Were You Injured as a Passenger in a Car Accident? What to do

A car accident is confusing for all people involved, especially if you are a passenger. Since you were not the driver of any vehicle, you were not at fault for the accident, and you don't need to use your personal car insurance, what steps should you take? 

Unlike a driver of a car involved in an accident, a passenger has no control. However, a passenger can still get serious injuries and face complicated questions about how to cover damages. Knowing what to do following a car accident as a passenger is essential for getting the compensation you deserve. 

Step 1: Check for Safety and Call for Help As a Passenger in a Car Accident

Though you want to determine the at-fault driver as soon as possible, the first step is to check everyone for injuries. If you or anyone else is injured, you should call for an ambulance. Call 911 and get both police and EMTs to the scene. 

If possible, the driver of the vehicle you were in should get their car out of traffic and turn on the hazard lights. Also, it's important to remain calm, especially if you are an injured party. 

Step 2: If You Were Injured as a Passenger, Seek Medical Attention for Personal Injuries

Injuries in a car accident are often masked due to an increase of adrenaline. However, even a minor accident can cause whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible ensures that injuries are diagnosed and documented, which links them to the accident. This is important when making a claim against the driver who is found to be at fault. 

If you don't get medical attention following a motor vehicle accident, even if you are injured, could weaken any personal injury claim you make to get compensation for your injuries. For more information, these accident lawyers in Des Moines may be able to help.

Step 3: Call Law Enforcement If Injured in a Car Accident as a Passenger

Having police on the scene is also important, as you will need a police report if you want to file a personal injury claim. Law enforcement officials will document the scene, collect the details of the crash, interview people who were involved, and sometimes even give an opinion about who is at fault. 

As a passenger, you have the right to request a copy of the police report, which you can use to file a personal injury lawsuit. 

Step 4: Gather Evidence at the Scene - Document the Accident To File a Claim as an Injured Passenger

While the drivers handle insurance information and other details, if able, the passenger can start collecting information, too, including evidence for a case. Some of the information you should try to collect includes: 

• Names, contact details, and insurance information for all drivers involved

• Vehicle makes, models, and license plates

• Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries

• Witness names and phone numbers

Do your best to avoid discussing fault with anyone and avoid making statements that might be seen as placing fault. Instead, just focus on the facts at the scene of the accident. 

Step 5: Report the Accident to Insurance Companies and Make an Insurance Claim

A passenger is usually covered under another person's car insurance policy following the accident. This includes: 

• The driver of the car they were riding in (personal injury protection could be art of the driver's insurance policy)

• The at-fault driver’s insurance company

• Their own auto insurance (if they carry certain coverages)

• Their health insurance

Reporting the accident quickly ensures that claims are not denied for late notice. A passenger should not assume the driver will handle everything on their behalf. Instead, a passenger may need to deal with things on their own with the driver's insurance company. 

Step 6: Understand Your Rights as a Passenger in Iowa

Passengers in Iowa generally have the right to pursue compensation when injured in a car accident caused by another’s negligence. Potential claims may cover:

• Medical expenses

• Lost income from time off work

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional distress

• Property damage

• Other expenses related to the accident

However, fault can be complicated. If the driver of the car the passenger was in caused the accident, the passenger may still be able to file a claim against that driver’s insurance. If another driver was responsible, that driver’s insurer would be pursued instead. As with most accidents, if you're a passenger, it comes down to fault in the accident and who is responsible for the accident. 

Step 7: Avoid Common Mistakes When Injured in an Accident as a Passenger

Passengers who are accident victims sometimes make errors that hurt their claims, such as:

• Assuming they cannot make a claim because they were a passenger in a vehicle and not driving

• Accepting a quick settlement without understanding the full cost of injuries

• Skipping medical appointments or follow-up care

• Posting about the accident on social media

Each of these mistakes can reduce the chances of receiving fair compensation even when working with a law firm who can advise what to do after a car accident with an uninsured driver.

Step 8: Keep Records of All Expenses For a Personal Injury Lawsuit

Passengers should track all accident-related expenses in detail, including:

• Medical bills and treatment plans

• Prescription receipts

• Transportation costs to and from appointments

• Pay stubs or employer letters documenting lost wages

Keeping these records helps establish the true value of the claim and prevents insurers from undervaluing losses.

Step 9: Consider Legal Representation from a Car Accident Lawyer

Because multiple insurance companies may be involved, claims as a passenger can quickly become complicated. Insurance adjusters often attempt to shift blame or minimize payouts, leaving injured passengers without adequate support.

A personal injury law firm in Des Moines can:

• Review the accident report and medical records

• Identify all available sources of insurance coverage

• Negotiate with insurers on behalf of the passenger

• File a lawsuit if settlement offers are unfair

Working with a personal injury attorney ensures that the passenger’s rights are fully protected and that compensation reflects both immediate and long-term damages. They can also explain what to do after a car accident caused by bad weather.

Step 10: Focus on Recovery When Involved in an Accident

After the paperwork and claims process begins, passengers should prioritize recovery. Following medical advice, attending therapy appointments, and documenting progress not only improve health outcomes but also strengthen the legal claim by showing consistent treatment.

Work with a Car Accident Attorney from Tom Fowler Law and Protect Your Rights with a Personal Injury Case

Passengers have unique rights and responsibilities after a car accident. By seeking medical care, obtaining a police report, gathering evidence, and reporting the accident to the appropriate insurers, they lay the groundwork for fair compensation. Because claims can involve multiple drivers and insurance companies, legal guidance is often valuable.

When you need an experienced car accident lawyer in Des Moines, Tom Fowler Law provides experienced support to navigate the process, negotiate with insurers, and pursue justice. With the right steps and professional guidance, passengers can focus on healing while knowing their legal rights are protected. Call now for a free consultation.