Guidelines for an Out-of-State Car Accident

Car accidents are sudden, unexpected events. They can happen just as easily when driving along local routes, or when you are traveling out of state on vacation or for business.

At Naqvi Injury Law, we know that the negative impacts of any collision can be compounded by drivers who are uncertain of how to proceed. You may be familiar with the proper procedures to follow if you are involved in a car accident in Las Vegas, but do you know what to do when one happens away from home? We have assembled this guide to provide answers to your questions, highlighting three main areas of concern.  

What to Do When an Out-of-State Car Accident Occurs

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than seven million car accidents are reported throughout the United States each year. While some of these are no more than minor fender benders, others can leave drivers suffering serious and potentially life threatening injuries.

Getting the compensation you need for your medical costs, lost wages, and other expenses plays a key role in your recovery. In general, an out-of-state car accident should be handled the same as any other collision. Actions you need to take, which could influence your rights in filing a claim, include:

• Report the accident to local law enforcement or the state highway patrol.
• Get personal contact information for each of the drivers involved, along with their license, registration, and insurance numbers.
• Use your cellphone to take photos of the accident scene and the damage to your vehicle.
• Avoid making any statements that could be used against you later;
• Get medical care for your injuries, even if you are not experiencing symptoms.

Bear in mind that even a minor car accident can result in serious medical conditions, with symptoms that can take days or weeks to fully appear. Not seeking medical attention immediately after your accident will jeopardize your future rights to compensation.

Important Issues in Out-of-State Car Accidents

While some of the same guidelines for protecting yourself after a car accident apply regardless of where your crash or collision occurs, there are three specific issues that you need to be aware of with out-of-state car accidents:

• Insurance Claims: Your car insurance policy will cover you in an out-of-state accident, but claims procedures and minimum coverage requirements vary by state. This could impact your rights in a claim and the amount you can collect through the other driver’s insurer.
• Injury Lawsuits: While the Nevada Revised Statutes provide guidelines for filing lawsuits in personal injury cases, an out-of-state car accident will be subject to the laws of the state it occurred in.  
• Business or Personal: If you or the other driver was using a work vehicle or traveling for business purposes, different policies and procedures will likely apply.

Ultimately, understanding these three issues can help you keep prepared if you are ever involved in an out-of-state car accident.