Life doesn’t always wait for a legal claim to wrap up. Maybe you’re relocating for a new job, to be closer to family, or for financial reasons. Whatever the case, many accident victims ask the same question: What happens to my Florida personal injury case if I move out of state before it’s resolved?
The good news? In most situations, moving will not stop your case or prevent you from receiving compensation. But leaving Florida mid-claim can introduce new challenges, especially involving medical treatment, communication, and court requirements. Here’s what you need to know.
Your Case Stays in Florida, Even If You Don’t
If your accident happened in Florida, your case will remain governed by Florida law. This includes:
- Florida courts and judges
- Florida statutes of limitations
- Florida insurance rules, including no-fault and PIP requirements
- Florida evidentiary standards
You won’t be able to transfer your case to another state just because you moved. This is because jurisdiction is determined by where the accident and injuries occurred, not where you currently live.
You Can Still Keep Your Florida Attorney
Relocation does not force you to change lawyers. Your Florida personal injury attorney can continue representing you from the moment you move until your case is closed. In today’s world of electronic signatures, video calls, and digital case management, working remotely with your lawyer is easier than ever.
If a lawsuit is filed and you are required to appear for a hearing or deposition, your attorney can often arrange:
- Remote video depositions
- Virtual hearings (when permitted)
- Medical testimony and documentation submissions
In rare instances where your physical presence is required, your lawyer will advise you well in advance so you can plan travel accordingly.
Continuing Medical Treatment After You Move
One of the biggest challenges after an out-of-state move is ensuring uninterrupted medical care. Consistent treatment is essential both for your recovery and for proving your case.
Notify your attorney before you move so they can:
- Help connect you with new providers in your new state
- Ensure your new doctors understand the importance of detailed record-keeping
- Obtain medical releases, billing statements, and updated prognosis reports
Gaps in treatment can be used by insurance companies to argue your injuries aren’t serious, so maintaining continuous care is crucial.
How Moving May Affect Your Claim’s Timeline
Relocating may cause minor delays in your case, especially if:
- New medical providers need time to evaluate you
- Records take longer to transfer
- Your new treatment plan affects the settlement value
Still, most cases continue moving forward smoothly with proactive communication between you and your legal team.
Will Moving Reduce Your Settlement Value?
Typically, moving will not reduce the value of your claim. Your settlement is based on:
- Your injuries
- Your medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term prognosis
- Liability and insurance coverage
However, insurance companies may try to use relocation to question your injuries or argue that your move causes unnecessary delays. A strong attorney can shut those arguments down by ensuring proper documentation and a clear treatment timeline.
You Must Keep Your Attorney Updated
If you leave Florida during an active claim, make sure to update your lawyer with:
- Your new address
- Your new phone number
- Your new medical providers
- Any changes in employment
- Any travel limitations
These details help your lawyer stay organized and avoid missed deadlines or communication issues with insurers.
Thinking of Moving? Consult a Florida Injury Attorney First
Relocating mid-claim does not have to jeopardize your personal injury case. With the right legal guidance, consistent medical care, and organized documentation, you can continue pursuing full compensation no matter where you live.
If you’re planning a move or have already relocated, our Florida personal injury team is here to help you navigate the process and protect your rights every step of the way.
Contact a Florida Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have been involved in a personal injury incident, seeking legal advice is essential to protect your rights. Our legal team has more than 40 years of experience seeking justice for accident victims. Our attorneys have sought and won millions of dollars for our injured clients.
Call 850-601-1111 to schedule a complimentary consultation with no obligations. This consultation will help you explore your legal options. Let us help you fight for fair compensation.
Chris received his Juris Doctorate from Florida State University College of Law in 2008, and he was admitted to the Florida Bar in December of 2008 followed by the State Bar of Texas in May of 2009. He has litigated, mediated, and resolved over five hundred first-party storm damage claims, and he has litigated, mediated, and successfully resolved multiple major construction defect claims with recoveries in excess of $1,800,000.00.
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