Best Car Accident Lawyers in Gaithersburg

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency hotline for the local police station in Gaithersburg is 301-279-8000.

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

  You can request a copy of your police report at the Maryland Transportation Authority's Central Records Unit by sending an email to mdtapolicerecords@mdtransportationauthority.com. You may also obtain it from the Montgomery County Department of Police by visiting the Public Safety Headquarters Records Division at 100 Edison Park Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878, or sending a mail to the same address. In addition, you can submit a request online by creating a user account at Montgomery County Police Department Records Center. Call 240-773-5330 ahead of time to ensure that the report is ready for release.

• What is the deadline of filing a car crash claim in Gaithersburg?

  The statute of limitations for filing negligence claims in Gaithersburg is three years. However, the statute of limitations applies to filing a lawsuit, not a claim. It means that if you fail to file a lawsuit or settle your claim within that period, even if you already filed a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance provider, your claim will be invalid.

• Which Gaithersburg roads get the most car accidents?

  Diamond Avenue, Frederick Avenue, and Quince Orchard Road are among the roads with the highest number of serious car collisions in and around Gaithersburg. Intersections 270, 370, and 95 are also on the list. In addition, two elders died in a crash on School Road near Muddy Branch Road in November 2022.

• Why should you hire a lawyer following a car crash in Gaithersburg?

  A car accident lawyer in Gaithersburg can assist you with interviewing witnesses, keeping records and evidence, and understanding the law. It can also help you negotiate a settlement to ensure you receive a fair compensation for your medical and financial needs as you recover from your injuries.

• Should you stay at the scene after a car accident in Gaithersburg?

  If you are fine in the aftermath of a car collision in Gaithersburg, you could stay and gather some information from the incident. Taking pictures of the damage to the vehicles and injuries each driver sustained could be helpful to the case. However, if you are badly injured, you should go straight to the hospital. The police will document the scene, and you may request a copy of the report later.

• What information should you collect in the aftermath of a car collision in Gaithersburg?

  In the event of a car wreck in Gaithersburg, taking photos of the scene, such as damage to the vehicle and injuries, can help show the jury what happened. Gathering the other driver’s information, like their name, contact number, license number, car model, and insurance details, is a good idea. In addition, documenting the location of the accident, lighting and weather conditions, road signs, security cameras, and possible witnesses could be useful.

• 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.