What should I do if I am involved in a car accident with an out-of-state driver?

Florida remains one of the highest traveled-to states in America. As a center of tourism and business, Florida sees millions of out-of-state drivers cross our borders each year. In most cases, out-of-state drivers carry insurance from their home state which is almost always different than the required coverage for Florida. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident involving an out-of-state driver and vehicle, it is important that they know:

You can bring a claim against an out-of-state driver and their insurance company. Most insurance companies are national and international companies. Whereas they provide different levels of coverage, depending on what state a driver lives in, the coverage is generally valid in any state the driver travels. If you have been injured by an out-of-state driver, you are entitled to view a copy of their insurance policy to see what coverage is available.

Drivers from other states can be made to appear in Florida Courts. If you are involved in an accident and notice the other vehicle has a license plate from another state, you might immediately wonder if you will ever see that person again. What if they just flee the state and go back to their home state? Florida Courts can summon an out-of-state driver into a Florida Court by use of what is commonly known as the Long-Arm Statute (Fl. Stat. 48.193). This law provides that when a driver crosses into Florida, they automatically consent to appear in Florida Courts in the event of an automobile accident.

CAUTION: It is important that you obtain as much information as possible following any auto accident, but especially one involving an out-of-state driver. Ensure that you speak with law enforcement and gather such information as to driver’s name, address, vehicle make/model, and license plate number and state.

Call Dan Newlin Injury Attorneys at (407) 888-8000: When a person is injured in an auto accident at the hands of an out-of-state driver, we immediately conduct a detailed investigation to acquire crucial date needed to identify all potential responsible parties. OUR INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES DO NOT STOP AT THE FLORIDA BORDER! My team and I will exhaust all efforts to locate and identify out-of-state drivers and vehicle owners to ensure that you are able to pursue a claim for your injuries and damages. Don’t leave any stone unturned. Call us today….you deserve a fighting chance!