do you need an auto accident attorney in central Maryland? We can help. The roads in the Maryland area are some of the most congested in the country. For the most part, people do their best to get to and from their destinations in a safe manner. Unfortunately, not everyone is as concerned about the safety of themselves or those around them as much as they should. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, buses, and bicycles all have to share the roads. When drivers are not being careful, they can get into an accident and cause someone else to become very seriously injured. The victims of automobile accidents are often tragically faced with long-term physical, financial, and emotional burdens. If you have been seriously injured by the negligence of another driver in Howard County, it is important that you consider your legal options. The experienced legal team at the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz can help you recover compensation for the burdens you have faced as a result of the other party’s negligence. Contact our firm today for quality legal representation.
Driver Negligence
One of the biggest contributing factors to automobile accidents in the state of Maryland is driver negligence. There is often a combination of factors that can go into causing an accident, but when one or both parties are negligent, the results can be significant. The state of Maryland is one of the few that uses the legal principle of contributory negligence in personal injury matters. As a result, if you have any percentage of fault in causing the accident, you will not be able to take legal action against the other party for compensation. Some of the many forms of driver negligence include the following:
- Drugged or drunk driving
- Distracted driving
- Using a cell phone without hands-free technology
- Drowsy driving
- Speeding
- Failure to follow traffic signs or stop lights
- Reckless driving
Car Accidents
Car accidents happen every day in Maryland. This is one of the many states where Personal Injury Protection, or PIP, is available to help pay for some of the medical bills and lost wages of a person who has been involved in an automobile accident, regardless of whether he or she was at fault. This no-fault policy that is required to be a part of all insurance policies in the state, unless the policyholder has agreed to waive their rights to such coverage. Car accident victims may still decide to sue the negligent party for damages even if they file a PIP claim. If you have been injured in a car accident, it is critical that you file a police report to start collecting evidence and information as soon as possible. Be sure to seek immediate medical attention as well.
Mass Transit Accidents
Maryland has an effective public transportation system of buses and trains to help commuters and other travelers get around the area easily. Passengers trust that the Maryland Transit Administration will get them safely to and from their destinations, but unfortunately, accidents happen and people can become seriously injured. If a government entity is found to have been negligent in operating a train or bus, they can be held liable for any injuries that may be associated with the accident. Some of the forms of negligence often seen in mass transit accidents include the following:
- Excessive speeding
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol
It is important to note that if you are injured in an accident caused by a government entity and wish to pursue your legal options, you must file a Notice of Claim. This simply informs the Maryland Transit Administration that you plan to take action and allows them to answer. You must file the Notice of Claim within 1 year of the date of the accident and if you fail to do so, you are relinquishing your rights to take action.
Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are some of the most serious types of accidents a motorist can be involved in, solely because these vehicles are so massive. Trucks can weigh over 80,000 pounds, which makes them incredibly difficult to maneuver and come to a complete stop. Often, drivers are unable to make a full stop before it is too late. Other causes of truck accidents can include driver fatigue due to long hours on the road, driving while intoxicated, poorly maintained trucks, defective parts, among other issues. There are strict federal regulations in place that dictate how long a truck driver is permitted to drive without rest. When rules are broken or the vehicle is not appropriately maintained, other drivers can become seriously injured.
Motorcycle Accidents
Although many people enjoy riding motorcycles because of the freedom they offer, they also are at a much greater risk of injury, as the vehicle offers no protection from the road around them. It is important to note that in Maryland, motorcyclists are not extended the same Personal Injury Protection coverage as other motorists are. If you are injured as a motorcyclist, you may face the full burden of your medical bills, lost wages, and other hardships. If you can prove that the other party in the accident was acting negligently, they may be held liable for your injuries and you may be awarded compensation for the physical, financial, and emotional burdens of the accident.
Bicycle Accidents
Bicycles are an enjoyable way for people in Maryland to get around, whether they are riding a bicycle for leisure, to exercise, or to commute. Bicycles are forced to share the roads with other drivers and unfortunately, this puts them at high risk of getting seriously injured, as there is no protection offered. Assuming that an injured bicyclist also has an automobile, they can have any medical bills and lost wages covered by Personal Injury Protection insurance. If the injured party does not have PIP insurance, they may be able to file a claim with the other party’s insurance.
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are on the rise across the United States. With no protection from the road, a pedestrian can suffer from injuries with lifelong consequences if they are hit by a car. With the help of witness testimony, surveillance footage, and a police report, the injured party may be able to prove that a driver’s negligence caused the accident and they may ultimately be eligible to receive significant compensation for their injuries.
Contact Our Firm
If you have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident, it is necessary to consider your legal options. For an effective legal team that keeps your best interests in mind, contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.
