Car accidents happen in the blink of an eye but leave long-lasting consequences—physically, emotionally, and financially. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Maryland, you may be entitled to compensation. At Houlon Berman, we are committed to helping victims navigate the legal complexities of personal injury law, ensuring justice is served and financial burdens are addressed.
Unlike other types of personal injury claims, car accident cases involve unique challenges such as dealing with insurance companies, determining fault, and gathering evidence before it disappears. That’s why having a dedicated legal team by your side can make all the difference.
Why Legal Representation Matters After a Car Accident
The Hidden Costs of an Accident
At first glance, you might only think about medical bills and car repairs. But the aftermath of a car accident often stretches far beyond what meets the eye. Victims may face:
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Ongoing physical therapy or rehabilitation
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Lost wages from missed work
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Emotional trauma, anxiety, and PTSD
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Reduced quality of life
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Long-term disability or permanent injuries
Without professional representation, you risk accepting a settlement that doesn’t cover your real expenses or long-term needs.
Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. They may pressure you into accepting a quick settlement, argue that your injuries are unrelated, or delay the process until you feel desperate. With an experienced car accident attorney, you level the playing field and ensure your rights are fully protected.
Maryland Car Accident Laws You Should Know
Every state has its own laws governing car accident claims, and Maryland is no exception. Understanding these rules is critical to building a successful case.
1. Contributory Negligence
Maryland follows the contributory negligence rule, meaning if you are found even 1% at fault, you may lose your right to recover compensation. This strict standard makes it essential to have a lawyer who can gather evidence and prove liability.
2. Statute of Limitations
Victims have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline may forfeit your right to seek damages.
3. Mandatory Insurance Coverage
Drivers in Maryland are required to carry minimum insurance coverage, but these limits are often insufficient to cover serious injuries. An attorney can explore additional avenues for compensation, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist claims.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Maryland
Understanding the root causes of accidents can help in building a strong claim. Some of the most frequent factors include:
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Distracted driving (texting, GPS use, eating)
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Speeding or reckless driving
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Drunk or impaired driving
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Weather conditions (fog, snow, rain)
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Poor road maintenance
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Vehicle defects or malfunctions
By investigating the cause, your attorney can identify responsible parties and hold them accountable.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Car Accident
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Call 911 – Ensure police and medical help arrive at the scene.
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Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, some conditions surface later.
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Document the Scene – Take pictures, collect witness information, and exchange insurance details.
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Avoid Admitting Fault – Never make statements that could be used against you.
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Consult a Lawyer Quickly – The sooner you get legal help, the stronger your case.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Victims of car accidents may recover damages for both economic and non-economic losses, including:
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Medical bills (current and future)
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Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Property damage
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Loss of consortium (impact on relationships)
In cases involving gross negligence or reckless behavior, punitive damages may also be available.
Why Choose Houlon Berman for Car Accident Cases?
At Houlon Berman, our attorneys combine deep knowledge of Maryland law with decades of trial experience. We approach every case with compassion, precision, and a relentless commitment to justice. Our goal is not just to settle—but to fight for the maximum compensation our clients deserve.
We also understand that legal fees can be intimidating, which is why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Siloing Insertions (Internal Linking)
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Learn more about our broad legal services on our Practice Areas page.
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For deeper insights into injury claims, visit our Personal Injury Law section.
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If your accident occurred in Prince George’s County, our dedicated team can assist. Explore our Prince George’s County Car Accident Lawyer services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Maryland?
You have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Acting quickly ensures stronger evidence and better outcomes.
Q2: What if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Because Maryland follows contributory negligence, being even slightly at fault may bar recovery. An attorney can help challenge claims of shared responsibility.
Q3: Do I need to go to court for my car accident case?
Not always. Many cases settle out of court. However, if insurers refuse to offer fair compensation, we are prepared to represent you in trial.
Q4: What damages can I recover after a car accident?
You may recover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more depending on your case’s circumstances.
Q5: How much does it cost to hire a lawyer?
We operate on a contingency fee basis—meaning you owe us nothing unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Car accidents can change your life in an instant, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Houlon Berman, our Maryland car accident lawyers are ready to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free case evaluation and take the first step toward justice.