Proving Fault When A Maryland Car Accident Happens
Car accidents in Maryland are common and have the potential to cause catastrophic personal injuries to drivers and passengers. Even a relatively minor crash could impact your health and finances for years after. However, you only have one chance to get compensation. To get the maximum amount you are entitled to, get our Maryland car accident attorneys on your side. We explain the importance of gathering evidence proving the other driver was at fault, and the types often required when filing a claim.
When Other Drivers Are Responsible For Car Accident Injuries In Maryland
As a leading cause of death and disability throughout the state, car accidents in Maryland can cause devastating amounts of harm. Zero Deaths Maryland reports an average of more than 30,000 car accidents happen each year. Reckless and negligent behavior on the part of other drivers is to blame.
This means they either took dangerous actions that put you at risk or failed to take the appropriate precautions. Examples of negligence in Maryland car accident claims include:
- Running red lights and stop signs;
- Driving under the influence;
- Tailgating and improper passing;
- Speeding or going too fast for road, weather, and traffic conditions;
- Distracted driving, such as texting behind the wheel.
When you or someone you love suffers serious car accident injuries as a result, you have the right to hold the at-fault driver liable for your losses. However, unlike in some other places, our state follows the rule of contributory negligence. This means that, under the Maryland Statutes, you may be denied compensation if you were even partially to blame for a crash.
Evidence That Can Help You Get Compensation For Maryland Car Accident Injuries
Maryland’s stand on contributory negligence makes it vital to gather evidence when a car accident happens. Not doing so could leave you paying out-of-pocket for the costs involved, even if the other driver is to blame. Common types of evidence used in support of your case include:
- Police accident reports, completed at the scene;
- Testimony from any other drivers or witnesses who saw what happened;
- Footage from nearby video surveillance cameras, common in stores, parking lots, and intersections;
- Photos and videos you took of the accident site, your vehicle, and your injuries;
- Statements, social media posts, or other comments the at-fault driver made, admitting liability;
- Testimony from accident reconstruction witnesses detailing the types of impact and likely ways it occurred;
- Medical records and statements from your doctor explaining how your injuries likely happened;
- Toxicology reports showing the driver was impaired at the time.
Contact Our Maryland Car Accident Attorneys And Request A Consultation
Car accidents in Maryland can cause you or those you love devastating injuries. When they happen due to the negligent behavior of others, you have the right to hold them liable. Gathering evidence plays a vital role in filing a claim.
At Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP, we help you get the maximum compensation you are entitled to. Contact our Maryland car accident attorneys and request a consultation today.
Sources:
zerodeathsmd.gov/resources/crashdata/
msa.maryland.gov/megafile/msa/speccol/sc5300/sc5339/000113/004000/004611/unrestricted/20071522e.pdf
