Best Car Accident Lawyers in Silver Spring

FAQs

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

  301-279-8000 is the police non-emergency number for Montgomery County where Silver Spring is located.

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

  You can request a copy of the report by writing to the Records Section of the Montgomery County Department of Police at 100 Edison Park Drive, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878.

• Why must you get a car accident lawyer in Silver Spring even if the incident is minor?

  You need to get a car accident lawyer in Silver Spring because even if the incident seems minor, it is possible that you were injured more than you think. Internal damage may be well hidden and pose no issues until weeks later. The other driver might know this as well and acquire an attorney as a preemptive measure.

• How do you prove a car accident claim in Silver Springs?

  In Silver Springs, you can prove a car accident claim by establishing negligence on the part of the other driver. You must show that the defendant owed you a duty of care and that they breached this obligation, causing you harm. Violations of traffic laws and failures to comply with safe driving practices imply negligence.

• How are your car accident damages determined in Silver Springs?

  Car accident damages in Silver Springs are determined by presenting proof of the cost of tangible expenses necessitated by the crash, like lost wages, property repairs and replacements, and medical costs. Expert witnesses and legal precedents are used to determine the price of intangibles such as loss of consortium and emotional suffering.

• What should you do after a car accident in Silver Springs?

  After a car accident in Silver Springs, it is wise to get medical treatment for yourself and the other victims. Contacting the police is next, and they will make the necessary crash reports that will form part of the case's evidence. Identify who the eyewitnesses are and then get their contact information. It is also ideal to document the scene and take photos of the vehicles and the site. Exchanging insurance information with the other motorist is advisable.

• How long do car accident claimants in Silver Springs have to sue?

  Car accident claimants in Silver Springs must follow Maryland law, which sets a three-year time period for lawsuits, counting from after the crash. The starting point of this three-year timeframe is moved if the victim is a minor or incapacitated, counting instead from the day the plaintiff turns 18 or recovers to account for the legal or medical incapacity to sue. Hidden injuries also alter the deadline, and the counting then starts from the discovery of the concealed conditions.

• 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.