What to Do If You're Involved in a Car Accident While Traveling

For many Americans, car travel is a routine part of life, whether for business or leisure. From cross-country road trips to rental cars on vacation, the open road often takes us far from home. But if you’re injured in a car accident while traveling, the situation becomes particularly challenging.

People find themselves driving in unfamiliar places for all sorts of reasons — a family vacation, a business meeting, a major event, or even to explore a new city before a potential move. Whatever the purpose of your trip, being away from home can make an already stressful event even harder to handle. This guide is here to help you understand and manage the unique obstacles that come with handling a car accident far from your usual support network.

Steps To Take Immediately After an Accident

Regardless of where the accident happens, it is crucial to take the following steps:

Ensure Safety

If possible, move to a safe location and check for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and get medical assistance if needed.

Share and Collect Contact Information

Exchange information with the other party (parties) involved in the accident, including name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate number.

Document the Scene

If possible, take photos and videos of the accident scene (or ask someone else to do so). Capture details of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs and signals.

File a Police Report

A police report is essential for insurance claims and legal matters. Check to make sure it accurately reflects the accident details.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Provide your insurance provider with accurate, detailed information about the accident.

Deal with the Logistics

Make arrangements for any necessary vehicle repairs. Rent a substitute vehicle for replacement while traveling or arrange for alternative transportation if your vehicle is not drivable.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Get a medical evaluation to rule out any hidden issues and prevent an undiscovered injury from worsening.

Consult With an Experienced Attorney

If you have suffered a serious injury due to someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to damages for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and all other related costs. A seasoned attorney will evaluate your case and, if appropriate, help you file a personal injury lawsuit and fight for your right to meaningful damages.

The Special Challenges of Dealing With a Car Accident in an Unfamiliar Location

Handling a car accident away from home is complicated because:

Traffic Laws and Insurance Regulations Vary From State to State

This means that you may have inadvertently committed a traffic violation or that an action you believed to be illegal may be allowable here.

You Are Not Familiar With Local Resources

In addition to having a possibly inoperable car after the collision, you are unlikely to know which local mechanic to use, which medical facilities provide the best care, or where to stay for the night.

You May Not Know Whom To Trust

If you are far from home and do not know anyone in the area, you may be hesitant to seek medical, insurance, or legal advice.

Why It Is Important To Consult With a Local Attorney

Consulting with a local attorney who is known for integrity as well as legal prowess is vital. A knowledgeable lawyer in the vicinity will be able to clarify the details of local traffic laws and insurance practices and may have information about — and perhaps even helpful connections with — local repair shops, doctors, insurance companies,

and courts (particularly relevant if a lawsuit is likely to be filed).

How To Select the Right Attorney Wherever You Are

You may feel less confident choosing the right lawyer in an unfamiliar environment. Things to look for are:

• Specialization: Look for an attorney who specializes in personal injury and has a history of successful outcomes with car accident cases.
• Reputation: Research the law practice’s reputation by reading reviews, checking with the local bar association, and asking for referrals from reliable sources.
• Local Presence: Make sure the attorney you select has a strong presence in the local community and is familiar with the court in which your case will be adjudicated.

If possible, consult with several attorneys to select the one who is most responsive to your needs and with whom you feel most comfortable.

Services an Accomplished Attorney Should Provide

To effectively manage your case, a competent attorney should provide the following:

• Case evaluation for a realistic assessment of your claim
• Vigorous negotiation with opposing attorneys and insurance adjusters
• Powerful legal representation to recover maximum compensation
• Ongoing legal guidance as the case progresses

The Takeaway

Coping with the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of a car accident, especially while traveling, is complicated and confusing. In this situation, having a local attorney at your side is invaluable. This content provides a head start in taking the necessary steps to protect your rights. Contacting a caring, capable attorney can make a significant difference in your recovery, your compensation, and your peace of mind.