5 Things You Need to Do After a Car Accident in a Different State
Getting into a car accident is always stressful. But it can be even more confusing when it happens in a different state, especially one you’re not familiar with. You may wonder who to call, what steps to take, and how your insurance will work far from home.
The laws in different states might not be the same as in your home state. That leads many people to ask: what happens if I get in a wreck in another state? The answer depends on several things, including where the accident happened, your insurance policy, and who was at fault.
The good news is that there are clear steps you can take to protect yourself and get the help you need.
Understanding Out-of-State Car Accidents
Each U.S. state has its own traffic laws and insurance rules. What applies in Florida may not apply in Arizona. If you’re involved in a car accident outside your home state, you may need to deal with new procedures, insurance challenges, and even legal differences.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 5 million police-reported motor vehicle accidents occur every year in the U.S. Many of these accidents involve drivers who are traveling or on vacation, far from their home state. This makes it important to understand how out-of-state accidents are handled and what you should do right away.
Immediate Actions to Take After the Accident
1. Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Care
The first thing you should always do is check if anyone is hurt. If you or someone else is injured, call 911 immediately. Don’t try to move anyone who is seriously injured unless there is an immediate danger. Afterwards, even if you feel fine, it’s still a good idea to see a doctor. Some injuries may not show up right away. Getting checked ensures your health and creates a medical record if you need to file a claim later.
2. Contact the Authorities
Always report the accident to local police, especially in another state. They will create a police report, which is an important document for insurance and legal purposes. Give them all the details honestly, and ask how to get a copy of the report later. Be sure to also ask for the names and badge numbers of the officers who respond.
3. Collect and Preserve Evidence
If it’s safe, take photos of the accident scene. Capture the damage to both vehicles, license plates, road signs, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from the other driver, including their name, phone number, license plate, insurance company, and policy number. If there are any witnesses, get their names and phone numbers too. The more information you collect, the easier it will be to file an insurance claim or take legal action if needed.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company as soon as you can. Most policies provide coverage across all 50 states, so you should still be protected even if you’re out of town. Let them know what happened and provide all the details and photos you collected. Your insurance provider will explain how to proceed with your claim and may help arrange towing or repairs in the area.
5. Consult with an Experienced Lawyer
Because laws can vary from state to state, it’s smart to speak with a personal injury lawyer, especially if the accident caused serious damage or injury. A local attorney will understand the state laws and can guide you on what steps to take next. They can also help you meet any filing deadlines or court requirements that apply in the state where the crash happened.
Final Thoughts
A car accident in another state can be confusing, but taking the right steps makes all the difference. Focus on safety first, report the accident, gather evidence, and reach out to your insurer and a lawyer. Understanding local rules and protecting your legal rights will help you recover faster, both financially and emotionally, so you can move forward with peace of mind.
