There’s nothing quite like the freedom of a road trip — cruising down scenic highways, exploring new places, and making memories along the way. But accidents can happen anywhere, and being far from home only adds to the stress. If you’re involved in a car accident while traveling out of state, knowing how to handle the claims process is essential.

Out-of-state claims can be confusing because each state has its own traffic laws and insurance rules. Fortunately, your auto policy generally travels with you. In this post, we’ll explain what to do after an out-of-state accident, how your insurance works, and what steps to take to protect yourself and your rights.

Do Insurance Policies Cover You Out of State?

One of the biggest questions people have after a road trip accident is whether their insurance still applies. The good news: your auto insurance policy follows you wherever you drive within the United States.

This means your liability, collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, and medical coverage generally work the same way whether you’re at home or across the country.

What does change, however, is how your policy interacts with local laws. For example:

• Some states have no-fault insurance, meaning your own policy pays for medical expenses regardless of fault.

• Minimum liability requirements vary by state. If the state where your accident occurred has higher minimums than your home state, your insurer may automatically adjust your coverage to meet those limits.

If you’re traveling to another state, it’s wise to review your policy beforehand and ensure you have adequate coverage.

What Happens If the Other Driver Is Uninsured?

When the at-fault driver has no insurance, you cannot file a claim with their insurer. Instead, your own UM coverage steps in to cover your damages, up to the limits you selected when you bought your policy.

If you don’t have UM coverage, you may be forced to pay out of pocket or try to sue the driver personally — which is often impractical, as many uninsured drivers have limited assets.

With UM/UIM coverage in place, however, you can avoid this situation and still get your medical bills, lost wages, and property damage covered (depending on your state and policy).

How to File a UM/UIM Claim

Filing a UM/UIM claim is similar to a standard claim, but there are a few extra steps. Here’s what to do:

• Call 911 if anyone is injured. Report the accident and request medical help if needed. A police report is especially important in uninsured driver situations.
• Exchange information. Even though the other driver is uninsured, get their name, contact info, and license plate number.
• Document everything. Take photos of the accident scene, damage to both vehicles, and any injuries. Gather witness statements if possible.
• Seek medical attention. Don’t delay getting treated — your medical records will be important for your claim.
• Notify your insurer right away. Let them know you were hit by an uninsured driver and that you want to file a UM/UIM claim. Provide all the information you’ve gathered.
• Cooperate with your adjuster. Answer questions, submit documentation, and keep track of your expenses.

What’s Covered by UM/UIM?

Coverage varies by state and by policy, but generally, UM/UIM can pay for:

• Medical expenses for you and your passengers.

• Lost wages if your injuries keep you from working.

• Pain and suffering in some states.

• Property damage, if your policy includes UM property damage coverage (note: some states exclude this).

Before an accident ever happens, review your policy to understand your UM/UIM limits and what’s included. Higher limits offer more protection and peace of mind.

What If the Other Driver Is Underinsured?

If the at-fault driver does have insurance, but their liability limits are too low to cover your damages, your UIM coverage can make up the difference, up to your policy limits.

For example:

• The other driver’s liability coverage: $25,000.

• Your total medical expenses: $50,000.

• Your UIM coverage: up to $50,000.

In this case, the at-fault driver’s insurer would pay $25,000, and your UIM would cover the remaining $25,000.

Tips for a Smooth UM/UIM Claim

• Know your coverage. Check your policy now to see if you have UM/UIM and what your limits are.
• File promptly. Report the accident and start your claim as soon as possible to avoid delays.
• Keep detailed records. Save receipts, medical bills, repair estimates, and documentation of missed work.
• Don’t settle too quickly. Make sure all your damages and medical needs are accounted for before agreeing to a settlement.
• Consider legal help. In some cases, especially if you have serious injuries or your claim is denied, an attorney may be able to assist you.

Why UM/UIM Coverage Matters

You can’t control what other drivers do — but you can protect yourself. UM/UIM coverage ensures that you won’t be left paying out of pocket for someone else’s mistake.

If you don’t already have it, talk to your insurance agent about adding or increasing your UM/UIM limits. It’s usually an affordable way to add a significant layer of protection.

When You’ve Been Hit by an Uninsured or Underinsured Driver

Accidents involving uninsured or underinsured drivers can be frustrating, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Auto Claim Solutions, we help clients every day who find themselves in this situation.

We’ll explain how your policy applies, guide you through the UM/UIM claims process, and work with your insurer to help ensure your claim is handled fairly and efficiently.

The Bottom Line

Getting hit by a driver who doesn’t have enough (or any) insurance can leave you feeling angry, stressed, and unsure what to do next. But with the right knowledge — and the right team on your side — you can still recover what you’re entitled to and move forward.

If you’ve been involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver and aren’t sure how to proceed, Auto Claim Solutions is here to help.

Contact us today to discuss your situation. We’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and support you every step of the way as you file your claim.

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