Getting into a car accident is stressful enough for anyone. However, the situation is even more confusing if the accident takes place when you are far from home. If you live out of state and you get into a car accident while you’re driving through Ohio, it’s important to know your rights and options.
Does your car insurance policy cover you out of state?
Your car insurance policy still covers you, at least to some extent. Insurance policies change from company to company and from state to state. Ohio may have different rules than your state, which can affect your coverage. A broadening clause may apply in certain situations. This is a clause in your insurance that allows your policy to be converted to minimum insurance requirements for another state when you travel.
What laws apply if I have an accident in Ohio?
When you are from another state and get into a car accident in Ohio, Ohio laws apply, not those where you are from. If you are from a no-fault state, those laws may not apply to your Ohio accident. Some states apply comparative negligence, meaning that the level of fault you have for the accident may be deducted from the compensation you recover. Some states say that if you are found to be 50% responsible or higher, you may not be able to recover damages at all.
If you are in an accident in Ohio, you will need to hire an attorney who is licensed to practice law in Ohio if you want or need to file a personal injury lawsuit. A lawsuit can help you recover medical expenses, lost wages and other damages if you are seriously injured.