In Maryland, if you have been injured in a car accident as a direct result of another party’s negligence, you are legally entitled to file a claim against that party to seek compensation for your damages. As a result of a car accident, you may have sustained both physical and mental trauma that negatively impacts your life. In addition, you may be saddled with significant economic and noneconomic damages. To ensure you do not hurt your chances of recovering financial compensation for your losses, there are certain mistakes you should avoid making when filing a claim. If you have been injured in a car accident as a result of negligence, please read on and contact a trusted Prince George’s County Car Accident Lawyer who can help you seek monetary compensation for your economic and noneconomic damages.
What should I not do after a car accident in Maryland?
After a car accident, certain mistakes could jeopardize your ability to recover financial compensation for your damages. To avoid this issue, you should not:
Leave the scene of the accident
After a car accident, if you leave the scene of the accident before law enforcement agents arrive at the scene, you will not have a chance to file a police report. Filing a police report is extremely important in this situation as it documents the accident. In addition, if you do not stay, you may lose your opportunity to ask anyone who witnessed the accident for their contact information as they can make a statement about the incident as well as corroborate your claim later on. In addition, a witness may be able to recount details you may not remember which could help determine liability. Leaving the scene of an accident without filing a police report or collecting witnesses’ contact information could cost you pertinent evidence that could make your case against a negligent party stronger.
Lose your medical records or exaggerate your injuries
It is extremely important to seek immediate medical attention after a car accident. Certain injuries have delayed side effects or may not be visible which could turn life-threatening if they are left untreated. You should keep all pertinent medical documents that can prove the origin, extent, and severity of your injuries. You should also keep all of your accumulated medical bills and any other costs you have incurred as a result of your injuries. In addition, you should refrain from exaggerating your injuries. After a car accident, you will likely be approached by the negligent party’s insurance company. An insurance adjuster will try to offer you a lowball settlement and try to get you to say something that could contradict your claims. You should not speak to or share any of your medical records with insurance companies without consulting an experienced lawyer.
Miss the filing deadline
In Maryland, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim against a negligent party to seek financial compensation for your damages. It is important to take legal action as soon as possible. You are entitled to file a claim at any point within those three years. However, if you wait too long you may miss the deadline which will bar you from ever recovering compensation or your damages in the future.
In the unfortunate event that you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident due to negligence, contact one of our dedicated team members. Our firm is committed to helping our clients file a claim within the right time frame. Allow our firm to fight on your behalf to help you seek the justice you deserve.
