With so many people traveling worldwide for work or leisure, the likelihood of getting involved in a car accident with a driver from another state is very high. Getting involved in a car accident can be complicated, but the situation gets even more complex when hit by an out-of-state driver.
Understanding the steps to take when involved in a car accident with a driver from another state can make the process easier. Luckily, this guide outlines the actions you should take immediately after the accident.
- Check If You Have Sustained Any Injuries
The first thing you must do once involved in a car accident with driver from another state is to stop and record the accident scene. Each state has hit-and-run laws that prohibit drivers from fleeing the accident scene. Get out of your vehicle and check if you have sustained any injuries. You may call the police if the accident appears major and you or the other driver have sustained severe injuries.
- Obtain The Out-Of-State Driver’s Details
You must obtain as much information about the driver as possible. Record the driver’s name, license details, and contact information. Also, write down the driver’s car plate number and take photos and videos of the accident scene.
- Go To the Nearest Hospital
If you sustained minor or severe accident-related injuries, you must visit the nearest hospital as soon as possible. See a doctor even if you feel fine since you could have sustained hidden injuries that can lead to severe complications later.
Request the doctor to write you a comprehensive medical report, as it will come in handy when following your claim. Attach the bills and keep them safe.
File For An Insurance Claim
If you live in a state with no-fault laws, you might call your insurance provider and file a no-fault claim if you did not sustain serious injuries. The insurer will preside over the case and investigate to ascertain how the accident happened and request your medical treatment records before making a compensation offer.
If you live in a fault-based state, you must call the insurance provider of the at-fault driver, as they are at liberty to resolve the claim. If you live in a comparative negligence state, you and the out-of-state driver share the accident responsibilities.
File A Legal Claim
A driver from another state has no right to cause a car accident and get away with it. Therefore, if you cannot negotiate a settlement with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, you have a right to file a legal claim against the out-of-state insurance company.
You may hire an accident lawyer to help you navigate the complex legal process and ensure you get the total compensation you deserve.
Handle A Car Accident With A Driver From Another State Like A Pro
Once involved in a car accident with a driver from another state, you may find it challenging to know where to start. The most important thing to do is to check if you have sustained injuries and rush to the hospital for treatment. To know which insurance company will handle the claim, you must understand if your state operates fault or non-fault laws.
