You might think passengers have no role in car accidents, but that’s not always true. In some cases, what you do—or don’t do—can affect how injury claims work. California law even recognizes certain responsibilities for passengers involved in crashes.
Passengers must avoid interfering with the driver
If you distract the driver or grab the wheel, you could share responsibility for the accident. California follows the pure comparative fault rule. That means your actions as a passenger can reduce any compensation you seek for injuries. For example, if you argue with the driver and cause them to lose focus, a court might find you partially at fault.
Passengers must wear seatbelts
California law requires all vehicle occupants to wear seatbelts. If you weren’t wearing one and got hurt, your compensation might be reduced. Insurance adjusters and courts often look at seatbelt use when deciding how much your injuries were worth. This law applies even if you’re sitting in the backseat.
Passengers should seek medical care quickly
Delaying medical treatment can hurt your case. Insurance companies may claim your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. If you’re injured, get checked out as soon as possible. Timely care also helps document your condition, which is useful if you file a personal injury claim.
Passengers must provide honest statements
If you’re asked to give a statement about the crash, be truthful. False information can damage your credibility and any injury claim you file. You should stick to facts and avoid guessing about what happened or who caused the accident.
Pay attention to your actions
As a passenger, your behavior matters more than you might expect. California law doesn’t let you off the hook just because you weren’t driving. The way you act before, during, and after a crash can all impact any legal claim you make.