If you are a passenger in a vehicle that is involved in a road traffic accident and you experience injuries as a result then you may be in a position to make a personal injury claim.

James Weller of local law firm Thatcher + Hallam has some words of advice to share in case this is a position you find yourself in.

You may be entitled to compensation

The driver of a vehicle you are a passenger in owes you a duty of care, for example by travelling at safe speeds, not driving whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs and by paying attention to their surroundings. Drivers of other vehicles on the road are under the same obligation.

If the driver of your vehicle or another vehicle causes an accident whilst you are a passenger it is highly likely that you will be able to claim compensation for injuries caused.

A claim could be made against one or more people involved in the accident

As a passenger of a vehicle involved in an accident you may be able to make a claim against:

The driver of the vehicle you are travelling in.

The driver of another vehicle.

Both drivers involved in the accident.

The council or owner of the land where the accident took place if, for example, the accident was caused by an obstruction or defect on the road, poor lighting or excessive mud from farmland. What if I know the driver of the vehicle well and don't want to get them in trouble? People making personal injury claims are often concerned about the impact on the person or organisation they are making a claim against, and this is particularly common when it comes to passenger vehicle accidents. The driver of the vehicle you were a passenger in, and other drivers on the road, are required by law to hold valid motor insurance. Any claim against the driver, and any subsequent compensation, will likely be covered by their insurance company. The motor Insurer essentially 'steps in' on behalf of the driver or organisation and acts on their behalf. Compensation is also paid out by the insurer. Why should you make a personal injury claim? As a passenger in a vehicle accident, there are several reasons why you may wish to make a personal injury claim, including: You have injuries that are extensive and / or require ongoing treatment.

You are suffering financial hardship as a result of your injuries, for example because you are unable to work.

You need ongoing rehabilitation as a result of the injuries you have suffered. Making a claim can assist you in getting back on your feet physically and financially by providing interim payments for financial losses and access to private rehabilitation so that you can get better faster and without a heavy reliance on NHS services. Seek legal advice Seeking legal advice from an experienced solicitor is strongly advised for these types of claims as they are often complex. The personal injury team at Thatcher + Hallam has a wealth of experience in successfully managing and settling passenger vehicle claims. If you would like to discuss a potential claim with a member of the Personal Injury team you can call Thatcher + Hallam on 01761 414646 or visit th-law.co.uk and use the online contact form. Our initial legal advice is free and personal injury claims are run on a on a 'no win no fee' basis as standard.