Passenger Car Accident Claims Guide – Do You Have A Valid Claim?

If you’ve been injured as a passenger in a car accident, you may have the right to claim compensation. Understanding your passenger rights after a car accident is essential, and the passenger accident claim process can be easier with expert help. This guide explains car accident passenger claims, including No Win No Fee passenger claims, who you can claim against, and passenger accident claim time limits. Fentons could be able to help you claim—contact us today for expert advice.

Key Facts

• Passengers have the right to claim for injuries – If you were a passenger in a car crash, you can claim against the at-fault party, whether it’s the driver of the car you were in or another vehicle.
• No Win No Fee passenger claims are available – Many passenger injury claims are handled under a No Win No Fee agreement, meaning you won’t pay unless your claim is successful.
• Passenger accident claim time limits apply – You typically have three years from the accident date to make a passenger injury claim, though exceptions may apply for minors and those lacking mental capacity.
• You can claim different types of damages – A car crash passenger claim can include damages for medical costs, loss of earnings, rehabilitation expenses, and emotional distress.
• Fentons could be able to help you claim – Our team specialises in passenger accident compensation claims and can guide you through the process. Contact us today for more advice.

Understanding Passenger Car Accident Claims

 

When you are a passenger in a car crash, you are not responsible for the accident, which means you have a right to claim against the at-fault party. Whether the accident was caused by the driver of the vehicle you were in or another road user, you may be entitled to passenger accident compensation. The passenger accident claim process involves proving liability, gathering medical evidence, and ensuring that all legal time limits are met.

It is essential to know that claiming does not just cover physical injuries but can also compensate for lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and emotional distress. Many people worry about claiming if the driver at fault is a friend or family member, but their insurance covers these claims, not them personally.

Making a passenger injury claim is often straightforward, especially when handled by a claims management firm. Fentons could be able to help you claim by guiding you through each step and ensuring you receive the compensation you when making road traffic accident claims.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in the UK

Car accidents in the UK can occur for many reasons, and as a passenger in a car accident, you need to understand what could have caused your crash. Common factors include driver negligence, poor road conditions, and vehicle defects. If another party was responsible, you have the right to claim under passenger rights after a car accident. Some of the most frequent causes include:

• Speeding – Excessive speed reduces reaction times and increases the severity of crashes.
• Distracted driving – Mobile phone use, eating, or adjusting controls while driving can lead to accidents.
• Drink and drug driving – Impaired drivers have reduced control and slower reactions.
• Reckless driving – Tailgating, aggressive overtaking, and road rage incidents cause many collisions.
• Weather conditions – Rain, ice, and fog can make roads hazardous, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Failure to follow traffic laws – Running red lights, failing to give way, or ignoring road signs can result in serious crashes.

If your accident was caused by any of these factors, you could be entitled to compensation for passenger injuries. Contact Fentons for more advice on whether you can claim.

What Are the Common Types of Injuries Passengers Claim For?

When making a car crash passenger claim, passengers often suffer various types of injuries, from minor to severe. Regardless of the severity, you may be entitled to passenger injury compensation for your pain, suffering, and financial losses. Some of the most common injuries claimed for include:

• Whiplash – A sudden jolt to the neck can cause severe pain and stiffness.
• Head injuries – Concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and cuts can occur from impact with the dashboard or windows.
• Broken bones – Arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are particularly vulnerable in crashes.
• Spinal injuries – Damage to the back or neck can lead to long-term mobility issues.
• Psychological trauma – PTSD, anxiety, and emotional distress can be just as damaging as physical injuries.

Regardless of the type of injury, you have the right to make whiplash compensation claims. Fentons could be able to help you claim and get the compensation you deserve.

Can a Passenger Claim Compensation After a Car Accident?

As a passenger in a car accident, you have the right to claim against whoever was responsible for the crash. The answer to “passenger in car accident who do I sue?” depends on the circumstances of the accident. If the driver of the car you were in was at fault, you can claim against their insurance. If another driver was responsible, you would claim against their insurer.

When an accident involves an uninsured driver or a hit-and-run, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) may handle your claim. The passenger accident claim process involves gathering evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and police reports, to prove liability and the extent of your injuries. Fentons could be able to help you claim under a No Win No Fee agreement, ensuring you do not have to pay legal fees upfront. Contact us today to start your claim.

Can a Passenger Claim for Whiplash Injuries?

If you have suffered whiplash as a passenger in a car crash, you may be entitled to passenger accident compensation. Whiplash is a common injury caused by the sudden movement of the head during a collision, leading to neck pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. As a passenger, you are not responsible for the accident, meaning you can claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. The passenger accident claim process for whiplash follows the same steps as other passenger injury claims, requiring medical evidence and proof of liability.

The Whiplash Reform Programme, introduced in 2021 under the Civil Liability Act 2018, affects how whiplash claims are handled, particularly for minor injuries. However, this mainly applies to drivers, and passengers may still be able to claim under different rules. You may also be entitled to claim for related costs such as physiotherapy, medical expenses, and loss of earnings. If you are unsure about your rights, contact Fentons for more advice.

Can a Passenger Claim if the Accident Was a Hit and Run?

If you were a passenger in a car accident where the at-fault driver fled the scene, you may still be able to claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). The MIB exists to compensate victims of uninsured or untraceable drivers, meaning you do not need to know the identity of the driver who caused the accident.

To make a passenger accident claim, you will need to report the incident to the police as soon as possible and provide as much evidence as you can, including witness statements, dashcam footage, and medical reports. Fentons could be able to help you make hit and run accident claims and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Much Compensation Can a Passenger Get in a Car Accident?

The amount of passenger injury compensation depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, its impact on daily life, and any financial losses incurred. The car crash passenger claim process considers medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and emotional distress when calculating a settlement. Some of the damages that may be claimed include:

• General damages – Compensation for the pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life caused by the injury.
• Special damages – Reimbursement for financial losses, such as medical bills, travel costs, and loss of earnings.
• Future losses – If the injury affects long-term health or ability to work, compensation may include ongoing medical treatment and future income loss.

While the exact amount varies based on individual circumstances, Fentons could be able to help you claim the maximum amount possible under the law. Contact us today to discuss your claim. Below are some examples of compensation payouts:

Death (full awareness) (£15,300 to £29,060) – Severe burns and lung damage, with brief full awareness. Consciousness fluctuates for weeks before death within three months.

Head injury (moderately severe) (£267,340 to £344,150) – Severe disabilities needing constant care, including paralysis or major mental changes. Compensation depends on awareness, life expectancy, and risks like epilepsy.

Psychiatric damage (moderate) (£7,150 to £23,270) – Significant mental health issues with a good recovery chance. Includes trauma from childbirth or long-term work stress.

Chest injury (e) (£6,500 to £15,370) – Toxic fume inhalation causing mild lung damage but no lasting breathing issues.

Back injury (minor, ii) (£5,310 to £9,630) – Back injuries healing within 1-2 years without surgery, including temporary worsening of old injuries.

Whiplash Compensation Table

Table A Amount	Table B Amount	Injury Duration
£240	£260	Up to 3 months
£495	£520	Between 3 and 6 months
£840	£895	Between 6 and 9 months
£1,320	£1,390	Between 9 and 12 months
£2,040	£2,725	Between 12 and 15 months
£3,005	£3,700	Between 15 and 18 months
£4,215	£4,345	Between 18 and 24 months

How Do I Make a Claim as a Passenger in a Car Accident?

The passenger accident claim process involves several key steps, and using a claims management firm can make the process easier. As a passenger in a car crash, you will need to prove that someone else was at fault, whether it was the driver of your vehicle or another motorist. The steps to making a passenger injury claim include:

1. Seek medical attention – Ensure your injuries are properly diagnosed and documented.
2. Gather evidence – Take photos, collect witness details, and obtain a copy of the police report if available.
3. Report the accident – Inform the authorities and ensure that insurance companies are notified.
4. Contact a claims management firm – A firm like Fentons could be able to help you claim by handling all legal aspects of your case.
5. Submit your claim – Your claim will be processed, and negotiations will take place to secure a fair settlement.

The process can be complex, but with the right support, No Win No Fee passenger claims can be pursued without financial risk. Contact Fentons today to get started.

Are There Time Limits for Passengers to Claim After a Car Accident?

If you were a passenger in a car crash, it is important to act quickly, as strict passenger accident claim time limits apply. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to make a passenger injury claim under the Limitation Act 1980. However, there are exceptions. If the injured passenger was under 18 at the time of the accident, they have until their 21st birthday to make a claim.

If the passenger lacks mental capacity due to their injuries, the time limit may not apply until they recover. For claims involving an uninsured or hit-and-run driver through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), the process may have different time constraints, making early action essential. If you wait too long, your claim may be invalid, so it is best to seek legal help as soon as possible. Fentons could be able to help you claim within the correct time limits and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

What Evidence Is Needed for a Passenger Accident Claim?

Gathering strong evidence is crucial for a successful passenger injury claim. As a passenger in a car accident, you need to prove who was at fault, the extent of your injuries, and how the accident has affected your life. The key types of evidence include:

• Medical records – A doctor’s report confirming your injuries and any treatment received.
• Accident reports – Police reports or insurance documents detailing the circumstances of the crash.
• Photographic evidence – Pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
• Witness statements – Contact details of people who saw the accident and can confirm what happened.
• Financial records – Proof of lost earnings, medical expenses, and any other costs related to your injury.

The passenger accident claim process relies on having clear, well-documented evidence to support your case. The sooner you gather this information, the stronger your claim will be. Fentons could be able to help you claim by ensuring you have the right evidence to support your case.

How to Make No Win No Fee Claims as a Passenger

Making a No Win No Fee passenger claim is a risk-free way to seek passenger accident compensation without worrying about upfront costs. This type of claim means you only pay legal fees if your case is successful, making it an accessible option for many injured passengers. The passenger accident claim process under a No Win No Fee agreement follows these steps:

1. Contact a claims management firm – Experts like Fentons could be able to help you claim and explain the process.
2. Provide case details – Share evidence, medical records, and accident information with your claims handler.
3. Sign a No Win No Fee agreement – This ensures you do not have to pay legal fees if the claim is unsuccessful.
4. Your claim is submitted – The firm negotiates with the responsible party’s insurer to secure compensation.
5. Receive your settlement – If successful, you receive your compensation after legal deductions.

This approach ensures that you can make a claim without financial risk. Contact Fentons today to discuss your No Win No Fee options.

Fentons Can Help You to Make Passenger Car Accident Claims

Fentons could be able to help you claim the maximum passenger accident compensation you deserve. With over 30 years of experience, our claims professionals specialise in car accident passenger claims and provide expert guidance every step of the way. We offer free legal advice from friendly experts to assess your case and explain your options.

Whether you were a passenger in a car crash involving an insured, uninsured, or hit-and-run driver, we can guide you through the passenger accident claim process and ensure you receive fair compensation. Our team works on a No Win No Fee basis, so you won’t have to pay legal fees unless your claim is successful. To find out if you can claim, call 0333 000 0723 or contact us today.

Passenger Car Accident Claims FAQ

Can a Passenger Claim if the Driver Is Uninsured?

Yes, you can still claim if the driver is uninsured. Claims are typically made through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), which compensates victims of uninsured or untraced drivers.

Do Passengers Need a Solicitor to Make a Car Accident Claim?

No, you do not need a solicitor. A claims management firm like Fentons can handle your passenger injury claim, making the process simple and stress-free.

Can a Passenger Claim if They Weren’t Wearing a Seatbelt?

Yes, but not wearing a seatbelt may reduce your compensation under the principle of contributory negligence, as your injuries could have been less severe if restrained.

How Long Does It Take for a Passenger to Receive Compensation?

The time frame varies, but straightforward claims may be resolved within a few months. More complex cases, especially those involving serious injuries, can take longer.

Passenger Car Accident Claims Resources

NHS – Whiplash: A guide to whiplash, an injury caused by sudden jerking of the neck, often in car accidents, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options like physiotherapy or pain relief.

THINK – Government Road Safety Initiative: Learn about the THINK! road safety initiative from the UK government, which provides public education on road safety through campaigns and resources to reduce road accidents and fatalities.

UK Government – Road Accidents and Safety Statistics: Comprehensive statistics related to road accidents and safety measures in the UK.