Getting into a car accident is never convenient. But, at least if it happens when you’re in your hometown, you know where to go for medical care and who to contact for help. Navigating a car accident while on vacation in an unfamiliar city or state can make the process even more overwhelming.
Learn what important steps you should take if you’re involved in a car wreck while on vacation:
Notify the Local Police
You should always report a car accident, regardless of where you’re currently located. Filing a police report can help you receive any benefits you’re entitled to later on. The police can also call for any medical help if you, or another passenger, requires it. The police may also call a tow truck for you.
Notify Your Insurance Company
You’ll also want to notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. They may have special requirements if you’re traveling outside of your state. If you were traveling, there’s a good chance you may have been driving a rental car. In this case, you’ll also want to notify the rental company.
Collect Evidence
While navigating any car accident, whether it’s at home or on vacation, be mindful of keeping important documents. You may need certain evidence to pursue benefits later. Important evidence to collect includes medical records, a copy of the police report, witness information, and contact information for the other driver.
Talk With a Lawyer
Many things can arise that can make dealing with a car accident away from home more confusing. For one, the insurance company may try to deny your claim, especially if you were driving a rental. It’s even possible for your insurance company to deny your claim because you weren’t at home.
The costs of being in a car accident on vacation may also exceed the average cost of a car accident. You may pay more for medical bills, especially if you have to go out of network for medical care. You’ll also likely have to rent a car to get around. Some car accidents may even require that you change your travel plans, which can be costly.
Your Rights Following a Car Accident on Vacation
If another driver is responsible for your car accident on vacation, you may be able to seek compensation from them. Common causes of car accidents may include distracted driving, driving while under the influence, fatigued driving, or reckless driving. Each of these could be considered negligence.
If the other driver’s negligence led to your car accident, you may be able to recover the cost of your damages. Damages may include things like medical bills, lost wages, temporary transportation costs, and even legal fees. It’s important to note that state laws often vary, including what you can recover and how much. This is why it’s always a good idea to contact a car accident lawyer based in the area where your car accident takes place. This can also save additional costs by not traveling back and forth during your legal case.
Contact a Pembroke Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Car Accident Case in Florida
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in Florida? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled attorneys at Lawlor, White & Murphey represent clients injured because of an accident in Broward County, Fort Lauderdale, Coconut Creek, Plantation, and throughout Florida. Call (954) 525-2345 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 2211 Davie Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, as well as offices in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coconut Creek, Plantation, and Pompano Beach, FL.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.