Best Car Accident Lawyers in Waldorf

FAQs

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

  The Charles County Sheriff can be contacted at (301) 932-7777.

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

  To obtain a police report from the Charles County Sheriff:

  1. Download this form and fill it out: https://www.ccso.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Form331-Public-Records-Request-Form.pdf or go to any of the 3 district stations and obtain the form from them, or submit a letter on plain paper/company letterhead.
  2. Mail the request and send it to:

  Charles County Sheriff’s Office Records Section PO Box 189 La Plata, MD 20646

  Please be informed that the report costs $8 and that it takes 10 working days to process the request.

• Who can file for a wrongful death lawsuit as a result of a car accident in Waldorf?

  A wrongful death is a civil lawsuit pursued by the surviving family members looking for justice and damages for their loss in Waldorf. However, not everyone can file for this, as only immediate family members can. The exceptions include the decedent's parents, if they were cared for prior to death, and any individuals who were financially supported by the decedent.

• Can a negligent driver who was injured in Waldorf pursue damages against another driver?

  Waldorf follows Maryland's strict contributory negligence law, which states that an injured plaintiff is unable to recover damages from a defendant if they were proven to be just as negligent and their actions contributed to the injury they are suffering from. However, the plaintiff can still win the case if they can show that the defendant had a last-second chance to avoid the accident but chose not to.

• Is it always required to report every car accident to the police in Waldorf?

  Not all the time. Most accidents involve only property damage, and if this is the case, then all that is needed to be done is for the involved drivers to exchange insurance information. However, if the collision involved anything serious such as injuries, a drunk driver, a hit-and-run, or one of the drivers injuring a pet, then the police will need to be called.

• Is it possible for a car accident victim in Waldorf to sue for damages after they've started suffering from anxiety and PTSD?

  Yes, this is possible. PTSD and anxiety fall under non-economic damages along with insomnia, psychological and emotional distress, depression, and overall diminished quality of life. Waldorf follows Maryland's constantly changing non-economic damage cap which appears to be increasing by around $15,000 per year, enacted at the request of insurance companies who, unsurprisingly, want to limit the amount of money they have to pay in claims.

• Are settlements for car accidents in Waldorf taxed?

  Under state or federal laws, personal injury settlements are not taxed, as these do not fall under “income” according to the Internal Revenue Service definition. However, settlements that the jury awards the claimant to cover any lost wages are taxed. This shouldn't come as a surprise, as wages are normally taxed.

• 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.