The holidays are upon us. Plenty of people will be traveling this season, driving to see loved ones and celebrate the end of another year. The roads will be crowded with people traveling from place to place, so be careful as accidents are bound to happen. These accidents can be even more stressful if you’re in a different state. If you’re injured in a car accident in another state, you should know a few things ahead of time.

Some Things Remain the Same

No matter what state your auto accident occurs in, there are a few things that are going to remain the same. Be sure to do the following, just like you would if you were in your home state:

• Check for injuries on yourself, as well as on your passengers. You need to determine if you need medical care.
• Call the police. In some states, police only respond to accidents with serious injuries. You still need to file a police report, though.
• Exchange information with the driver of the other vehicle, as well as any witnesses.
• Take photographs of the accident scene if you’re able to do so.
• Call your insurance company to alert them about the accident.
• Get in touch with a lawyer to help evaluate your rights.

Things to Consider About the State You’re In

The state where the accident occurred determines the laws applicable to your case. Depending on what state you’re from, you may be familiar with tort regulations or no-fault regulations. Tort insurance is a system in which drivers seek compensation from the other party that caused the accident.

On the other hand, there are also no-fault states. No-fault insurance is a system where drivers are required to purchase liability insurance. This liability insurance covers their and their passengers’ bodily injuries and property damage. The state that your accident occurs in makes a big difference in your auto accident case. If you have questions, speak with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer for clarification.

Personal Injury Claims vs. Lawsuits

While insurance claims can be filed and negotiated from anywhere, personal injury lawsuits are filed in the state where the accident occurred. This means that the statute of limitations of that state will apply to the time you have to file a case. Talk to an attorney as soon as possible to determine how long you must file a lawsuit. Missing an important deadline will put your legal claim at risk.

Whether you are still traveling or once you are back home, you should consult a knowledgeable accident lawyer to help determine your rights. Should you hire a lawyer in the state in which the accident occurred? A lawyer in the state where the accident occurred will know the local laws that apply to your case. However, if you prefer, you may elect to hire a lawyer in your home state. As necessary, your lawyer will work with a lawyer in the state where the accident occurred, most often at no additional cost to you.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, an experienced accident lawyer to help determine your rights. Contact us today to file your claim.