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Car Accidents Over State Lines

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Car accidents are devastating, and even more so when they occur far from home. This is because the question of jurisdiction comes into play, which differs from state to state. At Kalfus & Nachman, our trusted Norfolk personal injury attorneys know nothing is quite as upsetting as when an untimely accident interrupts your vacation or business trip. This is why we seek to be your legal guide throughout this complicated process, relieving any concerns you have about out-of-state rules.

Deciding when, where, and how to sue are all legitimate concerns, ones we seek to resolve. The last thing our team at Kalfus & Nachman want is for your case to be dismissed due to lack of jurisdiction, which is why we will ensure your case is as strong as possible. This begins with an investigation of the scene, and we advise you document everything as meticulously as possible with photographs. Once a police report is filed, our legal team will handle the rest--protecting and promoting your best interests above all else.

Car Accidents In Another State: What Happens Next?

A vast majority of insurance companies extend coverage all across the US and even Canada, but double check with your provider to be sure.

The tricky part comes if and when an injury has occurred. That's because several states (and Washington, DC) have a “no-fault” policy when it comes to car accidents, meaning injured drivers draw from their own insurance first after an accident. Those states are:

  • Florida
  • Hawaii
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • North Dakota
  • Pennsylvania
  • Utah
  • The District of Columbia

That means no matter who's at fault, your accident is paid for by your insurance. The only exception is if someone sustains a very serious injury. In addition, some states have varying degrees of shared liability in accidents that can reduce or negate your compensation for damages.

Pure comparative fault states allow you to collect damages proportionate to your total fault in the accident—meaning you'd receive $1,000 in damages if your total costs were $2,000 and you were 50% responsible for the accident.

Likewise, you'd receive $500 out of $2,000 if the accident was 75% your fault.

In modified comparative fault states, you may only collect damages if your are less than 50% responsible.

And in states who follow contributory negligence, anyone partially at fault for the accident is unable to collect damages.

Also, be mindful of the statute of limitations in each state you are traveling to (meaning how long you have after an accident to file a lawsuit). Most states allow claims up to a year after an accident, but this number may vary.

That being said, a crash outside your home state doesn't have to be more stressful than one close to home. Keep a cool head and you'll be just fine.

Contact Our Experienced & Skilled Norfolk Personal Injury Lawyers Today

Have you been injured in an auto accident in another state? If so, look no further than Kalfus & Nachman for trusted Norfolk personal injury attorneys who won’t leave you in the dark. We will ensure you are as informed and comfortable as possible until your case is resolved. Our legal team is reliable, available, and willing to resolve even the most complex of legal issues. All it takes is one call to get the legal counsel, care, and representation you deserve.

To speak to a member of our team, please call us at (855) 880-8163.
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