Car accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, turning a routine drive into a life-altering event. From dealing with serious injuries to loss of income and medical bills, the days, weeks, and months following a car accident can be traumatic, stressful, and overwhelming.
If you find yourself in such a situation, through no fault of your own, it’s crucial to have a reliable and experienced Chillum car accident lawyer by your side.
Maryland Motor Vehicle Collision Statistics
According to preliminary data from the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), 563 people died on Maryland roadways in 2022. Highway deaths came as a result of 532 fatal crashes, including 135 pedestrians and 11 bicyclists. The total number of deaths is the same number recorded in 2021, with an increase in pedestrian and bicyclist fatalities.
This represents a 16% increase since 2019.
804 of these vehicle crashes happened in work zones, for an average of about three per day.
MDOT officials listed the following as the four most common causes of fatal crashes:
- Speeding/aggressive driving
- Impairment by alcohol and/or drugs
- Distracted driving
- Failure to use seat-belts/restraints
As of September 2023, Maryland is on pace to reach 600 fatalities on state roads this year, with the number of fatalities 6% higher than at the same point a year ago.
Steps To Take After a Car Crash
If you’re involved in a car accident, your first priority is the safety of everyone involved. Move to a safe location, if possible, check for injuries, and call 911 to report the accident and request emergency medical attention.
Once safe, your next steps should be to:
- Exchange information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other party involved in the accident. Collect names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance policy details, and license plate numbers.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any relevant road signs or signals. This visual evidence can be crucial when building your case.
- Get witness statements: If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information and, if they’re willing, a recorded statement. Witness accounts can provide invaluable support when determining fault.
- Seek non-emergency medical attention: Even if you don’t immediately feel injured, it’s still essential to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away, and having a medical record can be crucial for your case.
- Obtain a police report: Be sure to obtain a copy of the accident report. This official document can be valuable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
- Consult a car accident lawyer: Contact a reputable car accident lawyer in Chillum, MD, as soon as possible. Time is of the essence when it comes to gathering evidence and initiating legal proceedings as a statute of limitations applies in your auto accident case.
Why You Need a Chillum Attorney After an Auto Accident
Navigating the legal landscape after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with Maryland’s specific laws.
A Chillum car accident lawyer brings in-depth knowledge of state regulations and statutes and can help you understand both your rights and responsibilities. From determining fault to assessing damages, having a legal professional in your corner ensures you’re on solid ground.
Dealing with insurance companies can be another challenging and complex process.
Insurance adjusters may try to settle quickly, often offering less than what your case is worth. A skilled car accident lawyer knows how to negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, property damage, and other losses.
To build a successful case, you need strong evidence. A GDH Law attorney has the expertise to gather and analyze evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, and medical records. This meticulous approach strengthens your case and increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
It’s also important to consider that while many car accident cases are settled out of court, reaching a fair settlement requires negotiation skills. A seasoned car accident lawyer will advocate on your behalf, ensuring that any settlement offered reflects the true extent of your injuries and losses.
This negotiation expertise is invaluable in achieving the financial resolution you need without facing a lengthy court battle.
Get Legal Assistance Today
A car accident can have far-reaching consequences, affecting your physical well-being, financial stability, and overall quality of life.
In Chillum, having a skilled car accident attorney on your side is crucial for navigating the legal complexities and securing the compensation you deserve. By following the steps outlined above, you can empower yourself with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions after a car accident.
If you or someone you know has suffered injury or loss due to another driver’s negligence, our practiced car accident attorneys are ready, willing, and more than able to partner with you to get the justice, peace of mind, and compensation you deserve.
Contact our office today for a risk-free, no-cost consultation and let one of our experts explain your rights, guide you through the process, and fight for your best interests!
