By David Peel
We’re all familiar with making claims when we are hurt by the actions of another car. Under uninsured motorist we can even do that if that other car is unidentified or uninsured in most circumstances.
However what happens if you are a passenger in a car that causes a crash.
Commonly, one car crashes happen while driving too fast in the country and fishtailing out of control. Or running off in a ditch. Or dodging a deer.
Then there are two or more car crashes which involve hitting another vehicle.
In any of these cases, the passengers have a potential claim against the driver of the car that they were in. It may not have occurred to you but the liability works exactly the same way.
And then, if the driver/owner of the car does not have sufficient insurance, again your uninsured motorist comes in to play even when you’re riding with someone else.
Now you can see why I’m always preaching to raise your uninsured motorist limits. It’s especially troubling that most folks don’t know what they are at all, let alone how they are used.
Remember that in Tennessee we have a one-year statute of limitations (for adults) from the date of the crash. Mississippi Arkansas and other neighboring states give you longer time so the right thing to do if you have a potential claim, or especially if your child has a potential claim, is to talk to an experienced lawyer. It does not have to be me, but talk to someone knowledgeable. (Bonus points if he or she is actually compassionate.)
Peel seeks justice for those injured in truck, motorcycle and car crashes. He often addresses churches, clubs and groups without charge. Peel may be reached through PeelLawFirm.com wherein other articles may be accessed.
