Getting in a car accident is stressful. Getting in a car accident when you are traveling across state lines can be especially anxiety-ridden. If you or a loved one are injured in a car accident while traveling out-of-state, there are some key things you should know to make sure you get the coverage or compensation you deserve.
#1 Not all states have the same laws
Speed limits, requirements of car insurance and “no fault” laws can vary from state to state. If you get into a car accident out of state, it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney so that they can review any issues that might arise due to the state’s laws.
- Speed limit – pay attention to changing speed limits as you drive between states. In some states, highways observe a 55 or 65 mph speed limit while others have speed limits set 70.
- Liability limits – some state require lower liability limits for insurance. If you are driving in a lower liability state and get into an accident, your car insurance should cover the maximum amount allowed in your policy even if it’s more than what the state requires. But, some insurance carrier may try to use this law differentiation to get away with providing less coverage.
- No fault – There are some states that have a “no fault” law in place, meaning that your personal injury protection will pay for any injuries that occur in the accident no matter who was at fault.
#2 Your Car Insurance Coverage is Key
No matter what state the accident occurs in, or where you or the other driver are from, one of the most important factors will be the car insurance coverage that you each carry.
At GLS Injury Law, we help clients in the aftermath of car accidents on a regular basis and recommend checking your car insurance policy for the following five things:
What to have in your car insurance:
- Full tort over limited tort coverage
- At least $25,000.00 in medical coverage
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in an amount equal to your liability coverage
- Liability coverage of at least $50,000.00 per vehicle
- Stacked coverage over non-stacking
#3 It’s Important to Have an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Out-of-state car accidents can be complicated. If there are serious injuries, DUI or death involved, it can get very complex very quickly. Instead of trying to figure out if your car insurance carrier is fully covering what you need or worrying if the state’s laws are on your side, an experienced attorney can work to ensure you see justice.
If you are injured or involved in a car accident in Pennsylvania while traveling from another state, the experienced attorneys at GLS Injury Law are ready to guide you through this and help you receive the compensation you deserve. Call 717-394-3004 for a free consultation.
