As the weather warms up and schools let out for spring break, thousands of drivers hit the highways for road trips and beach vacations. Unfortunately, with heavier traffic, distracted drivers, and increased alcohol use, this season also sees a spike in car accidents. In fact, Virginia reported 6,979 alcohol-related crashes in 2023 alone, a nearly 7% increase from the previous year (source).
If you’re injured in a car accident while traveling out of state for spring break, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do next — especially when dealing with unfamiliar laws and insurance processes. Here’s a practical guide to help you protect your health, your rights, and your claim.
Call 911 and Stay Safe
First, make sure you and your passengers are safe. Move to the side of the road if possible and call 911 to report the accident. In Virginia, it’s legally required to report any crash involving injury, death, or property damage (source). A police report will be an important document for insurance claims and potential legal action.
Exchange Information and Gather Evidence
Collect the names, contact information, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details of everyone involved. If it’s safe, take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Witness statements can be valuable too — jot down their contact info if you can (source).
Seek Medical Care Right Away
Even if you feel okay, it’s crucial to get checked out by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, like concussions or soft tissue damage, might not show symptoms immediately. Early medical treatment not only protects your health but also creates documentation for your insurance and any future claims (source).
Notify Your Insurance Company
Let your insurance provider know about the accident as soon as possible. Share the facts, but avoid speculating about fault. Most policies have deadlines for reporting accidents and beginning the claims process, so acting quickly is important (source).
Know the Law in the State Where the Accident Happened
Virginia is an “at-fault” state, which means the driver responsible for the accident is liable for damages. But if your accident occurs in a “no-fault” state, your own insurance may cover certain expenses, regardless of who caused the crash (source). Understanding these differences can impact how you file claims and pursue compensation.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating an out-of-state accident can get complicated quickly. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, handle communications with insurance companies, and secure the compensation you deserve.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Personal Injury Attorneys
If you have suffered an injury, don’t go through it alone. Help is available today. Get in touch with the Personal Injury Attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC today to discuss your case with one of our Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C. Attorneys. You can contact us toll-free at (703) 560-0700.
References:
https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/sites/default/files/documents/VA-traffic-crash-2023.pdf
https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title8.01/chapter3/section8.01-58/
