Best Car Accident Lawyers in Hyattsville

FAQs

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

  The Hyattsville Police Department can be reached at (301) 985-5060.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Hyattsville City Police, call (301) 985-5060 for availability and instructions. Please be informed that the report costs $12, and you would need to have a case number, an incident number, or the location of the incident.

• Why is it not advisable to say anything online after a car accident in Hyattsville?

  The reason for this is to keep any personal injury claims in Hyattsville from being scrutinized by insurance adjusters, who will most certainly be doing their own investigations. What one may think of as a harmless comment or a post can be twisted or used as grounds for the claimant to not be awarded the compensation they are asking for.

• Is it alright to engage in a conversation with an insurance adjuster after a car accident in Hyattsville?

  It is highly discouraged to interact with insurance companies if you are looking to get compensated for your damages. They reach out to claimants in Hyattsville in the hopes that they would be willing to settle for whatever offer they could give. It is good to be reminded that insurance companies are businesses looking to turn a profit and will be constantly trying to cut their costs.

• How long does a victim involved in a car accident in Hyattsville have to file a lawsuit?

  Injured individuals who wish to be compensated for their medical expenses and non-economic damages should start taking steps toward filing for a damage claim within three years from the date of the accident. It may sound like a long time, but with medical recovery involved, the claimant may be too focused on their health. Additionally, it is advised to start as soon as possible so as not to lose evidence, such as witness testimonies.

• What happens if a person's medical expenses have already exceeded the limits of their insurance because of an injury incurred from a car accident in Hyattsville?

  This means that the injured is now free to pursue the at-fault party for compensation. Apart from this, they also have the option to choose other provisions in their policy, such as the collision or the comprehensive liability plan. As a reminder, all vehicles operating in Hyattsville and all of Maryland are required to carry:

  • $30,000 bodily injury liability for one person per accident
  • $60,000 bodily injury liability for two or more people per accident
  • $15,000 property damage per accident

• Is it guaranteed for somebody who was injured in a car accident in Hyattsville to be awarded compensation?

  It is possible for the injured individual to be compensated for their damages if they could prove that all the negligence falls upon the shoulders of the other driver. Otherwise, they will not be entitled to receive anything. Hyattsville, along with the rest of Maryland, is a “Fault” state, which means that the plaintiff will not recover any financial restitution if the defendant proves they were also responsible for the accident.

• 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.