Interstate travel is a regular activity for many Americans, whether for work, leisure, or visiting family. However, car accidents that occur across state lines from your home present unique challenges when filing insurance claims.

Variations in insurance laws, reporting requirements, and legal jurisdictions complicate the aftermath of an out-of-state crash. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can streamline your claim and lead to a faster resolution.

A Michigan car crash attorney at Fieger Law can provide invaluable guidance if you’re involved in an interstate accident. Our experienced team has extensive knowledge of the complexities of multi-state accidents and can help protect your interests.

What To Do Immediately After an Interstate Accident

After a crash out-of-state, protecting your rights and well-being is crucial. Take the following steps immediately after the collision:

Ensure Your Safety: If possible, move to a safe area out of the way of oncoming traffic, check for injuries, and call 911 for emergency help. “Secondary” crashes can occur when a second crash is caused by the “primary” crash, e.g., an oncoming driver swerving into another lane to avoid the crash in front of them and hitting another vehicle in the process.

  • Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a medical provider as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Medical care helps you receive proper diagnosis and treatment and documents your injuries.
  • Exchange Information: Collect names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers from all parties involved. Also, note the accident’s location, including the nearest mile marker or exit if on the highway.
  • Speak With an Attorney: At Fieger Law, we can help you put together the best possible case for compensation, regardless of whether your crash occurred in Michigan or elsewhere. However, when multiple states are involved, it is better to get an attorney involved sooner rather than later to ensure you understand how your claim might be affected regarding available insurance and filing deadlines.

How To Document the Scene of an Accident

To effectively support your insurance claim, comprehensive documentation is essential. Gather the following to strengthen your case:

  • Take Photos: Photograph the accident scene, including all involved vehicles, visible injuries, road conditions, and nearby traffic signs. These images document the extent of the damage and the conditions under which the accident occurred.
  • Gather Witness Information: Get the names and contact information of witnesses. Their testimonies can help insurance adjusters and lawyers resolve disputes about who is at fault.
  • Report to Police: Always report the accident, even if it seems minor. In Michigan, you must immediately report accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Obtain a copy of the official police report from the state where the accident occurred for your insurance claim.
  • Gather and Preserve Evidence: Keep all accident-related documents, including medical records and repair estimates. Maintain all relevant documents and photos in an organized file or make digital copies to share with your attorney.

Strengthen your claim with Fieger Law. Contact us today for personalized support in documenting your damages and securing the compensation you deserve.

Dealing With Insurance and Legal Challenges in Cross-State Accidents

Working with a local attorney can help you manage your claim if you’re an out-of-state driver involved in a Michigan accident. Fieger Law can assist you with the following:

  • Notifying Insurance Companies: Car accident victims must promptly inform their home state insurer and the Michigan parties. We can handle this process on your behalf, meeting all procedural deadlines and maintaining your claim’s eligibility.
  • Providing Specialized Legal Advice: Our team can offer insights into Michigan’s legal requirements for auto accidents, ensuring you understand your rights and responsibilities. We can also help Michigan residents injured in crashes away from home.
  • Compiling Evidence: Your legal team can help gather evidence for your case, including requesting video of the accident from nearby traffic or security cameras, consulting expert witnesses, and consolidating medical records to support your claim.
  • Managing Communications With All Parties: We can communicate with insurance companies, legal teams, and other parties involved in your case. This includes navigating differing state laws, coordinating with out-of-state insurers, and meeting legal requirements across jurisdictions.
  • Assessing and Pursuing Compensation: We can evaluate the full extent of possible compensation for damages and injuries based on state law. We can determine what you’re entitled to as an out-of-state claimant and seek the full amount.
  • Representation in Michigan Courts if Necessary: Fieger Law is prepared to represent you in Michigan courts if your case requires litigation. We provide strong advocacy tailored to your unique circumstances as an out-of-state driver.

Get the Compensation You Deserve

If you’re in a collision while driving through Michigan from another state or vice versa, you need skilled legal representation. At Fieger Law, our dedicated team of Michigan car crash attorneys has decades of experience with auto accident cases nationwide.

We’ll fight for a fair settlement covering all damages and strive to make the process as seamless as possible for you. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and get legal guidance from our qualified attorneys.