If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a car accident in Maryland, remember that you are not alone. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates, are highly experienced car accident lawyers in Maryland, boasting over three decades of courtroom expertise. Whether your injuries resulted from the negligence of another driver or due to any automotive defect, our Maryland car accident lawyer is prepared to pursue compensation for you through the filing of a car accident claim.
The burdens of medical bills lost wages, and pain and suffering that often accompany a car crash should not rest solely on the victim. The car accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates are committed to fighting for fair compensation, alleviating you from the financial repercussions of someone else’s mistake behind the wheel. To explore the possibility of filing an auto accident claim, contact The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates for a complimentary legal consultation. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide the assistance you require.
Is it Necessary to Consult with a Lawyer After a Car Accident in Maryland?
It’s crucial to recognize that various studies indicate that individuals with legal representation receive three times more in net compensation than those without representation.
Seek Assistance and Avoid Going Alone
Unrepresented individuals often fall prey to insurance carriers that may propose a meager settlement initially. It’s important to consider that determining the extent of any permanent injuries may take time. Keep in mind that these are sizable for-profit corporations prioritizing the interests of their shareholders.
Urgency in Action
Upon receiving notice, the relevant insurance carrier(s) will promptly initiate an investigation into the claim. It is crucial that you secure adept and seasoned legal representation to promptly examine your claim, safeguard evidence, and interview witnesses while the details are still vivid.
Adding to the concern is the fact that numerous attorneys and law practices lack regular experience in litigating against insurance carriers. These insurance companies are well-informed about which legal entities possess the expertise and financial capabilities to hold them accountable for unjust settlement offers, and they keep meticulous records on firms that may settle claims while forfeiting potential compensation. Geico, State Farm, Allstate, USAA, Progressive, and other major players in the car insurance industry maintain comprehensive profiles on all law firms they engage with.
We place great importance on cultivating personal connections with our clients. Effectively representing an injury victim requires an understanding of their unique narrative, the impact of the injury on their quality of life, and the enduring physical limitations they now face. Without this knowledge, providing proper representation becomes challenging, if not impossible.
How to Find the Top Accident Lawyer in Maryland?
Finding the most suitable Maryland car accident lawyer can be challenging due to the multitude of options available. A search for “accident lawyers in Maryland” on Google yields millions of results. Sifting through thousands of law firms offering their services is not a viable option when dealing with an auto accident claim.
The positive aspect is that you can streamline your search by examining online reviews and focusing on the top results in Maryland. Typically, law firms featured on the first page of Google results form a manageable pool of potential choices.
Choosing the best lawyer for your claim involves considering your objectives. Do you prefer a lawyer aiming for a swift settlement without necessarily prioritizing your best interests? Alternatively, are you seeking a lawyer committed to fighting vigorously to secure the maximum compensation for your accident? Uncovering answers to these questions involves interviewing lawyers and understanding their approaches to handling your case.
How much does it cost to hire a Maryland car accident attorney?
Surprisingly, most individuals involved in car accidents discover that they do not need to pay any upfront fees to secure legal representation. The prevalent compensation model in such cases is the contingency fee system, wherein attorneys receive a percentage from the settlement or verdict of the auto accident claim.
Within the legal community, it is commonly accepted for lawyers to impose a 33% fee. However, clients are not required to cover the attorney’s costs directly. Instead, the lawyer’s fee is deducted from the compensation received from the other driver’s insurance company.
An added advantage for the client is that no fee is incurred unless there is a successful recovery in the case. This proves advantageous in situations where a case goes to trial, and if the judge or jury renders a zero verdict, meaning no award to the plaintiff, the client is not obligated to pay any fee to the lawyer.
Additionally, the attorney typically conducts a comprehensive investigation, incurring both substantial expenses and time. If, during this process, the lawyer determines that the claim lacks merit and opts not to pursue it, the client owes nothing to the attorney. To illustrate, if a claim settles for $100,000.00, the attorney would be entitled to a fee of 1/3 of 33%, amounting to $33,000. How Much Does a Car Accident Lawsuit Cost in Maryland?
At The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates, we provide complimentary initial consultations for personal injury cases to potential clients. Our fee is contingent on winning your case, so you won’t incur any legal costs if your case is unsuccessful. You are not obligated to meet with us to review your case, discuss potential compensation, or inquire about attorney’s fees.
How much does it cost to hire a Maryland car accident attorney?
Surprisingly, most individuals involved in car accidents discover that they do not need to pay any upfront fees to secure legal representation. The prevalent compensation model in such cases is the contingency fee system, wherein attorneys receive a percentage from the settlement or verdict of the auto accident claim.
Within the legal community, it is commonly accepted for lawyers to impose a 33% fee. However, clients are not required to cover the attorney’s costs directly. Instead, the lawyer’s fee is deducted from the compensation received from the other driver’s insurance company.
An added advantage for the client is that no fee is incurred unless there is a successful recovery in the case. This proves advantageous in situations where a case goes to trial, and if the judge or jury renders a zero verdict, meaning no award to the plaintiff, the client is not obligated to pay any fee to the lawyer.
Additionally, the attorney typically conducts a comprehensive investigation, incurring both substantial expenses and time. If, during this process, the lawyer determines that the claim lacks merit and opts not to pursue it, the client owes nothing to the attorney. To illustrate, if a claim settles for $100,000.00, the attorney would be entitled to a fee of 1/3 of 33%, amounting to $33,000. How Much Does a Car Accident Lawsuit Cost in Maryland?
At The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates, we provide complimentary initial consultations for personal injury cases to potential clients. Our fee is contingent on winning your case, so you won’t incur any legal costs if your case is unsuccessful. You are not obligated to meet with us to review your case, discuss potential compensation, or inquire about attorney’s fees.
Is It Necessary to Hire a Lawyer for My Car Crash?
Deciding to enlist the services of a lawyer following a car accident in Maryland is a crucial choice for ensuring a successful claim. By hiring a lawyer, you can alleviate the stress and complexities associated with dealing with insurance companies and navigating the legal process.
Considering the numerous tasks on your plate, such as doctor’s appointments, physical therapy, managing your vehicle, and arranging transportation during repairs or while awaiting compensation for a totaled vehicle, adding the burden of handling the insurance claim is not advisable. Unless you possess extensive experience with car accident claims, it is prudent to engage the services of a Maryland car accident lawyer to oversee all aspects of your case.
When you entrust your case to a car accident lawyer in Maryland with a decade-long track record of trust, you delegate all responsibilities to them. This allows you to concentrate on your recovery and resume your pre-accident life.
While some individuals attempt to handle everything independently, they often discover that they may inadvertently provide the insurance company with information that could compromise their claim or accept an inadequate settlement offer. A personal injury lawyer is well-versed in the appropriate compensation amounts that insurance companies should offer and can file a lawsuit if the insurer fails to provide fair compensation.
When to Seek Legal Representation After a Car Accident in Maryland
Don’t delay in enlisting the assistance of our Maryland car accident attorney. The sooner you consult with an attorney regarding your situation, the quicker you can initiate the process of pursuing financial compensation for your injuries. Securing the services of an experienced attorney promptly is often crucial for maximizing the potential settlement.
The strength of any personal injury claim hinges on the available evidence. Establishing negligence and demonstrating the severity of your injuries are essential components. Any delay may lead to the loss of valuable evidence. Furthermore, failing to seek immediate medical attention and document your treatment can make it challenging to prove that the accident directly caused your injury.
The immediate aftermath of a car accident, especially the first few days, is typically marked by confusion, medical appointments, and advice from friends and family. While prioritizing medical attention is paramount, reaching out to an attorney to assess the facts of your situation is equally important. Having the representation of a seasoned lawyer will provide clarity on your legal options and the potential value of your claim. In most instances, engaging the services of our Maryland car accident lawyers is advisable.
The prompt hiring of a lawyer after a car accident is crucial for several reasons. Immediately following an accident in Maryland, a complex process involving police, reporting agencies, repair shops, insurance adjusters, insurance companies, investigators, and lawyers is set in motion. In many cases, there is a driver deemed at fault, and there are one or more victims (especially in accidents involving more than two cars).
Typically, drivers contact their insurance company soon after an accident, initiating the claims process. The at-fault driver’s insurance company is often eager to reach the accident victim before they consult with a lawyer.
Insurance companies employ various tactics to limit their payouts for an accident, such as offering a low-ball bodily injury settlement check shortly after the incident, obtaining a recorded statement that can be used against the victim, delaying or ignoring the claim process in the hope that the victim will give up, or undervaluing the property damage claim.
By securing legal representation as soon as possible, you can avoid falling prey to the insurance company’s tricks and tactics aimed at minimizing compensation for injuries, lost wages, vehicle repair or replacement, and pain and suffering. Don’t postpone hiring a lawyer after an accident; consult with the car accident attorneys Maryland residents rely on.
Why Choose Our Maryland Car Accident Attorneys
Our legal team comprehends the profound impact that car accidents can have on individuals, along with the diverse challenges that may arise as a consequence. We are well-versed in ensuring that you receive the rightful compensation, having refined our services through successfully representing hundreds of clients in a variety of automobile accident cases.
Putting the interests of our clients first, our legal team is adept at dealing with insurance companies and navigating cases in Maryland civil courts to ensure the most favorable resolution for your case. We remain accessible to address all your inquiries, provide timely updates on your case’s status, and gather evidence to craft the most robust legal strategy on your behalf.
Avoid the misconception that all personal injury lawyers are alike. Many attorneys and law firms operate as mere volume-based entities, struggling to maintain client communication and establish personal connections with their extensive clientele.
In fact, a common grievance from clients who transitioned to our firm from large volume-focused practices is the lack of interaction or meetings with their lawyers. Choose legal representation that prioritizes your individual needs and fosters a genuine attorney-client relationship.
Diverse Types of Vehicle Collisions in Maryland
While car accidents are prevalent in Maryland, a variety of other vehicles may encounter accidents while navigating the state’s roads. Our legal team has successfully managed cases involving different types of vehicle collisions, such as:
1. Trucking accidents
2. Bus accidents
3. Motorcycle accidents
4. Boating accidents
5. Pedestrian accidents
6. Maryland train accidents
7. Delivery Amazon truck accidents
8. Uber, Lyft, and ride-sharing accidents
Car accident cases often involve complex legal issues and obstacles that must be navigated to optimize potential settlements or jury awards.
Diverse Types of Vehicle Collisions in Maryland
While car accidents are prevalent in Maryland, a variety of other vehicles may encounter accidents while navigating the state’s roads. Our legal team has successfully managed cases involving different types of vehicle collisions, such as:
1. Trucking accidents
2. Bus accidents
3. Motorcycle accidents
4. Boating accidents
5. Pedestrian accidents
6. Maryland train accidents
7. Delivery Amazon truck accidents
8. Uber, Lyft, and ride-sharing accidents
Car accident cases often involve complex legal issues and obstacles that must be navigated to optimize potential settlements or jury awards.
Severe and Prolonged Injuries
Accurately assessing your case requires a thorough understanding of the extent of your injuries. This evaluation goes beyond initial treatments, including triage at the scene, emergency room care, or surgical procedures. Medical costs also encompass the ongoing treatment and physical therapy necessary for a complete recovery. If a full recovery proves unattainable, you may be confronted with substantially higher expenses for long-term care.
Evaluating the Value of Your Maryland Car Accident Claim
The extent of your injuries in a car accident can lead to substantial medical expenses and a decline in income. At The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates, we collaborate with your healthcare provider and other medical experts to assess your medical costs. Our priority is identifying the optimal and essential medical interventions for your injuries, encompassing any potential future treatments or therapies.
Contrarily, insurance companies tend to prioritize cost-cutting measures without considering your well-being. Often, an injured individual may not comprehend the complete scope of their injuries or the required treatments when presented with an insurance settlement. Determining fairness in such cases becomes challenging without knowing your projected medical expenses.
Our office will diligently calculate your income losses due to the injury. This involves coordinating with your employer to account for every paycheck missed since the accident. For those with personal businesses or working as independent contractors, we will precisely determine the potential profits if the injury had not occurred.
Car accident claims are intricate matters, fraught with various legal complexities and challenges. To optimize your potential settlement or jury award, overcoming these legal obstacles is crucial.
Severe and Prolonged Injuries
In order to assess your case accurately, it is crucial to comprehend the gravity of your injuries. This not only involves your initial medical intervention, such as triage conducted at the incident site, emergency room care, or surgical procedures but also encompasses the ongoing treatment and physical therapy necessary for a complete recovery. In the unfortunate event that a full recovery is unattainable, the subsequent medical care can become significantly more costly.
Insurance companies employ tables and formulas to determine the value of your injury. Without a comprehensive understanding of the entirety of your injuries and the required medical interventions, especially those needed for future recovery, it becomes challenging to determine the adequacy of a settlement offer.
Engaging the services of a knowledgeable attorney right from the start ensures that you are aware of the true value of your claim. This enables you to make an informed decision about whether to accept a settlement offer or pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
Disputes Regarding Responsibility
Insurance companies do not operate with the intention of approving every filed claim without scrutiny. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, an insurance provider may assert that you are at fault for the incident.
In situations where there is a dispute over the events arising from conflicting witness accounts or variations in the interpretation of evidence, engaging a legal representative to investigate the accident’s cause can enhance the likelihood of securing a more substantial settlement or prevailing in a lawsuit.
The substantiation of liability is crucial. Depending on the specifics of your case, evidence may be derived from witnesses, physical evidence at the accident site, police reports, and potential surveillance footage. Our legal team is committed to gathering pertinent evidence to ascertain the sequence of events. In numerous instances, we undertake efforts to reconstruct the accident, aiming to demonstrate that your actions did not contribute to the incident.
Detailing the Valuation of Your Claim
As previously mentioned, engaging the services of an attorney serves a pivotal role in assessing the worth of your claim. If you have sustained a serious injury in a car accident, navigating the intricacies of calculating financial implications and documenting incurred expenses becomes a daunting task.
Our firm will meticulously record your medical costs, encompassing any future treatment expenses. Additionally, we will collaborate with your employer and financial specialists, if required, to evaluate your lost wages and gauge the long-term impact of your injury on your earning capacity.
Involvement of Multiple Parties
Certain car accident scenarios present heightened complexities. The involvement of multiple individuals in an accident adds layers of intricacy, making it more challenging to pinpoint fault, especially when responsibility could be attributed to more than one driver.
It is imperative to enlist the expertise of our seasoned Maryland car accident attorney to safeguard your rights, particularly in instances where other drivers may seek to establish your contribution to the accident.
Maryland Car Accident Data
The perilous behaviors of numerous drivers on Maryland’s roads pose a significant threat to motorists across the state. Each year, tens of thousands of individuals suffer injuries or lose their lives in car accidents, and many more experience vehicle damage or other property-related losses.
As per the latest crash data released by the Maryland Department of Transportation, there were 108,365 reported auto accidents in 2022, marking an increase from the 115,353 reported in the previous year. Unfortunately, 28,015 of these accidents resulted in injuries, and a total of 564 proved fatal.
In 2022, nearly 40,707 people were unnecessarily injured due to car accidents, and sadly, over 500 lost their lives. Among the reported accidents, Baltimore County recorded the highest number at 22,613, closely followed by Prince George’s County with 19,562 incidents.
Common Reasons for Car Accidents in Maryland
Despite the challenges posed by congested traffic, modern-day distractions, and prevalent aggressive driving in urban areas, it’s important to recognize that these factors do not excuse causing a car accident. If you find yourself a victim of a negligent driver, you have the entitlement to seek complete compensation for your injuries.
While driving conditions may differ from state to state, the primary causes of car accidents in Maryland closely mirror those reported nationwide. Throughout the country and specifically in Maryland, some of the major contributors to car crashes encompass:
1. Distracted driving, including texting, talking on the phone, and other distractions.
2. Impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.
3. Improper vehicle handling, often stemming from inexperience or fatigue.
4. Disregarding traffic signals, such as running red lights.
5. Inadequate use of signals for turning or changing lanes.
6. Ignoring designated lanes.
7. Disregarding stop signs.
8. Engaging in excessive speeding.
9. Reckless or aggressive driving behaviors.
In the event that you’ve experienced the consequences of another driver’s recklessness or negligence on the road, it is advisable to promptly seek assistance from a proficient car accident injury attorney in Maryland.
Frequent Injuries Resulting from Car Collisions in Maryland
When engaged in a car accident, your body contends with various opposing forces. The impact may thrust you against the steering wheel amidst shards of glass and debris scattered in the air. Due to the complexity of the factors involved, the spectrum of potential injuries appears boundless.
Your body’s cohesion relies on muscles, ligaments, and tendons, and harm to these areas constitutes a soft tissue injury—a common consequence of car accidents, even those at low speeds.
Whiplash stands out as a classic soft tissue injury, occurring when the neck or head undergoes sudden movement, potentially leading to damage in the surrounding tissues. The severity of this injury can range from mild discomfort to persistent back pain, depending on the forces at play.
In collisions, the vehicle’s interior becomes a chaotic environment, with glass, metal fragments, and various objects hurtling within. Personal belongings like phones or water bottles may also turn into projectiles, causing profound lacerations or extensive bruises upon impact.
Car accidents frequently result in head injuries, which can manifest as anything from a minor bump or concussion to enduring and irreversible brain damage. Often, the full extent of head or brain damage is not immediately apparent.
A grave category of injuries involves damage to the spinal cord, potentially leading to a lifetime of pain, temporary limb paralysis, or permanent loss of motor function. Such injuries, alongside traumatic brain damage, often necessitate extensive and costly medical care over an extended period.
What to Do Following a Car Accident in Maryland
In the event of a front-end collision in Maryland, it is crucial to prioritize your well-being. Immediately after the incident, do not hesitate to dial 911 to initiate the creation of a police report detailing the accident. Seeking prompt medical attention for yourself or anyone involved in the accident is equally essential.
Ensure the exchange of vital information with other drivers, including insurance details. If circumstances allow, take photographs of your vehicle, other involved vehicles, and the accident scene. Prioritize safety by avoiding potential dangers, such as oncoming traffic.
Once law enforcement is present, document all damages incurred. Post-accident, serious injuries may necessitate time off work. Managing matters with the other driver’s insurance companies, who may present settlement offers, is also part of the process. Before engaging with an insurance company, enlist the assistance of legal counsel experienced in securing maximum compensation for accident victims.
What Are Typical Injuries Resulting From Car Accidents in Maryland?
The inherent risks of operating a motor vehicle are often underestimated. While the daily routine may not prompt constant consideration of this reality, the truth remains that cars are substantial masses of metal, each weighing hundreds of pounds and hurtling at high speeds. They can easily spiral out of control, wreaking havoc on our roads. Some fortunate individuals may emerge from an accident with only minor cuts and bruises, but many are not as fortunate.
Car accidents can inflict serious injuries, creating enduring physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Even well after the accident concludes, individuals often grapple with the aftermath for extended periods. Among the prevalent injuries resulting from car accidents are fractures, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and whiplash.
Fractures, such as broken collarbones, wrists, legs, ribs, or noses, frequently occur in high-speed car accidents like head-on collisions or “T-bone” incidents.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs), encompassing concussions categorized as mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs), result from external blows to the skull rather than injuries stemming from disease or infection. TBIs may happen when the head collides with objects like the steering wheel or experiences violent shaking, potentially leading to life-threatening swelling.
Whiplash, a soft tissue neck injury, is a common occurrence in rear-end collisions. This condition, marked by severe neck pain, headaches, and disorientation, arises when the neck undergoes rapid and forceful stretching or rocking, straining structures like tendons and ligaments.
Many injuries sustained during an accident may not manifest immediately and could take days or even weeks to become apparent, particularly if they involve internal damage without immediate external symptoms.
Seeking prompt medical attention after a collision is crucial to rule out the possibility of severe injuries. Whether grappling with the mentioned conditions or any injury post-collision, consulting with an auto accident lawyer is advisable to explore legal options.
When faced with a Maryland car accident, the timing of hiring a lawyer is crucial. The longer you wait, the more you risk detrimental outcomes for your claim. Swiftly securing the services of an attorney ensures optimal preparation for settlement or trial.
Delaying legal representation can lead to costly pitfalls, including:
- Providing statements to the insurance company that may work against your interests.
- Admitting fault even if you weren’t responsible for the accident.
- Insurance coverage inadequacies for your sustained injuries.
- Inadequate settlement offers that fail to cover your medical expenses.
- Overlooking or missing documentation related to lost wages.
- The insurance company recognizes that an unrepresented individual is less likely to pursue a trial.
To mitigate these risks, it is advisable to engage the services of a trusted car accident lawyer in Maryland. The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates, with over a decade of experience, are the choice of many residents. Initiate a conversation with The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates promptly to enhance your chances of securing the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Initiating a Personal Injury Legal Action Following a Car Crash in Maryland
Initiating a personal injury lawsuit following a car accident in Maryland doesn’t preclude you from considering a settlement offer from an insurance company later on. However, accepting such an offer bars you from pursuing additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit, even if you’ve incurred additional medical expenses or experienced an inability to resume work.
The pursuit of a personal injury claim carries minimal financial risk. Our office does not impose any charges for taking on your case; our fees are derived from the insurance settlement or the jury award. Engaging our services to champion your rights after an auto accident comes at no cost to you, and our remuneration is contingent on your success.
With decades of experience advocating for individuals who have suffered through no fault of their own in auto accidents, our team of auto accident lawyers allows you to concentrate on recovery while we navigate dealings with your insurance company or prepare your case for trial.
While a settlement can’t alleviate your suffering or eradicate your pain, it is designed to restore financial equilibrium, affording you the means to lead your life and access necessary medical treatment and physical therapy for recovery. In instances where an injury results in a permanent disability, a settlement or award should adequately cover required care and compensate for lost income.
Our commitment extends beyond mere compensation for medical bills and lost wages; we strive to secure a monetary recovery for the pain, suffering, and inconvenience you endured due to someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions leading to the auto accident. When negotiating with your insurance company, we aim for a fair settlement that aligns with the extent of your injury and the suffering you’ve endured.
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How is liability determined in a collision involving multiple drivers?
Determining liability in an accident involving multiple drivers poses a significant challenge. It hinges on identifying the party responsible for the incident, often attributed to drivers who operate their vehicles negligently or recklessly. Those found at fault are liable for the consequences of the accident, and victims can seek compensation for their injuries and financial losses once evidence establishes the other party’s responsibility.
Maryland’s laws governing car accident compensation deviate from the norm in the U.S., employing the concept of “contributory negligence” instead of the “comparative negligence” laws prevalent in other states. In practical terms, this means that any driver deemed at fault for an accident is precluded from pursuing compensation in Maryland’s courts, irrespective of the degree of fault. Even a driver contributing as little as 1% to the accident cannot file a lawsuit against other involved parties. While this may seem harsh, it underscores the importance of seeking experienced legal counsel promptly after a car accident. In such critical situations involving your financial well-being, consulting a reputable attorney becomes the optimal course of action for self-protection.
The crux of most personal injury lawsuits arising from car accidents in Maryland is the establishment of liability. Proving negligence, a requisite under Maryland law, typically involves demonstrating that another driver’s negligent actions directly caused the accident. To succeed in a personal injury claim, our adept Maryland car accident attorney must meticulously present evidence supporting four specific elements of negligence.
Duty of Care
The initial component to establish is the existence of a duty of care. Demonstrating this duty involves establishing that the defendant had an obligation to behave in a specific manner concerning the plaintiff. The presence of a duty of care hinges on the nature of the relationship between the involved parties.
In cases related to car accidents, establishing a duty of care is usually straightforward, given that every driver is obligated to operate their vehicle safely in relation to all other individuals on the road.
This obligation entails that a motorist must avoid purposeful and reckless driving, adhering to all traffic rules and regulations. In essence, drivers should conduct themselves in a manner that prevents harm to others sharing the road.
Violation of the Duty of Care
After establishing a duty of care, our office must demonstrate that the defendant’s actions constituted a breach of that duty. A breach occurs when an individual behaves in a manner inconsistent with what a reasonable person would do in a similar situation.
Given that a driver holds a duty of care to all other motorists, any negligent behavior may be deemed a breach. Examples of common actions that violate a driver’s duty of care encompass speeding, texting while driving, reckless or aggressive driving, and operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Engaging in any of these behaviors could indicate the defendant’s negligence. Additionally, if the defendant has received a traffic citation, it can serve as additional evidence supporting the argument that they breached the duty of care.
Causation
While a driver may violate their duty of care, it does not necessarily result in liability for a personal injury unless their actions directly caused the accident. Proving causation can be relatively straightforward in certain cases. For example, if a drunk driver runs a red light and collides with a car that had the right of way, it is evident that the defendant’s negligent conduct led to the accident.
However, not all car accidents are as clear-cut, often involving discrepancies between the accounts of each driver, available evidence, and eyewitness testimonies. The complexity increases when more than two cars are involved, making it challenging to pinpoint the exact cause of the accident. Our office will diligently utilize the available evidence, consult with witnesses, and engage experts to establish a comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired.
Actual Harm or Injuries
Without experiencing any harm, regardless of the actions of the other driver, you lack the foundation for a personal injury lawsuit. Nonetheless, most individuals will endure some form of injury following an accident. Even collisions at low speeds could lead to back or neck injuries.
An often-used strategy by insurance companies is to cast doubt on the origin of an injury. This may involve asserting that the plaintiff had a pre-existing injury or that the injury occurred in a different incident. Delaying medical treatment can strengthen this argument in the eyes of a judge or jury. One crucial reason to promptly consult your doctor is to establish a clear connection between the accident and your injuries.
Establishing Damages in a Maryland Car Accident
Damages refer to the diverse expenses endured by individuals affected by a car accident, encompassing lost wages, medical bills, and the expenses incurred in repairing property damage. Property damage specifically pertains to the costs associated with repairing a vehicle or addressing harm to physical objects.
However, expenses related to injuries can be notably intricate, often involving emotional distress, lost wages, and medical bills. Emotional distress extends to the mental anguish stemming from the accident, along with the time lost in an individual’s personal life.
Our legal representation is adept at ensuring that you receive compensation for all these different damages, along with other costs incurred as a consequence of a car accident.
Maryland Car Accident Settlements
Similar to various personal injury claims, the majority of car accident injury cases in Maryland are resolved through out-of-court settlements. This implies that the involved parties come to an agreement without the need for a judicial decision. While the exact percentage may vary, it is estimated that around 90% of all car accident claims are settled rather than proceeding to trial.
When an insurance company offers a settlement, it indicates that the claim will not proceed to court, sparing the injured individuals from having to present their case before a judge. Nevertheless, should disputes arise regarding liability or damages, The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates is prepared to initiate legal action by filing a lawsuit against the negligent driver or other responsible parties.
In the event of a lawsuit following a car accident in Maryland, The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates will meticulously guide you through each stage of the legal process. We are committed to providing transparent and detailed communication, offering insights into potential strategies and obstacles. Our discussions will cover what to expect in court, how to prepare for hearings, the utilization of evidence, and other vital information essential for effectively pursuing your case.
What is the Deadline for Filing a Lawsuit After a Car Accident in Maryland?
It’s crucial to note that there is a limited timeframe for initiating a lawsuit following a car accident injury in Maryland. Referred to as the “statute of limitations,” this timeframe generally allows for filing a lawsuit within three (3) years from the date of the injury. Nonetheless, it is advisable to commence the process as promptly as possible due to several significant advantages:
- Eyewitnesses tend to have clearer and more accurate memories, and locating them is easier.
- The risk of vital evidence deteriorating is minimized.
- More time is available to construct a stronger and more comprehensive case on your behalf.
- In the event of a successful outcome, you will receive compensation sooner.
Maryland Car Accident Lawyers Advocating for Victims
The sense of overwhelm and isolation in a car accident can be profound, exacerbated by physical pain and significant financial strain. During these challenging times, seeking support from a reliable source can be transformative. The legal team at The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates, with extensive courtroom experience across the state, stands ready to apply their seasoned skills and unwavering commitment to your case.
While accidents themselves may be unintentional, the choice of a top Maryland car accident lawyer is within your control. If you are contemplating legal action following a Maryland car crash, it is crucial to carefully explore your options. Consult with a skilled Baltimore car accident lawyer to ensure a thorough examination of your case, aiming to recover every dollar owed for the damages you’ve endured.
The Law Offices of Krum, Gergely, & Oates have a track record of securing millions of dollars for clients facing formidable challenges. We are prepared to extend the same dedication to your case. Schedule a free and confidential consultation by calling us today.