Albany Passengers Beware: If You’re Hurt in a Car Crash, Here’s How to Fight Back! 

Car accidents are terrifying. One minute, you're cruising through Albany. The next? You're dealing with pain, medical bills, and insurance headaches of an Albany personal injury case—all through no fault of your own. 

The Albany personal injury lawyers at Horn Wright, LLP, can help you understand your rights. If you want top-tier legal representation, reach out to our Albany law firm, known for fighting relentlessly for accident victims.  

Are You Letting Albany Insurance Companies Cheat You Out of Compensation? 

If you were injured as a passenger in a crash, you have rights. A lot of people don’t realize that New York’s No-Fault insurance system is supposed to cover their medical bills and lost wages—no matter who caused the accident.  

But here’s the catch: insurance companies will look for every excuse to pay you less than you deserve. To get the compensation you’re entitled to, you need to file a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim with the insurance company that covers the vehicle you were in.  

This covers basic expenses like medical bills and part of your lost wages. But (and this is a big one) PIP doesn’t cover pain and suffering. If your injuries are serious enough, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and sue the at-fault driver directly to receive compensation. 

Don’t let an insurance company convince you otherwise. An experienced Albany car accident lawyer can help you fight for the full compensation you deserve. 

Who’s to Blame? Unmasking the Truth About Passenger Lawsuits in Albany 

You weren’t driving, so you know the crash wasn’t your fault. But who should pay for your injuries? That depends on the accident. 

When a Passenger Can Sue Their Own Driver 

• If the driver of your car was speeding, texting, or drunk, you can file a claim against their insurance. 
• A lot of people hesitate to sue friends or family, but remember: it’s the insurance company that pays, not the driver personally. 
• New York drivers are required to carry liability insurance, which covers your medical bills, lost wages, and more—up to the policy limits. 

Holding Another Driver Accountable for a Passenger’s Injuries 

• If another driver caused the accident, their insurance is on the hook for your injuries. 
• Classic examples? Running a red light, rear-ending your car, or drifting into your lane while distracted. 
• In cases where both drivers share fault, you might be able to file claims against multiple insurance policies to maximize your payout. 

Can a Passenger Be at Fault? 

• It’s rare, but if you distracted the driver—say, by grabbing the wheel or encouraging reckless behavior—you might share some blame. 
• New York’s comparative negligence laws could reduce your compensation if you're found partially at fault. 
• That said, in most cases, the responsibility falls on the drivers, not the passengers. 

Albany Insurance Companies Don’t Play Fair—Here’s How They Try to Undercut Your Claim 

You’ve got medical bills piling up, you’re missing work, and all you want is fair compensation. But insurance companies? They want to pay you as little as possible. Here’s how they do it. 

What to Expect When Filing a Passenger Injury Claim 

• Insurance adjusters will comb through your medical records looking for reasons to deny your claim. 
• They may argue that your injuries aren’t as bad as you say or that they were caused by something unrelated to the crash. 
• The best way to fight back? Document everything—doctor visits, treatments, lost wages. The more evidence you have, the harder it is for them to lowball you. 
• Speaking with an injury claim attorney can help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize your settlement. 

Common Delays in Passenger Insurance Claims 

• Insurance companies are notorious for dragging out claims, hoping you'll get frustrated and settle for less. 
• They might demand excessive paperwork or "lose" important documents. 
• If they’re stalling, don’t wait. A lawyer can push them to act faster and ensure you’re treated fairly. 

Too Many Passengers, Not Enough Compensation: What Happens When Multiple Claims Are Filed in Albany? 

If you were one of several passengers injured in a crash, things get tricky. Most drivers have limited insurance coverage, and those policy limits have to be split between everyone making a claim. 

The Impact of Multiple Claims on Settlement Amounts 

• New York’s minimum liability coverage is just $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. If multiple people were injured, that money disappears fast. 
• You may need to explore other compensation sources, such as:  
• The at-fault driver’s umbrella policy (if they have one). 
• Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. 
• A third-party lawsuit (for example, against a vehicle manufacturer if defective parts played a role in the crash). 
• The bottom line? When multiple passengers are filing claims, getting legal advice can make all the difference in securing the full compensation you deserve. If your injuries are serious and your claim is getting complicated, don’t hesitate to reach out for car crash legal help to ensure you’re not left with unpaid medical bills. 

Whether you’re dealing with an auto accident, a workplace injury, or even considering a claim with a workers' compensation attorney, knowing your rights is key.  

And if you've suffered injuries in another type of accident, such as a slip and fall, reaching out to a slip and fall lawyer can help you explore your legal options.  

Horn Wright, LLP, is Ready to Fight for You 

The Albany personal injury attorneys at Horn Wright, LLP, have the experience to guide you through the claims process and ensure you get the maximum compensation possible.  

Call our office today to get started with your free consultation. Seek justice with one of the best law firms in America by your side.