Drivers From Other Countries And Securing Financial Relief

Maryland’s highways and local roads are busy with more than just commuters and commercial drivers. Tourists, international students, and temporary workers also share the roads, sometimes behind the wheel of rental cars or personal vehicles.

Being involved in a crash with someone from another country can add unique complications to your claim. Speak with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer if you were involved in an accident with an international driver.

Why International Drivers Can Complicate a Claim

Car and truck accidents in Maryland follow specific laws governing fault, insurance, and liability. These rules of accident recovery are well known, but when one of the drivers is an international visitor, the situation can become more complex for several reasons:

• Insurance coverage issues. International visitors may carry rental car insurance, travel insurance, or policies from their home country. Determining what coverage applies, and whether it meets Maryland’s requirements, can be difficult.
• Difficulty establishing communication. Visitors may return to their home country before the claim is resolved, making it harder to contact them for statements or court appearances.
• Legal responsibility. Not all foreign policies provide coverage for accidents in the U.S. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may need to rely on your own coverage or explore legal avenues to pursue compensation.
• Jurisdictional challenges. If a lawsuit is necessary, issues can arise with serving papers and enforcing judgments against someone who lives outside the United States.

These factors can make what might appear to be a straightforward accident into a legally complex case.

You Still Have the Right to Pursue Compensation

Even when the other driver is from another country, you can move to secure a settlement for your injuries and losses. To strengthen your case, take photos of the accident scene, get witness contact information, and request a copy of the police report. Documentation becomes even more important if the other driver leaves the U.S. quickly.

It is also key that you understand your insurance options. Maryland drivers may have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage which can help when the at-fault driver does not have adequate insurance. There could be rental car insurance coverage options to assess, too. Your attorney can review all of the policies involved and explain how they apply.

A Baltimore personal injury lawyer can handle communications with international insurers, rental car companies, and other parties. They can also take legal steps to ensure your claim is not dismissed simply because the at-fault driver is difficult to reach.

Beyond vehicle repairs, you may be entitled to medical costs, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering. A lawyer will ensure that all damages are pursued, not just the most obvious ones.

Have you been experiencing recovery complications as you move to access funds for accident-related expenses following a crash with an international driver? Talk to the attorneys at Iamele & Iamele, LLP. Insurance coverage may be unclear, and communication may be difficult if a visitor has returned home. Despite these challenges, you still have rights. To book a confidential consultation, contact us.