For many, being involved in a car accident is an incredibly scary and overwhelming experience. However, it’s important to understand that there are steps you must take in the immediate aftermath of an auto collision to best protect yourself. As such, if you are unsure how to proceed in these instances, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores what you must know about this matter, as well as why working with Baltimore County car accident attorneys is in your best interest to fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Are Common Causes of a Car Accident in Maryland?
Unfortunately, there are a number of actions that can lead to a car crash. In general, you’ll find that the most common causes all revolve around human error. As such, speeding or other reckless behaviors contribute heavily to collisions. When a driver exceeds the posted speed limits, it inhibits their ability to control the vehicle, which can make it harder to respond to hazards and can increase the severity of collisions. Similarly, if a driver weaves in and out of traffic, does not adhere to traffic signs, or engages in tailgating, it can increase the likelihood of a collision.
You’ll also find that distracted driving is increasingly common as a result of handheld technologies. Drivers who take their mind off the task of driving, their hands off the wheel, and their eyes off the road are much more likely to be involved in an accident. While texting is one of the most common methods of distracted driving, eating, applying cosmetics, using a GPS, and daydreaming are all also considered forms of distracted driving.
How Should I Proceed After an Auto Collision?
In the event you are involved in a car accident in Maryland, it’s imperative to ensure you take the necessary steps to protect yourself. Unfortunately, Maryland is a contributory negligence state, which means if you are found to have contributed any degree of fault to the collision, you can be barred from recovering the compensation you deserve. As such, ensuring you proceed carefully is critical to fighting for justice.
Generally, the first thing you should do after an accident has occurred is to contact emergency services. This not only brings a police presence to the scene to compile important information in an official report, but it also allows you to be examined by emergency medical technicians. This can help establish medical care immediately after the collision, which is not only beneficial for your health and well-being but also your personal injury case. By seeking care immediately, the other party cannot claim you contributed to your damages by failing to seek medical care.
In addition, you should watch what you say to the other driver. It is often human nature to apologize in collisions, even if you are not at fault. However, this can be twisted by the other party as your assumption of liability in the accident. As such, you should limit conversation to asking if they are okay and exchanging insurance information.
If you are involved in an accident, the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi is here to fight for you. We understand how complicated an auto collision can be to navigate, which is why our firm is committed to helping you during this process. Contact us today to learn more.