What If You’re Injured as a Passenger in a Car Accident in Ohio?
By Zaber Law | Cleveland Car Accident Lawyers Serving Northeast Ohio
If you were riding as a passenger in a car that got into an accident in Cleveland or anywhere in Ohio, you might be wondering:
“Who pays for my injuries?”
“Do I need a lawyer?”
“Can I file a claim even if I wasn’t driving?”
The good news is: Yes—you do have rights. And in most cases, you’re covered by one or more insurance policies. At Zaber Law, we’ve helped countless passengers recover compensation after being hurt in crashes across Cleveland, Parma, Elyria, Lakewood, Lorain, and beyond.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
🚗 Passengers Have the Right to Compensation
In Ohio, if you’re injured in a car accident—even if you weren’t driving—you have the legal right to seek compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Future treatment or rehab costs
It doesn’t matter if you were in the front seat or back seat. If you were hurt, you can file a claim.
⚖️ Who Could Be Responsible for Your Injuries?
There are several options for filing a claim, depending on the situation:
✅ 1. The Driver of the Car You Were In
If the person driving the car you were in caused the crash, their auto insurance should cover your injuries—even if they’re a friend or family member.
✅ 2. Another Driver
If another vehicle caused the accident, you can file a claim against that driver’s insurance.
✅ 3. Multiple Drivers
Sometimes both drivers share fault. You may be able to file claims with more than one insurance company.
✅ 4. Your Own Insurance
If the drivers involved don’t have enough coverage—or any at all—you may be able to use your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to pay for medical costs.
🏥 What to Do After the Crash
If you were a passenger in a car accident in Cuyahoga, Lorain, or Medina County, follow these steps:
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel okay.
- Get a copy of the police report from the Cleveland Police or the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
- Write down details—who was driving, how it happened, and any witness info.
- Do not speak to insurance adjusters until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
- Call Zaber Law for a free consultation.
🛑 Be Aware of Ohio’s Time Limits
Ohio law gives you a limited window to file a personal injury claim—usually two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long could cost you your right to recover anything.
📞 Hurt as a Passenger in an Ohio Car Accident? Zaber Law Can Help.
You didn’t cause the accident—but you’re the one dealing with the pain, stress, and bills. Let Zaber Law fight for the compensation you deserve.
We help clients across Cleveland, Parma, Lakewood, Elyria, Lorain, and all of Northeast Ohio recover from car crashes—whether they were the driver or not.
Call Zaber Law now 216-367-5665 to schedule your FREE consultation.
We don’t get paid unless you win.
