Best Car Accident Lawyers in Ellicott City, MD

FAQs

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

  You can call 410-313-2200 for non-emergency situations in Ellicott City.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the Ellicott City police report by mail, email, or in person. You must fill out a Report Request Form and submit it to the Central Records Unit Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you requested by mail, you must also include a self-addressed, stamped, business-sized envelope with your request and payment.

• What is the time limit for making a car accident claim in Ellicott City?

  In Ellicott City, you generally have three years to file a car accident claim. A lawsuit must be filed within three years of the accident that caused your injuries, according to Maryland Code for Courts and Judicial Proceedings 5-101. If you file a lawsuit after the three-year deadline, your case might be dismissed, and you will receive no compensation. As a result, you must contact an Ellicott car accident lawyer to help you meet the deadline and determine your legal options.

• What factors can affect the settlement value for a car accident in Ellicott City?

  In Ellicott City, the common factors that can affect the settlement value for a car accident include a duty the driver failed to perform, an act or omission by the at-fault party, the extent of your injuries, insurance coverage, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. Although these factors could impact the settlement, you can hire an Ellicott City car accident lawyer to help you recover just compensation for your injuries and losses.

• Does Ellicott City belong to a no-fault state for car accidents?

  Ellicott City is in Maryland, an at-fault state for car accidents. This means that drivers can sue another driver for compensation after a collision. If you were hurt in a car accident, you can file a claim with your own insurance company, sue the other driver for monetary compensation for your medical bills, or sue the other driver's insurance company for damages.

• Can car accident victims sue for pain and suffering in Ellicott City?

  In Ellicott City, you can sue the insurance company of the driver who caused your car accident for pain and suffering. Drivers and passengers who have been injured as a result of another driver's negligence could sue the at-fault driver. Mental health and well-being, past and future pain and anguish, humiliation associated with disfigurements, loss of consortium, and physical impairment are some examples of pain and suffering.

• What happens if your Ellicott City car accident claim goes to court?

  If your car accident claim is presented in court, it will be decided by a judge or a jury. The evidence, including your testimony, will be heard by the judge or jury, who will decide if you should win and how much money you will receive as compensation for the injuries and losses you suffered. You must also demonstrate that the amount of compensation requested is justified. An Ellicott City car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process.

• 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.