Often, we at Dennis and King from people who are terrible injured by a negligent driver that they don’t feel comfortable as a Christian to make a claim against the negligent driver. While, the Bible does not specifically state that suing someone who has injured you is wrong, there are certain teachings and principles in the Bible that may be interpreted as discouraging or prohibiting the act of suing someone.
For example, the Bible teaches the principle of forgiveness and turning the other cheek. In Matthew 5:38-39, Jesus says “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also.” This passage has been interpreted to mean that Christians should not seek revenge or seek legal retribution against someone who has wronged them.
Another teaching that may be relevant is found in 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, which discourages Christians from taking each other to court, but rather to be reconciled through the church rather than secular court.
But, it’s important to note that the Bible is a complex text that can be interpreted in different ways, and individuals’ perspectives on the relevance of these teachings to the question of suing someone may vary.
So, What Should Happen If A Christian Claims Personal Injury When An Insured Driver Injures Them?
The Bible does not provide specific guidance on what a Christian should do if an insured driver injures them. Also, it’s worth noting that seeking compensation for damages through the legal system does not necessarily mean seeking revenge or retribution, but rather seeking justice and restoration of what has been lost.
There are several biblical teachings that may encourage an at-fault driver to take responsibility for the damages they cause. One teaching is found in the Golden Rule, which is stated in Matthew 7:12, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” This principle is often interpreted to mean that individuals should treat others as they would want to be treated. In the context of an at-fault driver, this would mean that the driver should take responsibility for the damages they caused and make restitution to the person they harmed.
Another relevant teaching is found in James 4:17, which states, “Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.” This passage suggests that individuals have a moral responsibility to do what is right, even if it is difficult or inconvenient. In the context of an at-fault driver, this would mean that the driver should take responsibility for their actions and make restitution to the person they harmed.
A third teaching is found in Ezekiel 18:20, which states, “The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not bear the guilt of the father, nor the father bear the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself.” This passage suggests that individuals are responsible for their own actions and will be held accountable for them. In the context of an at-fault driver, this would mean that the driver should take responsibility for the damages they caused and make restitution to the person they harmed.
It’s important to keep in mind that the Bible is a complex text that can be interpreted in different ways, and individuals’ perspectives on the relevance of these teachings to the question of an at-fault driver paying for the damages they caused may vary.
Ultimately, it’s a personal decision that should be based on the guidance of your faith and the counsel of your spiritual advisor, in addition to seeking legal advice.
If you need information on the legal side of you personal injury case, call us at 423-892-5533 or contact us online or chat with us on this website. We have been helping people like you make the best legal decision for themselves for 45 years. Dennis and King—we can help even if you don’t hire us.
