What if I'm injured in someone else's car?

If you are injured as a passenger in someone else's car, your immediate priority should be your health and safety. Seek medical attention right away, even if your injuries seem minor, as some symptoms can take time to appear. It is also important to report the accident to the police and get the driver's insurance information.

When it comes to covering your medical costs and other losses, Ontario's "no-fault" insurance system has specific rules. You will first claim accident benefits through your own auto insurance policy, even though you were not driving. These benefits can cover medical treatments, rehabilitation, and lost income.

If you do not have your own car insurance, you would then turn to the insurance policy of the vehicle you were in. If neither policy is available, you may be able to claim benefits from the insurer of any other vehicle involved in the accident. As a last resort, Ontario has a Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund to assist injured individuals who have no other insurance recourse.

In situations where your injuries are serious and permanent, you may also have the right to sue the at-fault driver (or drivers) for damages. This could be the driver of the car you were in, another driver, or both. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your options and navigate the claims process.