Best Car Accident Lawyers in Columbia

FAQs

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

  To report non-emergencies, residents in Columbia, MD are urged to call 410-313-2200.

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

  An accident report from the Maryland State Police can be obtained by contacting the Central Records Division. The report is available approximately 10 days following the accident.

• What are the grounds to sue for a car accident in Columbia, MD?

  Under Columbia laws, you typically have the right to sue for injuries if you are hurt in a vehicle accident. Most of the time, "negligence" claims are used in these sorts of situations to accuse the motorist of failing to exercise due caution. Your lawyer must prove that the other motorist violated their duty of care, for example by speeding, failing to yield, or running red lights. Additionally, it must be established that the accident and losses were caused by the driver's negligence.

• Is one required to accept an offer of settlement from the insurance company following a car accident in Columbia, MD?

  You are not required to accept a settlement offer given to you by the at-fault driver's insurance company. You have the option of rejecting the offer, countering it, or hiring a car accident attorney in Columbia to represent you in future settlement negotiations. Up to and even throughout your case, you can bargain and accept a settlement offer from the insurance company. You may also opt to settle at any time before the court rules on your case.

• When should one hire a lawyer for a car accident in Columbia, MD?

  The sooner you speak with an attorney about your circumstances, the sooner you may start working toward financial compensation for your injuries. Hiring an attorney in Columbia as soon as possible is often necessary to maximize your potential settlement. When an accident happens, a chain of events begins that involves police, reporting agencies, repair businesses, insurance adjusters and companies, investigators, and lawyers. By seeking the services of an attorney, you can prevent the insurance company's methods and efforts to avoid compensating for your damages.

• What are the common causes of car accidents in Columbia?

  Drunk drivers, unsafe and careless road conditions, and a failure to drive safely in inclement weather all contribute to automobile accidents in Columbia, but the most prevalent cause of accidents is plain inattentiveness. Several studies have found that talking on the phone, whether hands-free or hand-held, had the same chance of causing an accident as driving with a 0.08 blood alcohol content.

• Can the insurance company refuse to pay because the person injured in a Columbia car accident wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

  In a nutshell, no because Maryland is one of around 30 states that oppose the so-called seatbelt defense. If you are injured in a Columbia car accident caused by someone else, you should be able to obtain monetary compensation regardless of whether you were wearing your seatbelt at the time. Maryland does not recognize the seatbelt defense and will not allow a defendant to present it at trial to claim contributory negligence since it has nothing to do with culpability.

• 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.