WGK Personal Injury Lawyers | October 29, 2025 | Car Accidents
Car accidents can happen in an instant, leaving you with medical bills, lost income, and a damaged vehicle. Whether you are insured by Erie Insurance or were hit by a driver who has an Erie policy, you may need to file a claim for compensation.
Here is what to know about filing an Erie Insurance claim after a car accident in Maryland.
Step 1: Report the Accident and File a Claim
Your priority after a car crash should be safety and medical care. Once you have received treatment and reported the accident to the police, notify Erie Insurance as soon as possible. You can file a claim by:
- Calling (800) 367-3743
- Reporting it online through your Erie Insurance account
- Contacting your local Erie agent
If Erie insures the other driver, you can also report the crash to start a third-party claim for your injuries and property damage.
Be ready to provide details when you report a claim. These include:
- The date, time, and location of the crash
- Names, contact information, and insurance details for all drivers involved
- The police report number, if available
- Photos or videos showing vehicle damage and the accident scene
Accurate reporting helps avoid delays and allows Erie to start its investigation while the evidence is fresh.
Step 2: Cooperate With the Adjuster, but Protect Your Rights
Erie will assign an insurance adjuster to investigate your claim after it is filed. The adjuster may ask for a recorded statement, photos of your vehicle, or access to your medical records.
Whether you are filing through your own policy or against another driver’s Erie policy, remember that the adjuster’s goal is to limit the company’s payout. They are not on your side, and anything you say can be used against you.
It’s best to speak with a car accident lawyer before giving a statement or signing any forms. Your lawyer can communicate with Erie on your behalf, make sure your information is accurate, and protect your claim from being unfairly reduced or denied.
Step 3: Understand the Types of Coverage Involved
The type of claim you file depends on your relationship to Erie Insurance and the details of the crash. If you are an Erie policyholder, your claim may involve:
- Collision coverage for vehicle repairs or replacement
- MedPay for medical bills regardless of fault
- Uninsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver lacks insurance
- Liability coverage for damage you cause to others
If the other driver has Erie Insurance, your claim will likely fall under their liability coverage, which pays for your injuries, lost income, and property damage. A Baltimore personal injury lawyer can review all available coverages to help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Step 4: Review and Negotiate Your Settlement Offer
Your adjuster may make a settlement offer once Erie completes its investigation. Unfortunately, these first offers often fall short, leaving out long-term medical care, future lost wages, or pain and suffering.
A Maryland car accident lawyer can determine the true value of your claim, gather the necessary evidence, and negotiate for a fair settlement. If Erie will not offer what is reasonable, your lawyer can take the case to court to fight for full compensation.
Step 5: Know Your Rights Under Maryland Law
Maryland follows a contributory negligence rule, which means that if you’re even 1 percent at fault for the crash, you may be barred from recovering compensation at all. This rule often gives insurance companies leverage to deny claims, even when their driver clearly caused most of the damage.
Having a lawyer on your side can help counter these tactics. Your lawyer can collect evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case proving the other driver’s fault and your right to compensation.
How a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Filing a claim with Erie Insurance can feel overwhelming, especially while you are dealing with injuries and car repairs. An experienced Maryland lawyer can step in to protect your interests and simplify the process.
Your lawyer can:
- Investigate the cause of your crash and identify all responsible parties
- Collect police reports, witness statements, and medical documentation
- Manage all communication with Erie adjusters and agents
- Negotiate aggressively for the maximum possible settlement
- File a lawsuit if necessary to hold the insurer accountable
When you have a lawyer handling your claim, you can focus on your health and recovery knowing that someone is advocating for your best interests every step of the way.
To learn more, contact WGK Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Dundalk car accident lawyer.
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers
14 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
(410) 837-2144
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers – Dundalk Office
7329 Holabird Ave Suite 3, Dundalk, MD 21222
By appointment only
(410) 970-3080
