Summer in Atlanta often means congested roads filled with tourists and vacationers. With more non-residents passing through, the chances of a collision involving an out-of-state driver increase. If youāre involved in this type of accident, itās essential to know your legal rights and how Georgia law applies.
Can You Take Legal Action in Georgia?
Yes. Even if the other motorist lives in a different state, you can still pursue a claim in Georgia if the crash happened here. State courts have jurisdiction over incidents that occur within their borders, ensuring your case is handled according to Georgiaās laws and procedures.
Immediate Steps After the Crash
Your safety comes first. Reach out to 911, seek medical attention if needed, and gather key information at the scene. This should include the driverās contact and insurance details, license plate number, and pictures of the vehicles and the surroundings. Make sure you obtain a copy of the police report, as it will be critical to supporting your claim.
What If the Driver Leaves Georgia?
Some motorists return to their home state after an accident, which can complicate the process. Fortunately, Georgia law lets you file a lawsuit even if the out-of-state driver is no longer in the state.
Under Georgiaās long-arm statute, you can serve legal notice across state lines as long as the incident occurred in Georgia. This connection is usually sufficient to establish jurisdiction. If you exchanged details at the scene, an attorney can help track down the other party and ensure proper notice is given.
Why You Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident Involving a Non-Resident
Crashes involving out-of-state drivers can be more complicated than typical cases due to jurisdictional issues and insurance differences. A seasoned lawyer for a car accident can support you in the following ways:
- Proving fault under Georgiaās at-fault system
- Coordinating with insurance carriers from other states
- Filing all necessary documents in Georgia courts
- Seeking full compensation for your injuries and other financial losses
Having the right legal support can help you navigate these challenges efficiently.
Insurance Complications Across State Lines
Coverage requirements differ by state. The out-of-state driver may have less insurance coverage than Georgia law mandates, which could impact your compensation. A trusted lawyer for a car accident can review your case and explore other options, such as your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy, to make up the difference.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve
If an out-of-state driver caused your accident in Georgia, let Fry | Goehring provide the legal support you need. Our team will handle the legal challenges so you can focus on moving forward. Reach out now for a free consultation.
