What to Do After a Car Accident While on Vacation
If you end up having a car accident while on vacation, it is important for you to act in the same way you would if you were to have an accident in your home city.
If your vehicle is in the middle of the road, move it to a safe place near the accident scene. Check yourself and others for injuries, and give first aid to anyone who is injured. Call 911 to report your accident and summon help. When the police arrive, they will complete a short investigation to make an initial determination of liability. Tell the officer what happened, but stick to the facts. Don’t speculate or admit fault. Ask the officer how to get a copy of the accident report, and make sure you follow through when it’s ready.
Make sure to exchange information with the other driver as well, including name, phone number, address, email address, driver’s license number, insurance information, and registration information. Write down or take photos of the other vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number. If any witnesses saw your accident, encourage them to stay and tell the police what they saw. You should also ask witnesses for their names and contact information.
If you are injured, immediately seek medical attention. You shouldn’t wait to see a doctor until you return home. Even if you think you are fine, you should still consider going to an urgent care center or the emergency department to make sure you don’t have any hidden injuries. Ask the medical staff to provide you with documentation of your visit and any diagnosis you received.
Finally, speak with a personal injury attorney before you file an insurance claim. You will want to avoid making statements to the at-fault motorist’s insurer about the accident or your injuries. An attorney can handle communications with the insurance company for you and ensure that you don’t say something that could hurt your case.
What If You Need a Different Vehicle?
If your car is inoperable after your accident, you should check your insurance policy to see if you have rental car coverage. If you do, you can rent a car under your policy. Your insurance company will pay your rental vehicle fees and seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurer. If you do not have rental car coverage and have to pay out-of-pocket, save all of your receipts. You might recover your rental car costs through an accident settlement.
Why You Should Hire an Attorney in the State Where Your Accident Occurred
All states have different insurance laws and regulations. The laws in the state where your accident happened might be different than the laws in your state. It is best for you to work with an attorney in the state where your collision occurred because that state’s laws are the ones that will apply to your accident. A local attorney can help you navigate the unfamiliar laws to ensure you receive the compensation to which you are entitled.
Speak to the Attorneys at the Law Offices of Bryan Musgrave
If you were injured in a car accident while on vacation in Missouri, you should speak to the experienced car accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Bryan Musgrave. We can review your case and help you understand your potential claim. Call us today for a free consultation at 417-322-2222.