- Punitive damages, in cases of intentional or reckless negligence
Since 1948, CCD Law has helped injury victims in Deer Park, Spokane County, and the surrounding area. As a passenger injured in a car accident, you have legal options. Contact us today to set up your free consultation to learn more.
