After a car accident in St. Louis involving someone from another state, a few extra challenges can come into play. Accidents are never simple, but an out-of-state driver brings in issues you might not expect at first.
Seek legal guidance from our St. Louis car accident attorneys at Meyerkord & Kurth. Schedule your free consultation today.
Steps to Take Right After a Car Accident in St. Louis
After you’re involved in any car accident, there are certain steps you should take. These become even more important if you are involved in an accident with someone who doesn’t live in the state.
Call 911
As soon as the crash happens, call 911. You want to make sure a police report is made, documenting what happened and the parties involved in the accident.
Document the Scene and Damage
Take clear photos of all vehicles involved in the accident, capturing license plates and any visible damage. If you notice an out-of-state tag or a commercial vehicle, make sure to photograph those details as well. Try to show the whole accident scene, not just the cars. If anyone has physical injuries, document those with photos, too.
Exchange Information with the Other Driver
Share your name, address, insurance details, and driver’s license information with the other driver. If the other vehicle is a rental or from an employer, make a note of that fact. Get as much information as possible.
Look for Witnesses and Video Evidence
Ask people nearby if they saw what happened. Try to get their names and phone numbers. Also look around for cameras – surveillance cameras outside a store or even a doorbell camera at someone’s house. If you find one pointing toward the accident scene, write down its location so you can share it with your lawyer when you speak with them.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Once things settle down, reach out to your insurance company. This step is necessary, even if the other driver was at fault. Provide the facts, but don’t agree to a recorded statement until you’ve at least spoken to a St. Louis car accident attorney.
Talk with a Car Accident Lawyer in St. Louis
The best way to make sure everything goes smoothly with your claim is to speak with a lawyer. This is especially important when the other party lives in another state.
Which State Law Applies if The Driver is Out of State?
Where a Missouri crash occurs, Missouri tort law manages who is liable. Fault gets divided according to each driver’s role in causing the accident, and the victim can receive damages minus their percentage of fault. Missouri rules control how courts handle any evidence and legal procedures. It doesn’t matter if the other driver lives somewhere else.
Where Do You File Your Case?
Car accidents in Missouri usually end up in a Missouri state court. Sometimes federal court becomes an option, depending on the specifics of the case and amount of your damages. Your attorney will know how to handle sending notice of your lawsuit and formally delivering paperwork across state borders to the other party.
Out-of-State Insurance and Coverage Gaps
Some drivers’ insurance companies might be based in different states, especially for out-of-state drivers. You still deal with your claim locally after a crash in Missouri. Most policies include default provisions for out-of-state drivers. Usually, insurance coverage “adjusts up” to meet Missouri’s minimum legal requirements, regardless of a lower policy limit listed.
Sometimes the other driver’s insurance isn’t enough or they dispute liability. When this happens, your own insurance, including any under insured and uninsured motorist coverage, may fill the gap. Always look over your policy with an attorney to find out how much you can claim and make sure you get everything you’re owed.
For help with a car accident with an out-of-state driver, call Meyerkord & Kurth today at (314) 300-3000 to schedule your free consultation.