Winning a car accident case in Maryland is never a sure thing, even if you take it to court. Unfortunately, there are simply no guarantees when it comes to the outcome of such cases.
However, there are certain measures that you can take as a victim to improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome. When you sustain injuries as a result of someone else’s carelessness, you have various options at your disposal. However, regardless of which option you choose, you still need to address the task of repairing your car and taking care of your physical well-being. These factors and more will impact the chances of winning your case.
For a free case review with our Maryland car accident attorneys, call Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291.
How Do I Determine the Chances of Winning My Car Accident Case in Maryland?
In Maryland, personal injury law provides recourse for individuals who have been wrongfully injured in a car accident. If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, it is natural to wonder about the likelihood of winning your car accident case and obtaining the compensation you deserve. Fortunately, our Maryland car accident lawyers have the experience to assess your case and determine the possibility of your case’s success. Several factors can significantly impact the chances of winning a car accident case in Maryland, including the following:
Quality of the Evidence
When it comes to a car accident case, the strength and quality of the evidence can make or break the outcome. It is crucial to start gathering evidence as soon as possible after the accident occurs. This can involve obtaining police reports, gathering statements from witnesses, capturing photographs of the accident scene and any damage sustained by the vehicles involved, and preserving any physical evidence that might be relevant to the case. These steps are essential in building a strong case and presenting a compelling argument in court.
Degree of Fault for Each Party
In Maryland, the legal system abides by the principle of contributory negligence. This implies that in a car accident case, you can be barred from receiving any compensation if even 1% of the fault is attributed to you. It is of utmost importance to establish clear liability on the part of the other driver to increase your chances of winning the case and securing the maximum possible compensation for your injuries and damages.
Legal Representation
Having skilled legal representation is vital for navigating Maryland’s legal system effectively. An experienced personal injury attorney will have comprehensive knowledge of state laws, understand the intricacies of car accident cases, and be adept at negotiating with insurance companies or presenting a strong case in court.
Type of Insurance Coverage Involved
Understanding insurance coverage is essential in car accident cases. Maryland law requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. However, it is not uncommon for insurance companies to dispute claims or offer settlements that do not adequately cover the damages suffered. Further, you might have additional coverage that protects you from losses you might normally need to sue to recover.
How Can I Increase the Chances of Winning My Car Accident Case in Maryland?
Of course, a car accident case is a lively process. Thus, there are ways of increasing your chances of winning your case and getting the compensation you are owed. Below are some practical tips to increase the odds of winning your claim:
Never Admit Fault
When filing a car accident claim in Maryland, it’s crucial to avoid accepting blame for the incident. It’s possible that you might initially seem responsible for the collision, but that doesn’t necessarily indicate fault. In the moments following the accident, your perception and judgment might be impaired by shock. It’s best to wait until your attorney arrives on the scene and then follow their advice. If you do acknowledge liability, your words could be used against you, even if you recant them later.
Remember that conceding fault does not only refer to spoken statements. Your behavior after the accident can also be viewed as an admission of guilt by law enforcement. For example, saying sorry to the other party or offering to pay for their medical expenses might be seen as incriminating conduct that could be employed against you in court.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
It is also crucial to seek immediate medical attention after an accident, even if you do not feel any pain. Some injuries might not be evident right away, and it is essential to receive treatment to establish a connection between your injuries and the accident.
Additionally, if you intend to file a claim against the other driver for negligence, you will need to prove that their actions caused your injuries. Medical treatment can provide evidence to support your claim and establish a link between the accident and your injuries.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you plan to file a claim against the responsible driver, it is essential to gather evidence at the scene of the car accident. You have the option to take pictures and videos of the accident to help with your case. Be on the lookout for physical evidence, such as tire marks and damage to the vehicles involved.
It is also important to obtain written statements from witnesses before their recollection of the accident becomes unreliable. Witnesses’ testimonies of the incident are critical in determining the outcome of the case. If it comes down to your word against that of the other driver, an independent witness is necessary to establish who is telling the truth.
Obtain the Police Report
A police report can be a valuable form of evidence, mainly because it comes from a neutral source. Aside from the police’s assessment of blame, the report can also provide beneficial information such as witness accounts, statements from involved parties, photographs of the scene, and additional details.
Do Not Share Details About the Accident
If you ever find yourself involved in a car accident case, it’s essential to be cautious about what you say. This is because anything you say can be used against you by the opposing party, including the insurance company and the other driver. They will be on the lookout for any comments that can help build their case. Therefore, avoid discussing the accident with anyone other than your lawyer. By allowing your attorney to speak for you, you can rest assured that your interests are being protected.
It is also crucial to avoid sharing any details about the accident on social media platforms. Any comments you make about the incident can be misinterpreted or misconstrued by a judge or insurer, potentially ruining your chances of winning the case. Insurance companies might monitor your social media activity to find any evidence that can be used against you. Therefore, it is best to remain silent and let your attorney handle the communication on your behalf.
Our Maryland Car Accident Lawyers Can Help Your Chances of Success
Contact Rice, Murtha & Psoras today at (410) 694-7291 to receive your free case evaluation with our Maryland car accident lawyers.