Did you know that the number one cause of car accidents is distracted driving? While some accidents are caused by inclement weather, hazardous road conditions, and faulty car parts, the majority of accidents are a result of driver negligence. Read on to learn more about driver negligence in Maryland.
Common examples of negligence:
In order to keep ourselves, our passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers safe, it is important to avoid the following examples of negligence:
- Texting while driving
- Drugged driving
- Drunk driving
- Failure to follow traffic signs
- Driving while tired or fatigued
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
Fulfilling the burden of proof:
If you are injured due to another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation. But, in order to recover the compensation you deserve, you will have to fulfill the burden of proof. To do so, it is important to take the following steps immediately after an accident occurs:
- Call 911
- The police can send an ambulance to the scene, file an accident report, and more.
- Document the scene
- Take pictures and videos of the damage done to all cars involved. You should also document your injuries as well as any damaged property.
- Obtain witness contacts
- If anyone saw your accident occur, they may be able to corroborate your version of events. Be sure to ask for their name and contact information.
- Seek medical attention
- Often, people attempt to skip a trip to the hospital. This may be a bad idea for a number of reasons. First of all, it is possible to sustain a serious injury without realizing it. In fact, some injuries do not begin to show symptoms for days or even weeks. Second, going to the hospital will provide you with important proof of the origin and extent of your injuries. Before leaving, ask your doctor for a copy of any relevant medical documents, as these can play a large role in a personal injury case.
- File your claim in time
- There is a deadline known as a statute of limitations. In Maryland, the statute of limitations for a personal injury accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within three years will likely mean losing your opportunity to take legal action.
If you have been injured due to another party’s negligence, our firm is here to help. Reach out today to discuss your case.
Contact Us Today
Our firm understands how overwhelming the claims process can be, which is why it is our job to handle the entire legal side of the matter while you focus solely on what matters most: healing. We know the ins and outs of the claims process, and we are ready to put our knowledge and experience in the field to work for you. Contact The Dorsey Law Firm today to schedule your free initial consultation.