request a consultation
Fill out our contact form and we’ll be in touch with you right away.
Holiday Travel Accidents: What to Do if You’re Injured Out of State
The holidays are a time for family visits, new and exciting experiences, and some much-needed time off. Whether you’re driving out to see relatives, flying up north for Christmas, or taking a road trip up I-75, travel is a normal part of the season for many Floridians. Unfortunately, more travel also means more risk, and holiday travel accidents happen far more often than people expect.
Every year, thousands of Florida residents are injured outside the state in car crashes, airport falls, rideshare incidents, hotel injuries, and rental car accidents. When it happens far from home, the stress that follows can feel overwhelming. Most people aren’t just worried about their injuries, they’re also confused about what comes next and who can actually help them.
Why Holiday Travel Leads to More Accidents
During major travel periods like the holidays, traffic volume spikes across the country. According to national safety data, Thanksgiving and Christmas consistently rank among the busiest and most dangerous travel times of the year. With packed highways, crowded airports, unfamiliar roads, winter weather, and some very tight schedules, holiday travel accidents become much more likely.
Fatigue also plays a role in this. Long drives, late-night flights, and rushed itineraries make it harder for drivers and travelers to stay alert. When you add distracted driving and impaired drivers into the mix, it’s easy to see why injuries rates can rise sharply during the holidays.
Common Types of Out-of-State Holiday Injuries
Florida residents are often involved in several types of accidents while traveling. Car crashes are especially common because of snow, ice, and unfamiliar traffic patterns. Rideshare accidents happen frequently in tourist-heavy cities where drivers may be rushed or distracted.
Airport injuries are another major issue. Crowded terminals, slick floors, luggage carts, and escalators all create even more risk. Rental car crashes are also common, especially when drivers aren’t used to the vehicle or the winter driving conditions. Hotel and Airbnb injuries round out the list, with falls caused by broken stairs, poor lighting, or unsafe flooring. All of these scenarios fall under the broader category of holiday travel accidents, but each one is handled a little bit differently under the law.
What to Do Right After You’re Injured Out of State
If you’re hurt while traveling, what you do next matters more than you might think. First, always call law enforcement in the state where the accident happened. A police or incident report becomes important evidence later on down the road.
Medical care should come next. Many injuries don’t feel serious right away, especially things like concussions, neck injuries, or internal trauma. Getting checked out protects your health and creates documentation that connects your injuries to the accident.
If you can, take photos of everything. That includes vehicle damage, road conditions, weather, rental car details, or hazardous property conditions. Evidence disappears quickly, especially in hotels and airports. Getting witness contact information also helps, since out-of-state claims often rely heavily on third-party statements.
Insurance Still Applies, But Be Cautious
Your Florida auto insurance follows you across state lines, even when holiday travel accidents happen elsewhere. PIP coverage still applies, and uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage often becomes extremely important when the at-fault driver has minimal insurance.
That said, insurance companies may still try to move fast. Adjusters sometimes push for early statements or quick settlements before you know the full extent of your injuries. This is where speaking with a Tampa car accident attorney can help you avoid any costly mistakes.
Which State’s Laws Apply to Your Case
In most situations, the lawsuit must be filed in the state where the accident happened. That applies to car crashes, hotel injuries, and slip and falls alike. Each state has its own rules for negligence, deadlines, and damages, which is why early guidance matters so much.
Even though another state’s laws may apply, a Florida-based lawyer can often still help coordinate your case, manage your Florida insurance benefits, and work with local counsel if needed. Many people are surprised to learn that a Tampa personal injury attorney, like Mickey Keenan P.A., can still play a major role in out-of-state claims.
When a Florida Attorney Can Take the Lead
A Florida attorney is often able to handle much of the case when you live in Florida, your insurance policies are based here, and your medical treatment happens at home. This is especially helpful when dealing with holiday travel accidents, since traveling back and forth to another state can be expensive and very stressful.
If you’re looking for a Tampa injury attorney, having someone local manage the process can make your recovery much easier. This also applies if your injuries involve motorcycles, where a motorcycle accident lawyer Tampa riders rely on can help coordinate care and claims.
Why Acting Quickly Is Even More Important Than Ever
Every state has its own statute of limitations, and some give you far less time than Florida. Delays can also lead to things like lost evidence, overwritten surveillance footage, and missing witnesses. Acting early protects your claim from every angle and helps ensure holiday travel accidents don’t turn into long-term financial losses.
You Don’t Have to Face an Out-of-State Injury Alone
Being injured far from home is stressful, confusing, and exhausting. But you still have rights, and you still have options. No matter where your accident happened, holiday travel accidents don’t have to leave you without the right support or direction.
If you were hurt while traveling this holiday season, contact Mickey Keenan, P.A. We’ll help you understand your options, protect your claim, and guide you every step of the way back home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How safe is driving in Florida?
Driving in Florida can be really challenging, especially during peak travel seasons and holidays. Heavy traffic, tourism, frequent construction, and distracted driving all contribute to higher accident rates. While many trips are completed safely, Florida consistently ranks high for crashes involving cars, pedestrians, and motorcycles. Staying alert, patient, and defensive behind the wheel can greatly improve overall safety.
Is driving in Florida easy?
Driving in Florida can feel easy for experienced drivers, but it often becomes stressful due to congestion, fast-moving highways, and unpredictable traffic patterns. Tourists, rental cars, and unfamiliar drivers add to the mix, especially near beaches, theme parks, and shopping areas. Taking your time, avoiding distractions, and planning routes ahead can make driving more manageable.
What is the safest state for driving?
The safest states for driving are typically those with lower population density, fewer tourists, and less traffic congestion. States like Maine, Vermont, and New Hampshire often rank well due to lower crash rates and quieter roadways. Florida’s large population, high tourism, and year-round driving conditions increase risk compared to smaller or less-traveled states.
How do you drive in Florida as a tourist?
Tourists driving in Florida should focus on patience and awareness. Follow posted speed limits, watch closely for pedestrians and cyclists, and expect sudden stops in busy areas. Give yourself extra time to reach destinations, especially during holidays. Using GPS carefully and avoiding distractions can help reduce stress and lower the risk of accidents.