Best Car Accident Lawyers in Laurel

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Laurel, Maryland?

  The non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Laurel is 301-498-0092.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Laurel, Maryland?

  You can obtain a copy of your accident report by visiting the local police station with your valid government-issued identification card and paying $10.00 per report. Your insurance company can also send a request letter on your behalf. The letter must contain the client's name, case or report number, additional relevant information, and the $10.00 report fee payable by business check or money order. Remember to include a stamped, self-addressed envelope with your request and mail it to the Laurel Police Department's Central Records.

• How do you estimate the value of your car accident claim in Laurel?

  The value of your car accident claim is determined by several factors. The first consideration is the severity of your injury. Were you injured in the car accident or did you break any bones? Did you sustain any permanent injuries? The second factor is the total cost of your medical expenses. The severity of the crash and the damage to your vehicle are also factors in determining the amount you will receive.

• How does the contributory negligence law affect your car accident claim in Laurel?

  According to Maryland's contributory negligence law, even if you were injured in a car accident in Laurel, you may not be able to recover compensation if you also acted negligently and that negligence contributed to your injury. If a jury decides that the plaintiff was even 1% to blame for the injuries, the plaintiff will not be able to recover compensation.

• What happens if the person driving your car in Laurel is involved in an accident?

  Because insurance policies are vehicle-specific, if your car's borrower was involved in an accident in Laurel, the costs of property damage and personal injury claims would be covered by your car insurance policy. Furthermore, if you loaned your car to someone who was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, had a revoked or suspended license, had a history of accidents and driving convictions, or was under the legal driving age, you could be held liable for a crash.

• Whom should you file a claim with if you were hurt while using the public transportation system in Laurel?

  Laurel is served by a number of public transportation agencies, including the Metro Bus, Amtrak Train, and MARC Train System, as well as special needs transportation options such as MetroAccess. If you are hurt while riding one of these systems, you can sue the companies that own and operate the ride. You can also sue the at-fault driver for compensation if it is proven that their actions caused the accident.

• Can drivers be held liable for car accidents caused by icy roads in Laurel during the winter?

  The Transportation Article of the Maryland Annotated Code requires drivers to engage in a series of safe and rational driving behaviors, with no exceptions for more slick driving conditions. According to Maryland Transportation Code Ann. 21-801 (2020), motorists are expected to drive at a reasonable speed in light of the actual and potential dangers present. This meant that, regardless of the weather in Laurel, a driver could be held responsible for a car accident on icy roads.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.