Sharing the road in Maryland, whether navigating bustling Baltimore or cruising scenic country highways, comes with a certain level of risk. Car accidents are a harsh reality, and understanding the common causes in our state can significantly improve your defensive driving skills. This blog post dives into the leading culprits behind car crashes in Maryland, along with a breakdown of liability to empower you with knowledge in case you’re ever involved in an unfortunate incident. Read Expert Maryland Car Crash Lawyer Services to learn more.
Top Causes Of Car Crashes In Maryland
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Distracted Driving: In our hyper-connected world, distractions abound. Using cell phones (texting, talking, browsing), grabbing a bite on the go, or simply letting your mind wander all take your focus away from the road, increasing crash risk.
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Driving Under the Influence (DUI): This one’s a no-brainer. Alcohol and drugs severely impair judgment and coordination, making you a danger to yourself and others.
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Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions significantly reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
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Reckless Driving: Ignoring traffic signals and signs, weaving through traffic, and tailgating are all forms of reckless driving that create hazardous situations on the road.
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Aggressive Driving: Letting road rage take hold through rude gestures, yelling, or cutting off other vehicles is not only bad manners, but also a recipe for disaster.
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Improper Lane Changes: Failing to use turn signals or check blind spots before changing lanes can lead to collisions with unsuspecting drivers.
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Following Too Closely (Tailgating): Not leaving enough space between your car and the vehicle in front drastically reduces your ability to react safely to sudden stops.
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Ignoring Traffic Signals and Signs: Running red lights, disobeying stop signs, and failing to yield the right of way are all violations that can lead to accidents.
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Drowsy Driving: Operating a vehicle while fatigued or sleep-deprived is akin to driving under the influence. Your reaction time slows, and your judgment becomes impaired.
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Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and icy roads all demand extra caution from drivers. Adjust your speed and driving style accordingly to maintain control of your vehicle.
Understanding Liability In A Car Crash
Maryland follows a contributory negligence system for car accident liability. This means the fault, and consequently the financial responsibility, for the accident is shared among the parties involved based on their percentage of contribution. Imagine a scenario where you’re rear-ended by a driver texting on their phone. Here, you might be attributed 0% fault, while the texting driver receives 100% fault. However, things get trickier when both parties share some blame in the accident.
Here’s how contributory negligence can impact your claim:
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More Than 50% Fault: If you’re found to be more than 50% at fault for the accident, you’re unfortunately barred from recovering any damages from the other driver’s insurance company.
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Less Than 50% Fault: While you can still recover damages if you’re found to be less than 50% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Why Consulting A Maryland Car Crash Lawyer Is Crucial
Determining fault in a car accident can be a complex web to navigate, especially when dealing with insurance companies. An experienced Maryland car crash lawyer like Attorney Big Al, can be your champion in these situations. Here’s how Attorney Big Al can help:
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Investigating the Accident: Attorney Big Al will meticulously gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos, to build a strong case for your claim.
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Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlements. Attorney Big Al has the experience and knowledge to negotiate a fair settlement that reflects the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
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Understanding Maryland Car Crash Laws: Maryland car crash laws can be intricate. Attorney Big Al is well-versed in these laws and can ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
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Representing You in Court (if necessary): If a fair settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company, Attorney Big Al can represent you in court and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
By being aware of the leading causes of car crashes in Maryland and understanding how contributory negligence works, you can be a more informed and responsible driver. However, if you’re ever involved in an accident, remember that you’re not alone. Seeking the guidance of a skilled Maryland car crash lawyer like Attorney Big Al is crucial. Attorney Big Al understands the complexities of car crash cases and will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve to recover from your injuries and move forward. Here at Attorney Big Al’s office, we understand that car accidents can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. We are committed to providing compassionate and personalized legal representation throughout your entire case. Contact our team today!
FAQs: Attorney Big Al
What should I do immediately after a car crash in Maryland?
- Ensure safety: Check yourself and others involved for injuries. If necessary, call 911 immediately.
- Secure the scene: If possible, turn on your hazard lights and move your car to a safe location away from traffic.
- Exchange information: Collect contact details and insurance information from all parties involved, including witnesses.
- Document the accident: Take pictures of the damage to vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
- Report the accident: File a police report, even for minor accidents. This will be crucial for insurance claims.
- Don’t admit fault: Avoid making any statements that could be construed as accepting blame for the accident.
- Contact your insurance company: Inform them about the accident as soon as possible.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Maryland?
In Maryland, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit arising from a car accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, it’s important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible because evidence can disappear and memories can fade over time.
What if I share some fault for the car accident?
Maryland follows a contributory negligence system. This means that the amount of compensation you receive will be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault, your awarded damages will be decreased by 20%. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of shared fault and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Do I need a lawyer after a car accident in Maryland?
While not always mandatory, having a Maryland car crash lawyer on your side is highly recommended. An experienced attorney can handle the legal complexities of your case, negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement, and represent you in court if necessary.
How can Attorney Big Al help with my Maryland car accident case?
Attorney Big Al offers a free consultation to discuss your car accident case. They will:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly to gather evidence that strengthens your claim.
- Handle all communication with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Provide you with compassionate and personalized legal representation throughout the entire process.