How Does Being Hit by an Out of State Driver Affect My Claim?

Anyone who’s traveled the nation’s highways knows that motor vehicle crashes can be deadly and result in catastrophic injuries. In 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported 36,120 people died in car accidents across the United States.

Americans are known for being mobile. In southern Maryland, thousands crisscross the state and into the District of Columbia for work every day. Sometimes, through no fault of our own, we’re hit by out-of-state drivers.

If you live in Maryland and were hit by an out-of-state driver, you can still pursue compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, and other losses in your home state. A car accident lawyer at Trollinger Law LLC in Maryland and Washington, D.C. can help you with injury claims. Get started by scheduling a free consultation today.

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What Happens If I Got into an Accident with an Out-of-State Driver?

Resolving car accident claims can be simpler when both drivers are in the same state. With out-of-state car accidents, there are other considerations.

For example, not all states have the same statute of limitations when it comes to car accident claims. If you’re planning on filing for compensation, you need to know which statute of limitations applies to your claim so that you don’t lose out because of a missed deadline.

In addition, states differ in how they determine who is eligible for compensation. Maryland is one of a handful of states that uses a contributory negligence doctrine to determine liability. It’s a harsh standard. If a driver is found even one percent responsible for a wreck, he or she can’t recover any compensation at all.

By contrast, the majority of states operate under some form of comparative negligence. This law allows claimants to collect a portion of money depending on their percentage of fault for the accident. The stakes are high in either case, but there’s much less flexibility in a contributory negligence state like Maryland. For that reason, it’s a good idea to talk to a car accident lawyer about how the laws apply in your case.

Which State Will I File My Claim In?

If you are hit by an out-of-state driver in Maryland, state laws apply and you can file the action in a Maryland court.

Steps to Take After an Accident in Maryland Involving Non-Resident Drivers

No matter who is at fault in an accident, you can protect your case by following these tips:

• Don’t leave the scene of the accident.
• Notify law enforcement.
• Offer assistance to everyone involved.
• Get medical attention, even if you feel fine.
• Exchange information (driver’s license, insurance info, etc.).
• Gather evidence (take pictures, get names of witnesses, etc.).
• Notify your insurance company.
• Never admit fault.
• Contact an experienced Maryland car accident lawyer at Trollinger Law LLC.

How Trollinger Law LLC Can Help with My Car Accident Claim

Trollinger Law LLC is here to protect your best interests. We represent clients in Waldorf, Charles County, southern Maryland and the greater D.C. area. You can rely on us to fight for full and fair compensation in your car accident case, both during settlement talks and at trial, if necessary.

Put us to work for you. Get started by arranging a no-cost case review with Attorney Matt Trollinger now.