Carroll County, MD Car Accident Lawyer
An unfortunate consequence of driving along Carroll County roads and highways is car accidents. Luckily, many people walk away from car crashes without any significant injuries. However, some car accident victims find their lives forever altered by a severe injury. You need an experienced Carroll County lawyer working for your best interests.
Our Carroll County, MD car accident lawyers have assisted hundreds of people who have suffered harm in car crashes through no fault of their own.
If you were injured, the person or persons responsible should be held accountable for any medical issues or financial hardship you now face. Our lawyers are committed to providing our clients with diligent, professional legal services. Contact Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291 to schedule a free consultation.
Causes of Car Accidents in Carroll County, MD
Car crashes occur for various reasons. While every accident is unique, there are many common factors and behaviors that increase the risk of a collision.
Drivers who are distracted or turn their attention from the road to focus on something else often endanger themselves, their passengers, and others on the road.
Driving requires focus, and when a motorist diverts their attention to texting, changing a radio station, or just engaging in a conversation with a passenger, they put others at risk. In fact, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents nationwide.
The next likely reason for a car accident is drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs. Some prescription medications can also impair drivers. Drugs and alcohol reduce drivers’ reflexes and their decision-making abilities, often contributing to car crashes.
Speeding is another contributing factor in many car crashes in Carroll County. Driving at an excessive speed limits a motorist’s ability to stop quickly or react to sudden changes in road conditions or traffic patterns.
Additionally, reckless or aggressive driving also increases the risk of an accident. Recklessly switching lanes, refusing to give the right of way, and ignoring traffic signs could all lead to catastrophic accidents.
A motorist’s behavior is not always to blame for a car accident. Other factors, including a poor road surface, debris left on the highway, or a malfunctioning vehicle, could result in a crash between two or more cars.
Injuries from Car Accidents in Carroll County, MD
Many times, a person involved in a car accident will walk away without a scratch or with only minor cuts or bruises. However, depending on the causes of the accident and the nature of the collision, some car accident victims suffer devastating injuries, such as…
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and shoulder injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Lacerations and cuts
- Paralysis
- Wrongful Death
Steps to Take if You Were in a Car Accident in Carroll County
Whenever you are involved in a car accident, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention for any serious injuries. Sometimes that means remaining where you are until help arrives.
If you are able to do so, it is critical to call the police. They will assist everyone involved in the accident and will generally call-in medical and mechanical help.
They will also file a detailed report concerning the accident, listing all of the individuals involved and preliminary findings on how the accident occurred. While this is not proof of who was at fault, a police report can help provide information when pursuing a personal injury claim.
Pictures are worth a thousand words. If possible, you should take photographs of the accident site. This would include all of the vehicles involved, their relative positions to each other, and the damage incurred.
Additionally, make sure to photograph the roadway, debris, skid marks, painted lanes, and any signage or lack of signage around the crash area. This information could prove vital in reconstructing the accident and determining the fault.
Eyewitness testimony can help establish you were not at fault or did not contribute to a car accident. If you can, get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the crash occur.
Finally, contact our experienced Carroll County, MD car accident lawyers. Be sure to do this before signing any settlement agreement or giving any statement to an insurance company.
Factors in Car Accident Settlements and Lawsuits in Carroll County
No two car accidents are the same and neither are all personal injury lawsuits. Our experienced Carroll County, MD car accident lawyers will thoroughly evaluate all of the facts related to your crash and your injuries.
We will also negotiate with the defendant’s insurance company to try and obtain a reasonable settlement or, if necessary, prepare your case for trial.
Sometimes, the circumstances surrounding a car crash make determining who was at fault challenging. Our knowledgeable car accident lawyers will use the information from police reports, eyewitness testimony, physical evidence, and expert opinions to try and establish that another driver was at fault.
The “Contributory Negligence” Doctrine in Carroll County, MD Car Accident Litigation
One of the most frustrating issues in Carroll County, MD car accident cases is the legal doctrine of “contributory negligence.” Under this doctrine, an injured party is prohibited from collecting compensation for injuries if they are found to have contributed to the accident.
Basically, this means that if a jury determines that you were 1% responsible for an accident and the defendant was 99% responsible, you will not receive any compensation for your injuries or damages. Our attorneys are well aware of this hurdle and will prepare your case accordingly.
Call Our Carroll County, MD Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Injuries sustained in a car accident could lead to long-lasting injuries and financial hardships. Work on your case with our committed car crash lawyers at your side. Call Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291 to schedule a free consultation.
