Can You Sue the Driver If You Were a Passenger in a Florida Car Accident?

Being involved in a car accident is distressing, especially when you were simply along for the ride. If you were injured as a passenger in a crash in Florida, you may be wondering whether you have legal options. Can you sue the driver, even if they’re a friend or family member? The short answer is yes, under certain circumstances. Florida law allows injured passengers to pursue compensation when another person’s negligence caused them harm, even if that person was the driver of the vehicle they were in. If you were injured as a passenger in a Florida car accident, call us today to schedule a free consultation with a Florida personal injury lawyer. 

Your Rights as an Injured Passenger in Florida

Passengers have the same legal rights as drivers when it comes to seeking compensation after a car accident. If you suffered injuries while traveling on busy roads like Dale Mabry Highway, Kennedy Boulevard, or I-275, you may be eligible to file a passenger injury lawsuit in Florida. This includes situations where the driver of your vehicle caused the accident due to speeding, distracted driving, impaired driving, or reckless behavior.

Florida follows a no-fault insurance system, which means your initial medical expenses and lost wages are typically covered by the driver’s Personal Injury Protection insurance. However, if your injuries are severe, such as broken bones, head trauma, or permanent disability, you may be able to step outside of the no-fault system and file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

When Can a Passenger Sue the Driver?

You may be able to sue the driver in situations like these:

• The driver was negligent: For example, they were texting while driving on Gandy Boulevard or running a red light on Fowler Avenue.
• You suffered serious injuries: Florida law defines serious injuries as those that result in permanent disability, disfigurement, or significant medical costs.
• The driver’s insurance is insufficient: If the damages exceed PIP limits or the driver was uninsured, you may need to pursue additional legal action.

Whether the driver was a stranger, a rideshare driver, or someone you know, liability is based on their behavior behind the wheel, not your relationship with them.

Suing a Friend After a Crash in Florida

One of the most emotionally difficult aspects of a passenger injury lawsuit in Florida is suing a friend after a crash in Florida. Many passengers hesitate to take legal action because they don’t want to harm their personal relationship or cause financial hardship to someone they care about.

However, it’s important to remember:

• You are suing the insurance company, not your friend personally. Their auto insurance is responsible for paying damages in most cases.
• Medical bills and lost wages add up quickly, and you may not have other means of recovering what you’ve lost.

If your injuries are serious and you need long-term care or rehabilitation, such as after an accident on the Courtney Campbell Causeway or near Bayshore Boulevard, it’s reasonable and legally valid to pursue compensation through a claim.

Important Steps to Take as an Injured Passenger

If you were hurt in a Florida car accident as a passenger, take these steps to protect your legal rights:

• Get medical care immediately: Always prioritize your health and obtain documentation of all injuries.
• Collect information: Get the driver’s insurance details, contact information, and any police reports.
• Speak to a Florida car accident lawyer: An experienced attorney can evaluate your case and explain your options clearly.

Call a Florida Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you’ve been injured as a passenger in a vehicle accident and are considering a passenger injury lawsuit in Florida, you don’t have to handle it alone. Whether the accident happened on I-75, near Raymond James Stadium, or on a quiet neighborhood street in Tampa, a skilled Florida car accident lawyer can guide you through the process, even if you’re suing a friend after a crash in Florida. Call Fulgencio Law at (813) 463-0123 for a free consultation and start protecting your rights today.