Some people might find themselves traveling out of state occasionally for work, vacation, or adventure. Sadly, they could get into an accident while on these trips. The average American understands that different states use different legal systems and may be worried about what that means for an accident that happens outside their home state.
As car accident lawyers, we often encounter situations involving traveling out of state and understand why it could get someone worried. Therefore, our Canton personal injury lawyers explain what your rights are following an accident that occurs outside your home state.
Can I Be Compensated for an Accident While Traveling Out of State?
Car accident injury laws can get complicated when they involve accidents in other states. In typical cases where you’re traveling out of state, you could receive compensation if you were in an at-fault state, but what happens if your accident happened outside your home state? What laws will be applied? These questions can leave most people confused.
Fortunately, this article provides some answers. However, a quick note of warning is necessary. Always speak to a lawyer if you get into an accident out of state. An attorney is better positioned to advise you on the best course of action.
If you were involved in an accident outside the state where you reside, the short answer is that you may be compensated for your injuries. In most cases, what happens will be determined by the laws of the state where the accident occurred. For example, if you are from Canton but have an accident in Florida, you may be unable to file a personal injury claim as Florida operates a no-fault system.
However, if the crash happened in Maryland, you can sue since Maryland is an at-fault state. You must also remember that the Statute of Limitations in the state where you had the accident may differ from where you come from. Therefore, speaking to a lawyer as soon as possible should be your priority.
Something else to consider is who represents you. With often different legal systems, lawyers cannot always practice in more than a few states. This could affect the outcome of your case. Hiring a local lawyer is always a better option as they know the local courts better and can attend to situations as they arise.
Whereas, hiring a lawyer from outside the state where your case is being decided could make it harder to attend to matters as they arise while simultaneously driving up your legal fees. The pro hac vice principle may also affect your case. It allows lawyers from outside a state to represent clients while partnering with a local lawyer.
What Should You Do After a Car Accident in Another State?
Your actions after a car accident should be the same regardless of where the accident occurs. As always, your priority should be your health. An auto crash could cause injuries. However, they are not always obvious.
Don’t make the mistake of assuming you are not injured because you can’t see any injuries. Adrenaline is sent through your body after a stressful incident, and it could mask your injuries.
You can also attempt to get the contact information of the other driver and eyewitnesses. You may also find that the police show up at the accident scene. You could use their reports as evidence in your car accident case when they do. In addition, you can get some proof of your own by taking pictures of the accident scene.
After doing all these, you should contact a personal injury lawyer. Most lawyers offer a free consultation. That way, you don’t have to get stuck with a lawyer because you lack options. In addition, most personal injury lawyers will work using a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to spend any money until you win your case.
The Weinstein Firm Can Help You Claim Damages
One of the most important decisions you will make regarding your personal injury case is the lawyer you hire. Choosing the wrong person could result in you receiving less compensation than you deserve or nothing at all. Therefore, you need a lawyer with a track record of wins.
Equally important is hiring a lawyer that cares about clients and not just winning. That is what we bring to the table. When you hire us, you get a partner that will be with you throughout your case. We’ll help you with everything from investigating your claim, gathering witnesses and experts, and representing you in court. We also offer a free consultation. So contact The Weinstein Firm today.
