Being injured in a car accident is stressful, but being injured as a passenger can feel even more overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of your rights or worried about your immigration status. At Ybarra Maldonado Law Group, we want every member of our community to know that passengers have strong legal protections, regardless of who was driving or who caused the crash.
This guide explains your rights as an injured passenger in Arizona, how compensation works, and what to do to protect your claim.
Do Passengers Have Rights After a Car Accident in Arizona?
Yes, passengers have the same, if not greater, protections than drivers. You did not cause the car accident, and under Arizona law, you have the right to pursue compensation from the party (or parties) responsible for your injuries.
This applies whether the at-fault party is:
- The driver of the other vehicle
- The driver of the vehicle you were riding in
- Both drivers (shared fault)
Passengers can file a claim against one or multiple insurance companies, depending on the circumstances.
These protections apply to everyone, including undocumented immigrants. Your right to compensation does not depend on immigration status.
Common Passenger Injuries After an Arizona Car Accident
Passengers often suffer injuries such as:
- Neck and back injuries (whiplash, herniated discs)
- Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft-tissue injuries
- Emotional trauma or anxiety
Even minor car accidents can result in long-term medical needs, which is why reporting injuries early is crucial.
Who Pays for a Passenger Injury Claim?
Arizona is a fault-based state, which means the person who caused the car accident is responsible for damages.
As an injured passenger, you may be able to pursue compensation from:
1. The at-fault driver of another car
If another driver caused the crash, their insurance pays.
2. The driver of the vehicle you were in
Even if it feels uncomfortable, passengers can file against the driver they were riding with, this is why drivers have insurance.
3. Multiple insurance companies
In multi-vehicle crashes, passengers often file claims with several insurers.
4. Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM)
If the responsible driver has no insurance or not enough coverage, your own policy can help — even as a passenger.
Can Undocumented Passengers File a Claim?
Yes. Your immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation under Arizona personal injury laws. Insurance companies cannot deny your claim based on status, nor can they report you to immigration authorities as part of the claim’s process.
At Ybarra Maldonado Law Group, we proudly protect Hispanic passenger rights and ensure every client feels safe coming forward.
What Compensation Can a Passenger Receive?
Depending on the case, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability or scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Even if you didn’t miss work, you can still file a claim.
What to Do If You Are Injured as a Passenger in Arizona
1. Seek medical attention immediately
Even if injuries seem minor.
2. Gather evidence
Take photos, get contact info, and document injuries.
3. Do NOT negotiate with insurance alone
Adjusters often try to minimize passenger claims.
4. Contact an attorney as soon as possible
A lawyer can identify all possible insurance sources and maximize compensation.
How Ybarra Maldonado Law Group Helps Injured Passengers
Our personal injury team fights aggressively to protect car accident victims, especially Latino and immigrant communities who often face unique challenges. We help by:
- Investigating your car accident
- Communicating with insurance companies
- Calculating full compensation value
- Ensuring your immigration status is never used against you
- Taking the case to court if necessary
We are here to protect your rights and your future.
Contact Ybarra Maldonado Law Group
If you were injured as a passenger in Arizona, don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly and insurance companies move fast; you need a strong advocate on your side.
Our compassionate and experienced attorneys have extensive experience assisting and guiding clients every step of the way.
📞Call (602) 910-4040 or contact us 💻 online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced immigration attorney today.