How To Protect Your Rights To Compensation When A Maryland Car Accident Happens
Car accidents in Maryland can happen in a split second, leaving you shaken and unsure of what to do afterward. Hundreds of thousands of crashes get reported each year throughout the state, often caused by reckless driving.
Knowing what to do after a crash helps protect your personal safety and your rights to compensation. To make the maximum recovery, our Maryland car accident attorneys offer tips for at the crash site and in the weeks after.
Take These Steps To Protect Yourself If Involved In A Car Accident in Maryland
Car accidents in Maryland pose serious risks. The state Highway Safety Office reports over 100,000 crashes happen yearly. Reckless behavior on the part of other motorists, such as speeding, running red lights, distracted driving, and impaired driving, is often to blame.
Being involved in a crash can leave you in a state of shock. Knowing how to handle the situation in advance helps protect your safety and your rights at the scene. Our Maryland car accident attorneys recommend taking these steps:
- Make safety your top priority. If possible, move your vehicle off the road and call 911 for medical assistance.
- Notify the police, who will document the accident and how it happened.
- Get the other driver’s name, driver’s license number, and their insurance information, along with names and phone numbers for witnesses.
- Gather evidence. Take photos or videos documenting the scene and your damages.
- Get medical attention. Potentially life-threatening injuries often have subtle symptoms. To protect yourself and your rights to compensation, seek immediate medical care.
Protect Your Right to Compensation After a Maryland Car Accident
The days after a car accident may seem like a blur. Between your injuries and the damages to your vehicle, you may wonder how you will ever recover. Fortunately, compensation is available.
Under the Maryland Statutes, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses if a crash occurred due to the reckless behavior of other motorists. However, if insurers can prove you were even partially at fault, they will deny your claim. To protect your rights, follow these tips:
- Avoid admitting any liability for the crash or your injuries;
- Get professional legal help before making any statements to insurers or accepting an immediate settlement, which is likely far less than you deserve;
- Keep detailed records, including all medical bills, wage statements showing lost earnings, and correspondence with insurers;
- Continue following all your doctor’s instructions, undergoing any recommended testing and treatment, and return to work when cleared by medical providers;
- Avoid discussing your case or posting about it on social media, which is the first place insurers look when conducting accident investigations.
For Experienced Legal Representation, Contact Our Maryland Car Accident Attorneys
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident in Maryland can be overwhelming. Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP can guide you through complex claims processes and help you make the maximum recovery. For caring support and experienced legal representation, contact our office. Schedule a consultation today with our Maryland car accident attorneys.
Sources:
zerodeathsmd.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/MDOT_Annual_Report_2023_508.pdf
mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gcj§ion=11-109&enactments=false