Getting in an Accident Out of State: What You Should Do

No one wants to get into an accident while traveling, but if you are traveling from out of state and get into an accident in South Carolina, don't panic. While being involved in an accident, especially on vacation, can be inconvenient, you should immediately report the accident to law enforcement and your insurance company. Just because you are out of your local area doesn't mean you should wait to get home to report the accident. Additionally, you should seek the help of an experienced South Carolina car accident attorney to understand your legal options and get the compensation you deserve. 

What to Do After an Out-Of-State Car Accident

Following an out-of-state car accident, there are several steps you should take immediately or in the days after the incident, including the following:

• Call the police and get a copy of the police report
• Take photographs of the accident scene, vehicles involved, and any visible injuries or damage
• Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver(s)
• Seek medical attention if you are injured
• Collect the names and contact information of witnesses to the accident
• Contact your insurance company to report the accident
• Seek legal advice if you are uncertain about the legal requirements in the other state

Filing a Claim for an Out-of-State Car Accident

If you are involved in an out-of-state auto accident that resulted in critical injuries to yourself or someone you care about, you should file a claim against the liable party. Filing a claim might allow you to seek compensation from the at-fault driver for medical expenses and other damages and losses caused by the accident.

Car insurance is regulated at the state level, meaning the rules and laws regarding out-of-state claims will vary from state to state. Therefore, you should check with the state's laws where the incident occurred. A South Carolina attorney can help you through this process as well. 

In most cases, out-of-state accident cases are complex, given that each state has its own set of rules and regulations that could impact the outcome of your case. In addition, your case is subject to the statute of limitations defined by the state where the accident occurred, which may be less or more than your state's deadline. Because of these factors, it's important that you contact a car accident lawyer immediately after a car accident, especially a serious one.

Contact Our Charleston Car Accident Lawyers Today for Help

If you are from Charleston, South Carolina, and need help filing a claim for an out-of-state accident, or you're visiting South Carolina and have been involved in an accident, call Lesemann & Associates at (843) 724-5155 or go online to schedule a free consultation.