The roads in Baltimore County are crowded and, unfortunately, littered with reckless drivers. This combination lends itself to very serious car accidents regularly. These accidents can result in injuries to drivers and passengers that may have lifelong impacts, not only physically but emotionally and financially as well. When negligence plays a role in a car accident, the victim needs to speak with an experienced accident attorney. The legal team at Markey & Orsi has proudly represented car accident victims for nearly 30 years. Our firm is committed to helping you recover the compensation you are entitled to after an accident. If you were injured in an accident in Baltimore County, Maryland, contact the car accident attorneys from Markey & Orsi today.
Common Causes of Maryland Car Accidents | Our Car Accident Attorneys Can Help
Unfortunately, car accidents are a fact of life in Maryland. Our attorneys have a history of helping accident victims recover the compensation they need to move on. If you have been injured due to another person’s negligence or recklessness behind the wheel, contact us. We help car accident victims win justice and compensation for these all-too-common events.
There are a number of different ways that car accidents can happen in Baltimore County. Some of these factors can be attributed to negligence, while others are extraneous factors that cannot be avoided. Some of the many factors that may cause car accidents include the following:
- Drowsy driving
- Driving while intoxicated
- Distracted driving
- Texting or other usage of a mobile device while driving
- Failure to yield
- Speeding excessively
- Failure to abide by stop signs or traffic lights
Personal Injury Protection in Maryland
Maryland is one of many states throughout the country that offers personal injury protection to drivers. This is a form of no-fault coverage, meaning that the driver will be able to have some of their medical bills and immediate expenses covered regardless of who was at fault. Under Maryland law, every auto insurer must offer PIP coverage of at least $2,500 per person — but drivers are permitted to waive it by signing an affirmative written waiver. Because of this, many Maryland drivers do not realize whether they actually carry PIP until after a crash. If you are unsure, check your declarations page or ask us to review your policy.
After an Accident
If you are injured in an accident, it is important to contact the police and get medical attention. Contacting the police provides some documentation of the incident. Most police reports will assign blame to one or more parties. This is important evidence that can support your case. Getting medical attention is also crucial. Getting the care you need can not only address your medical concerns but also document your injury in case a dispute arises regarding the existence or severity of your injury. Do not converse with the other party about fault or the case itself. If you are able, do make sure they are ok and safe.
Recovering Damages
If you have been injured in an accident, you may be entitled to recover damages if the accident was caused by the negligence of another driver. Compensation comes in the forms of economic and non-economic damages. Some of the damages that the injured party may be able to recover include additional medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and other burdens caused by the accident.
Where Your Baltimore County Car Accident Case Is Filed
Where your case is heard depends on what it is worth. Under Maryland’s Courts and Judicial Proceedings Article, claims seeking more than $30,000 must be brought in circuit court — for local crashes, that means the Circuit Court for Baltimore County in Towson. Smaller claims may proceed in District Court, which moves faster but holds no jury trials. Because serious injury cases usually belong in front of a jury, venue is a strategic decision worth discussing early. You can review our past case results to see the kinds of claims we have tried and resolved.
Contributory Negligence
Maryland is one of 4 states, along with the District of Columbia, that uphold the legal principle of contributory negligence. This legal principle can bar an injured party from pursuing damages if it is found that the plaintiff was at fault in any way for the accident. This is an important part of a car accident case, impacting thousands of injured people’s entitlement to compensation. While other states follow the legal principle of comparative negligence, Maryland’s laws are a serious obstacle for victims of serious injury caused by car accidents. It is important to retain an attorney that can fight the assessment if it is not in your favor.
To learn more about filing a car accident claim in Maryland, read the Markey & Orsi Guide to Car Accident Lawsuits.
Baltimore County Car Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Maryland?
In most cases, three years from the date the claim accrues, under Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101. Miss that deadline and the court will almost certainly dismiss your case, no matter how strong it is. Shorter notice deadlines can apply when a government vehicle or agency is involved, so speak with an attorney early.
Can I still recover if I was partly at fault for the crash?
Maryland’s contributory negligence rule is harsh: even 1% fault can bar recovery entirely. One narrow exception is the last clear chance doctrine, which may preserve a claim where the other driver had a final, realistic opportunity to avoid the collision and failed to take it. Never admit fault or guess at what you could have done differently.
Do I have PIP coverage on my Maryland auto policy?
Not necessarily. Maryland insurers must offer personal injury protection, but drivers may waive it in writing. Check your declarations page, or contact the Maryland Insurance Administration if you are unsure what your policy includes.
What if I was hit while walking or riding?
The same contributory negligence rule applies, which makes these claims especially difficult. We handle pedestrian accident claims and motorcycle accident cases, and can also assist as your Baltimore County auto accident attorney in any motor vehicle matter.
Contact Our Maryland Car Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, speaking with an attorney is essential. It is important to speak with an experienced injury attorney as soon as possible to assess your options. The legal team at Markey & Orsi has represented injured clients in Baltimore County, Maryland since 1990. If you need strong legal representation, contact our firm today.