Car accidents are a common occurrence in Baltimore, Maryland, and can happen to anyone, regardless of how cautious they may be on the road. These incidents can cause severe damage, injuries, and even death, leaving victims and their families in emotional and financial distress.
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If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, it’s essential to know what to do after a car accident in Baltimore, Maryland, to protect yourself and your rights. In this article, we will cover the steps to take after a car accident and answer some of the most common questions people have following a vehicle accident in Maryland.
Steps To Do After A Car Accident in Baltimore, Maryland
1. Check for Injuries
The first step after a car accident in Baltimore, Maryland, is to check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, it’s best to get checked out by a medical professional to ensure that there are no underlying injuries.
2. Call the Police
After checking for injuries, the next step is to call the police. In Baltimore, the police must be notified if the accident results in injury, death, or property damage of over $500. A police officer will come to the scene, assess the situation, and create a report.
3. Exchange Information
Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. This includes contact information, insurance information, and vehicle information. You should also collect the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all the details of the accident, including the police report, photos, and any witness statements you have collected.
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Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and let you know what documentation they need from you. Be sure to cooperate fully with your insurance company to ensure that your claim is processed promptly.
5. Seek Legal Advice
If you have suffered injuries or significant property damage, you may want to consider speaking with a car accident lawyer to understand your legal options and protect your rights. A lawyer can help you negotiate with insurance companies and pursue a claim for damages.
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Common Questions People Have Following a Vehicle Accident in Maryland
1. What should I do if the accident wasn’t my fault?
If the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be able to pursue a claim against their insurance company to recover damages. It is essential to collect as much evidence as possible to support your claim, including witness statements and photos of the accident scene.
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Contact your insurance company to report the accident and let them know that the other driver was at fault. Your insurance company will handle the claim and may pursue the other driver’s insurance company for reimbursement.
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If the other driver’s insurance company denies your claim or offers an insufficient settlement, you may need to seek legal advice from a car accident lawyer.
2. If nobody was wounded and no property was damaged, do I still need to file an accident report?
In Baltimore, if the accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage of over $500, you must file an accident report with the police. Even if there was no visible damage, it’s still a good idea to document the accident in case issues arise later.
3. Is it worth it to pursue a claim for the minimal damage I’ve sustained?
Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, even if the damage sustained is minimal. Minor accidents can still cause injuries, damage to vehicles, and emotional distress. One of the most common questions people have after a car accident is whether it’s worth pursuing a claim for the minimal damage sustained. In Maryland, the answer is yes. Maryland law allows you to pursue a claim for any damages, regardless of the extent of the damage sustained.
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Even if the damage sustained is minimal, pursuing a claim can help cover the repair costs of your vehicle, especially if the cost of repairs is more than your deductible. Additionally, if you sustain any injuries in the accident, seeking medical attention and filing a claim can help cover medical expenses.
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However, it’s essential to remember that you should only pursue a claim if you have sustained damages. Filing a claim for damages that you did not sustain is insurance fraud, and you can face severe legal consequences.
4. How can I get my hands on a report form after an accident?
If you’ve been in a car accident, obtaining a copy of the accident report form is crucial. This report contains essential information, such as the time and location of the accident, the names of the drivers involved, and the details of any witnesses. This information can be helpful when filing a claim with your insurance company or when pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
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To obtain a copy of the accident report form, you can contact the Maryland State Police or the local police department that responded to the accident. You may have to pay a fee for the report, but it’s worth it to have this vital document.
5. In what timeframe can I expect my insurance claim to be settled?
The timeframe for settling an insurance claim can vary depending on the severity of the accident and the complexity of the case. In Maryland, insurance companies have 30 days to acknowledge a claim and 60 days to investigate and make a settlement offer. However, if there are any disputes or challenges to the claim, the process may take longer.
6. What should I do if the other driver’s insurance company is giving me a hard time following a vehicle accident in Maryland?
If the other driver’s insurance company is giving you a hard time, you may want to consider consulting with an attorney. A Maryland car accident lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. They can also help you gather evidence to support your claim and determine the appropriate amount of compensation for your injuries and damages.
7. In the event of a car crash, how long do you have to file a lawsuit in Maryland?
In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is three years from the date of the accident. It’s essential to file a lawsuit within this timeframe; otherwise, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
It’s essential to remember that the statute of limitations only applies to personal injury lawsuits. If you’re only pursuing a claim for vehicle damage, there is no statute of limitations. However, it’s still essential to file a claim as soon as possible to ensure that the evidence is still fresh and the witnesses’ memories are still clear.
8. In the wake of a vehicular mishap in Maryland, should you accept compensation from your insurance company?
The answer is that it depends on the circumstances of your case. If the compensation offered by your insurance company is sufficient to cover your losses, accepting it may be in your best interest. However, it’s crucial to consider whether the amount offered is enough to cover all your expenses.
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If the other driver’s insurance company is giving you a hard time, you may want to consider consulting with a Maryland car accident lawyer. An experienced lawyer can help you negotiate with insurance companies and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
Talk to a reputable Maryland car accident lawyer
Consulting a Maryland car accident lawyer can offer several benefits. First, they can help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Second, they can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure that you receive a fair settlement. Finally, they can help you gather evidence to support your claim, including medical records, witness statements, and other documentation that can help strengthen your case. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Maryland, it’s essential to contact a reputable attorney to protect your rights and interests.
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