Most people are aware that if they are in a car accident with another vehicle that’s at-fault, they can file a claim against the other driver for expenses related to serious injuries. But what about single-car accidents that result in passengers being hurt? Can those passengers file a claim against the driver of the vehicle?
A Real-Life Scenario
These questions were brought to light last month, when a pickup truck was speeding down Cheyenne Street in Las Vegas, going east. While speeding, the truck crossed into the oncoming lane and eventually went off the road.
There were four passengers in the truck; one a 17-year-old girl who died later from her injuries, and two other girls who survived but were also taken to the hospital with serious injuries. The driver and other passenger, both male, left the scene of the accident on foot before police arrived.
Drivers Have a Duty to Passengers
Because speeding is an act of negligence, the driver of the truck could absolutely be held responsible for the injuries all passengers received. The two girls who survived can file a claim for medical expenses and other related costs. The parents or guardians of the deceased teenager can file a claim for wrongful death. Although filing a wrongful death claim can never heal the tragic and unexpected loss of a loved one, it is important that you know your options.
But the charges could go even further than that. Because there were bodily injuries and one death, the driver of the pickup truck could be charged with a category B felony in Nevada due to the fact that he fled the scene of the accident. It’s unclear whether or not the other male who left the scene can be charged, but it’s not uncommon for people to get charged for leaving a scene, even if they were not at fault. This is because those at the scene of the accident have a duty to render aid and provide information.
If You Are in a Single-Vehicle Collision….
In any vehicular accident, even one that only includes property damage, it’s best to remain at the scene until the police arrive. This is even more important for the person who was driving at the time of the accident. This young man could have avoided criminal charges simply by remaining at the scene.
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run, or you’ve been injured in someone else’s car, contact us. We’ll work hard to get you the justice you deserve, and any compensation you may be entitled to.