An accident only increases stress for out-of-state drivers unfamiliar with California’s driving policies. Not sure how to handle a car accident in another state or wondering how can you sue a drunk driver in an out-of-state accident? The experienced lawyers at Avrek Law can provide wisdom and assistance for your case.
Can You Avoid Accidents in Coachella Valley?
Coachella Valley is home to nine cities, including Indio and Coachella. This desert landscape is prone to various road closures due to flooding and unpaved roads. While road closure signs should be followed, disobedience from residents only increases car accident reports. According to the California Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWIRTS), Indio experienced 179 injury crashes in 2021. This number adds to the 1,099 injury crashes in Coachella Valley that year.
Even with Indio’s reconstruction of Highway 111 to develop safer roads for pedestrians and drivers, a car accident in Indio or surrounding cities can still occur. It is even more likely during the festival with tourists traveling on unfamiliar roadways. As an out-of-state driver, it’s essential to know who to contact after a Coachella accident. Avrek Law has experience working in California and surrounding states to help you navigate the aftermath of your accident.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Indio During Coachella Weekend
It can be easy to skip steps when reporting a car accident in another state, especially one as large as California. California is an at-tort state meaning the injured victim must prove the other party liable to receive any compensation from the accident. Therefore, the proper accident protocol must be followed to avoid future issues.
These steps include:
- Stop. The California Department of Motor Vehicles requires you to stop after all accidents. Driving away puts you at risk of negligence.
- Verify that you do not have any severe injuries. If you do, seek medical attention by calling an ambulance.
- Check the health of the other parties, and if possible, move your car out of traffic. Turn on your emergency lights to notify others of the situation.
- Call the police. File a report and contact your insurance company to ensure your policy complies with California law.
- Exchange information. It’s important to exchange vehicle information, contact information and insurance policy information with the other party involved in the accident.
- Record all details. Get as many details about the accident and gather information from any witnesses if you are able to do so.
- Contact an attorney. Seek advice on next steps to take after the accident.
What Happens When You Don’t Report a Car Accident at Coachella Music Festival
After a severe Coachella accident, out-of-state drivers may avoid submitting a report due to uncertainty surrounding out-of-state car accident jurisdiction policies. While it might seem enticing to breeze past the protocol and return to the festival, the California Vehicle Code CVC 20001 states that any accident with injury or damages more than $1,000 must be reported immediately to avoid repercussions of a fine or potential jail time.
What is California’s Out-of-State Car Accident Jurisdiction Policy?
California’s out-of-state car accident jurisdiction policy, Code of Civil Procedure 410.0, grants California permission to “exercise jurisdiction on any basis” as long as it does not go against the Constitution. This permits out-of-state drivers to file an accident claim provided their insurance policy aligns with California law. Reaching out to a trustworthy law firm like Avrek Law is the best way to begin this process.
Find the Right Lawyer for Your Coachella Accident
A car accident in another state can be frightening, but you don’t have to endure it alone. With more than 50 years of combined experience representing cases in several states, Avrek Law has the expertise to handle any personal injury accidents in Coachella Valley. Get your free consultation today and get help from a top-notch law firm that has recovered $1 billion in more than 45,000 cases for their clients.
