Traveling for the Holidays: What to Do if You’re in an Out-of-State Collision

by | Dec 15, 2021 | Safe Driving Tips

December is a popular month for interstate travel due to visiting family and friends during the holidays. With snow, ice, and more cars on the road, accidents are bound to happen. Getting in an accident in itself can be stressful and confusing, but drivers tend to get more worried when that accident is out of state. So, if you’re traveling for the holidays, keep these steps and tips in mind.

The first things to keep in mind are the same for any car accident. If possible, move your vehicle off the road so you aren’t blocking traffic. Check yourself or any passengers for injuries and call 911 to let them know you’ve been in an accident. They’ll need to know where you currently are, so look for any signs or landmarks. If the other driver is okay, you can also ask them if they’re from the area and happen to know where you are.

When the police arrive, they’ll ask for a statement from you and the other driver. They’ll also ask for your driver’s license, insurance cards, and contact information. This is so you and the other driver have each other’s information for filing an insurance claim for repairs or personal injuries.

Remember to take pictures of the damages at the scene. The insurance company will want documentation of the damages at the site at which the accident occurred.

Once you’ve given your statement, the police will give you a paper with the other driver’s information, along with the case number. This is so you can obtain the police report later on if the insurance company asks for it.

If your vehicle is still drivable, and you’ve done everything the police have asked for, you’re free to go. You should call your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident, but many claims can be filed through an app as well.

Where you have your car towed is your choice. Be sure to have it taken to a shop you know and trust. Crossroads Collision has been serving the Twin Cities area for over 40 years. We offer 24-hour towing. Our specialty is making sure we deal with all the details, including working with your insurance.

We hope you travel safe this holiday season!