Upper Marlboro Car Accident Lawyers
Dedicated Representation for Your Auto Collision Claim
In an instant, a car accident can change your life. The severe physical injuries, the financial impact, and the lasting emotional trauma can leave you feeling overwhelmed, frightened, and lost. With the help of the Farmer & Klopfer, you don't have to worry — we’ll handle the legal processes of your case so you can heal.
The Upper Marlboro car accident lawyers of our firm can help you recover from the effects of a collision. Contact us today to discuss the details of your case.
On This Page:
- Causes of Car Accidents
- Who is Liable for Car Accidents?
- Maryland is an At-Fault State
- When Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
- Hit and Run Accidents and Uninsured Motorist Claims
- Frequently Asked Questions
To schedule a free consultation with our legal team, complete our contact form or call (301) 265-2220.
Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents can result from even a second of negligence by another driver. Glancing at a phone, making a wrong turn, or driving through a red light have been the causes of very serious, and even deadly, collisions.
Some of the most common causes of car accidents include:
- Reckless driving and disobeying traffic laws
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Vehicle malfunctions
- Road conditions
- Inclement weather
Who is Liable for Car Accidents?
One driver (or more, in some cases) is commonly the liable party in cases of car accidents.
Third parties can be liable for car accident damages too. This is more common in instances when a collision is caused by external factors that are out of the control of the drivers involved.
Depending on the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim with your insurance company to recover compensation if an accident was caused by the negligence of a third party.
If your insurance provider does not cover your situation, or if another driver is at fault and their insurance company is not covering your claim, you may need to pursue your damages in court through a personal injury lawsuit.
Maryland is an At-Fault State
Maryland is a fault-based car accident state, meaning that negligent drivers are held accountable if they are found to be liable for a collision. Car accident injury victims must file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company to recover compensation for damages following a collision in the state of Maryland. Conversely, drivers in no-fault states can rely on their insurance companies to provide coverage for damages in the event of a car accident.
When Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a car accident lawyer if you have been involved in a car accident that resulted in significant property damage, bodily injury, or death. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process of filing a claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and potentially pursuing legal action against the responsible party.
Here are some specific instances where you may want to consider hiring a car accident lawyer:
- Serious injuries: If you have suffered significant injuries as a result of the accident, you may want to consult with a lawyer. They can help you understand your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Liability disputes: If there is a dispute over who is at fault for the accident, you may need a lawyer to help you gather evidence and build a case to prove liability.
- Insurance company disputes: If you are having difficulty obtaining fair compensation from the insurance company, a lawyer can help you negotiate a settlement or file a lawsuit if necessary.
- Complex legal issues: If the legal issues surrounding your case are particularly complex, such as if multiple parties were involved or there are questions about insurance coverage, you may want to consult with a lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected.
In general, if you are unsure about whether you need a car accident lawyer, it is always a good idea to schedule a consultation with one. They can provide you with personalized advice and help you understand your legal options.
To schedule a free consultation with our legal team, complete our contact form or call (301) 265-2220.
Hit and Run Accidents and Uninsured Motorist Claims
Situations that can potentially complicate a car accident case are if a hit-and-run driver or uninsured motorist was involved in your collision. All drivers in the state of Maryland are required by law to have car insurance, and it is illegal to commit a hit-and-run in all states. Unfortunately, however, not all drivers adhere to these laws.
We understand that being the victim of a hit-and-run accident or an uninsured motorist collision can leave you feeling confused and frightened. Although the other driver has left you without a direct method of recovering compensation, you do have options. One option, uninsured motorist coverage, may already be included in your insurance policy. Contact our Upper Marlboro car accident lawyers for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a car accident in Upper Marlboro, MD?
After a car accident, prioritize safety by moving to a secure area and checking for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and document the scene by taking pictures of the vehicles, damage, and surrounding area. If there are witnesses, obtain their contact details. It's also crucial to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as injuries may surface later. Lastly, notify your insurance company and consider consulting a local car accident attorney for legal guidance.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Maryland?
In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is three years from the date of the accident. This means you must initiate legal action within this time frame to seek compensation for injuries, property damage, or other losses. If the claim involves wrongful death resulting from a car accident, the family has three years from the date of the victim’s death to file a claim. Failing to file within the deadline may result in losing the right to pursue compensation.
What types of compensation can I recover from a car accident claim?
Victims of car accidents in Upper Marlboro, MD, may be eligible for various types of compensation. This includes economic damages such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and property damage. You may also pursue non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases where the at-fault driver acted with gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
How does Maryland’s contributory negligence law affect my claim?
Maryland is one of the few states that follows the contributory negligence doctrine. Under this rule, if you are found to have contributed to the accident in any way, even slightly, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. This makes it critical to demonstrate that the other party was entirely at fault. Insurance companies often use this law to dispute claims, so having a knowledgeable car accident attorney who can refute claims of contributory negligence can be vital in protecting your rights.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or does not have enough coverage to pay for your losses, you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Maryland law requires all auto insurance policies to include UM/UIM coverage, which protects drivers in situations where the other party cannot cover the damages. This coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
How do I prove fault in a car accident case?
Proving fault in a car accident case requires strong evidence that demonstrates the other driver’s negligence. This evidence may include police reports, eyewitness statements, traffic camera footage, photographs from the scene, and medical records. In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be used to analyze the collision and determine liability. Since Maryland’s strict contributory negligence law can prevent recovery if you’re found partially at fault, it’s essential to gather comprehensive evidence to support your claim.
Should I speak to the other driver’s insurance company?
It’s generally advisable to avoid speaking with the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney. Insurance adjusters may attempt to obtain statements that can be used to undermine your claim or reduce the compensation you deserve. If you must speak with them, stick to the basic facts and avoid admitting fault or speculating about the accident. An attorney can handle communications with the insurance company and ensure your rights are protected.
How can a car accident lawyer help with my claim?
A car accident lawyer can provide crucial assistance throughout the claims process. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for maximum compensation. An attorney can also handle complex legal issues, such as defending against claims of contributory negligence and pursuing litigation if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Having an experienced lawyer on your side can significantly improve your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us to Schedule a Free Consultation
At our legal team is dedicated to helping injury victims recover the compensation they deserve. We are prepared to apply our legal knowledge and trial acumen to your collision case. Whether you are taking on a dishonest insurance company or a negligent driver, we can help.
Send us a message or call (301) 265-2220 to schedule a free consultation with our car accident attorneys in Upper Marlboro.
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