As one of the largest metropolitan areas in the I-95 corridor, Philadelphia experiences significant vehicle traffic from other states. This unfortunately means that traffic accidents in this area often involve out-of-state drivers, some of whom inflict severe injuries to motorcyclists who did nothing to cause the crash.
If you were recently injured while riding because a driver from another state acted irresponsibly, you should contact a motorcycle injury lawyer from Lowenthal & Abrams as soon as possible. Claims involving Philadelphia out-of-state motorcycle accidents can appear straightforward at first and later prove unexpectedly complex. Guidance from a seasoned attorney can be crucial to enforcing your rights and avoiding legal or procedural challenges.
Holding an Out-of-State Driver Liable for a Motorcycle Crash
Jurisdiction over legal proceedings is one aspect of Philadelphia motorcycle wrecks involving out-of-state drivers that may be simpler than expected. Regardless of the state of residence of the parties involved in a traffic accident, the state where the crash occurs has legal authority to handle both civil and criminal matters arising from it. Therefore, if your wreck happens in Pennsylvania, you must file a civil suit in a local court.
However, out-of-state drivers who are at fault for causing motorcycle crashes are not always required to remain in the state where the wreck occurred until related legal proceedings conclude, which can complicate the process of seeking civil restitution. Non-residents may also have insurance policies that are not set up for no-fault systems, such as the one followed by Pennsylvania courts, which is something a qualified legal professional can help you address during settlement negotiations.
What If You Get in a Motorcycle Crash as an Out-of-State Rider?
If you are from outside the state yourself and are involved in a motorcycle accident while riding through Philadelphia, the rules mentioned above also apply to you. You would need to seek civil restitution in Pennsylvania rather than in your home state. If you need to return home while your case is being heard, a lawyer from Lowenthal & Abrams may be able to appear in court on your behalf and handle most of the procedural requirements for your claim without you needing to be physically present.
When it comes to insurance coverage as an out-of-state driver, Pennsylvania law requires your insurance company to adjust your policy to meet the mandated coverage minimums while you are riding in this state. This rule applies whether those minimums are higher or lower than what you would have in your home state. A lawyer can offer more guidance on this matter as they help you with your motorcycle injury claim.
Call a Philadelphia Attorney To Discuss Out-of-State Motorcycle Crash Claims
Usually, lawsuits and settlement demands over Philadelphia out-of-state motorcycle accidents work in the same way as those that only involve people whose primary residences are in Pennsylvania. However, there are also unique elements to cases of this nature that can be difficult to manage on your own.
A motorcycle injury attorney from Lowenthal & Abrams can provide the legal representation you need to obtain the compensation you deserve, no matter where you reside. Call today for a consultation.