Determining who is at fault in a car accident can be complex, with many factors to consider. In Baltimore, MD, car accidents operate on an at-fault basis, meaning after an accident happens, one party typically has to be found negligent and at fault for causing it.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in the area, proving who is at fault is the key to getting the compensation you need to focus on your healing and recovery. We can help you get the justice you deserve.
Contact WGK Personal Injury Lawyers at (410) 837-2144 today to schedule a free consultation with a Baltimore car accident attorney.
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How WGK Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After an Auto Accident in Baltimore
A personal injury lawyer is a crucial ally to victims of car accidents. Our Baltimore car accident lawyers have over 100 years of combined experience and have secured tens of millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. Here are some specific steps we can take to assist you:
- We will first evaluate your case to determine if there are valid grounds for a personal injury claim.
- Our attorneys will strategize on the best ways to prove negligence by gathering evidence, which may include photos from the crash scene, police reports, medical records, or witness testimonies.
- Many car accident claims get resolved through an insurance settlement rather than in court. We will communicate with insurance companies and attempt to negotiate an adequate settlement offer on your behalf.
If you need help after a car accident in Baltimore, Maryland, we’re here to help. Contact WGK Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free, no-risk case review.
How Common Are Car Accidents in Maryland?
Road safety is a major concern in all parts of the U.S., and Maryland is no exception.
- There were a total of 108,365 crashes in Maryland in 2022.
- This led to 370 fatal crashes
- Of the accidents, 28,015 involved injuries.
- The situation does not seem much improved in 2023; as of 8/31/23, there have been 392 fatal accidents in Maryland.
- Baltimore ranks as the city with most auto accidents nationwide.
It’s important to acknowledge this stark reality and understand why the accidents occur so we can take steps to prevent them going forward.
Overview of Why Car Accidents Happen in Baltimore, MD
A car accident occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, road debris, or otherwise is engaged in an accident.
They can happen for various reasons, but the most common include the following:
Distracted Driving
Distracted Driving involves activities that take the driver’s attention away from driving, such as texting, changing the radio station, or eating while driving.
Speeding
Exceeding the posted speed limit can affect a person’s ability to safely control the vehicle, which can lead to car accidents.
Drunk Driving
Alcohol or drug use impairs a motorist’s ability to operate their vehicle responsibly and can lead to dangerous decisions and serious drunk driving accidents.
Weather Conditions
Poor weather conditions like heavy rain, fog, or snow can reduce visibility and make roads slippery. This can cause difficult driving situations and lead to accidents.
Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accidents, particularly those involving high speed or significant impact, can result in a wide range of injuries. Some common ones include:
- Whiplash
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Broken Bones
- Back Injuries
- Burns
- Amputation Injuries
- Nerve Damage
Even minor car accidents can cause serious injuries, so it’s important to be careful anytime you’re in a vehicle.
Liability in Baltimore Car Accidents
Determining liability in a car accident can be complex as there are multiple potential parties that could be at fault. Some of the possible liable parties include:
Other Driver
If another driver was negligent, such as by speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence, they will typically be held responsible for your losses and damages.
Municipality
The local government or municipality could potentially be held responsible if dangerous road conditions due to poor maintenance or flawed design led to the accident.
Employer of Another Driver
If a commercial vehicle is involved in an accident, the company that owns the vehicle or employs the driver may bear some liability, particularly if they were negligent in their duties, such as regular maintenance of vehicles or proper training of drivers.
Victim Can Be Partially Responsible
In some cases, the victim could be found partially at fault for the accident. For example, an injured party was speeding and was hit by a driver who ran a red light. This is known as contributory negligence and can affect compensation.
Unfortunately, Maryland is one of the few contributory negligence states in the country. Under this rule, even if you’re found to be the slightest bit negligent and it contributed to your accident/injury, then you cannot collect any damages from other parties who were more at fault than yourself. An attorney can help protect your rights.
Defective Parts or Vehicle
If an auto defect contributed to the accident – like faulty brakes or tires – then manufacturers or distributors might be held liable under product liability law.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers
Determining who is at fault for a car accident can often be complex and requires comprehensive investigation. In Baltimore, or anywhere else for that matter, it’s important not to make any assumptions or admit guilt after an accident. Always speak with a lawyer first. If you need help with an accident in Baltimore, Maryland, we’re here for you. Contact us today at (410) 837-2144 to schedule a free consultation with a Baltimore car accident lawyer.
