What to Do After a Car Accident in Maryland
Knowing what to do after a car accident can protect your health, your rights, and your chance to get full compensation.
This is especially true in Maryland, where the law is less forgiving than in most other states.
Let’s explore your options from the moment the accident occurs.
The Steps That Can Make or Break Your Case
Here is what to do.
1. Call 911 and stay at the scene
This is always the first step.
If you leave before the police arrive, you could face criminal charges and it will almost always hurt any future claim.
The police report creates an official record of the accident, and you cannot recreate it later. Wait for the police to arrive.
2. Get medical attention right away
Even if you feel fine, see a doctor within 24 hours.
Many serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and internal bleeding, do not show clear symptoms right after the accident.
Getting checked by a doctor right away creates a record that insurance companies and courts will use.
If you wait too long, it becomes easier for the insurance company to claim your injuries happened somewhere else.
3. Document everything at the scene
Use your phone to take pictures of vehicle damage, skid marks, the intersection, any visible injuries, and where all vehicles are before they are moved.
Get the other driver’s name, license plate, insurance company, and policy number. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information too.
4. Don’t admit fault
Maryland uses a contributory negligence rule.
If you are found even one percent at fault, you might not be able to recover anything. Even saying “I’m sorry” at the scene can be used against you.
As we explain in our blog post on common accident mistakes, even a polite comment can hurt your case.
5. Be careful with the other driver’s insurance company
The other driver’s insurance adjuster is not there to help you.
Do not give a recorded statement, sign any papers, or accept a settlement offer before you talk to an attorney. The first offer is almost always much less than your case is worth.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
A strong car accident claim can cover much more than just vehicle repairs. Depending on your situation, you may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses, past, current, and future, including surgery, physical therapy, and medication
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity if your injuries affect your ability to work long-term
- Pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life
- Property damage, meaning the repair or full replacement of your vehicle
Why Malloy Law Offices Is the Right Call
A car accident can turn your life upside down. Medical bills add up, you might miss work, and the insurance company is already trying to pay you as little as possible.
This is when you need an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side.
At Malloy Law Offices, LLC, our team of trial lawyers has more than 15 years of experience helping accident victims in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We have recovered over $150 million for our clients.
We work on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.
FAQs
1. What to do after a car accident in Maryland?
Call 911, stay at the scene, get medical attention within 24 hours, document everything with photos, and collect the other driver’s insurance information. Contact an attorney before speaking with any insurance adjuster.
2. Should I accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company?
No. The first offer from the insurance company is almost always less than your case is worth. Insurance companies want to pay as little as possible, not make sure you are fully covered. Talk to an attorney before you sign anything.
3. How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Maryland?
In Maryland, you usually have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, starting sooner will make your case stronger.
4. Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?
In most cases with injuries, yes, you should get a lawyer. Maryland’s contributory negligence law makes it risky to handle a claim by yourself.
5. How can Malloy Law Offices help after a car accident?
Malloy Law Offices takes care of every part of your claim, from gathering evidence and dealing with insurance companies to going to court if needed. Contact us today for a free consultation.
In Summary
Knowing what to do after a car accident comes down to three things: protect your health, keep your evidence safe, and get legal help before you talk to any insurance company.
The attorneys at Malloy Law Offices, LLC are ready to fight for the full compensation you deserve.