Best Car Accident Lawyers in Olney

FAQs

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

  To report non-emergencies in Olney, you may call the Montgomery County Department of Police at 301-279-8000.

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

  Access traffic accident reports from Olney on Data Montgomery, the official depository for public safety data of Montgomery County: https://data.montgomerycountymd.gov/. If you cannot locate your data online, you may submit a records request at: https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/pol/howdoI/records-request.html.

• Is car insurance required in Olney?

  According to the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration, all vehicles in Olney and the rest of Maryland must be insured at all times by a vehicle insurance company licensed in Maryland. The minimum required thresholds for liability insurance are $30,000 for bodily injury, $60,000 for two or more people, and $15,000 for property damage.

• What are the penalties for teen drivers who commit traffic offenses in Olney?

  Following Maryland law, teen drivers under the age of 18 in Olney may face serious penalties for repeated traffic violations and offenses. These may include:

  • Mandatory completion of driver improvement program (DIP).
  • The retaking of all law and driving skills tests.
  • License suspension for an accumulation of excessive points within a 12-month period, for repeated convictions of PBJs during the provisional period, or conviction on an offense classified as high-risk driving.
  • Revocation of driver's license.

• How are car accident settlements calculated in Olney?

  There is no universal sum or formula to calculate how much an accident is worth. In Olney, the settlement in a car accident case is typically calculated by adding together three basic elements of the victim's losses, namely (1) medical expenses; (2) lost income; and (3) pain and suffering. A personal injury lawyer experienced in handling auto accident cases can help a victim calculate the amount they are entitled to receive.

• Should you accept a settlement offer from the negligent driver’s party if you get injured in a car accident in Olney?

  It is highly advisable that you do not accept an initial settlement offer from the negligent driver’s party nor give a recorded statement to their insurance company. You have no legal obligation to comply with their request, and providing them with a statement can even be used against you to deny or undervalue your claim. It would be best not to take any offers until you have properly assessed your losses with a personal injury attorney.

• How much time do you have to file a car accident claim in Olney?

  If you got hurt in a car accident in Olney, you have up to three years from the date of the accident to file your claim. This follows the statute of limitations or deadline set by the state of Maryland for personal injury lawsuits. If you don’t file the claim before the statute of limitations expires, you will likely lose the opportunity to recover damages.

• 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.