Avoid These Baltimore Car Accident Mistakes
Car accidents can be traumatic experiences, and in the aftermath, it’s easy to make mistakes that could potentially harm your case should you decide to pursue compensation. As a law firm that has helped countless individuals navigate through the complexities of car accident claims, we’ve seen firsthand the common pitfalls that can occur. I’ve highlighted these Baltimore car accident mistakes to avoid.
One of the most common mistakes people make following a car accident is failing to call the police. Regardless of the severity of the crash, it’s important to have an official report on record. This document can be crucial when it comes to filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Additionally, the police report may contain valuable information that can help establish fault.
Must You Call the Police After a Baltimore Car Accident?
The Maryland Insurance Administration is the government watchdog, assigned to regulate insurance companies. This is their guidance.
“Most insurance companies require you report the loss to the police department as soon as possible. Some policies even require you to report the loss to the police within a specific time period. These requirements will be listed in your policy documents. If you cannot find these requirements in your policy, contact your insurance company or insurance producer (agent or broker) for assistance to be sure you know what to do if you need to file an uninsured motorist claim.”
-MIA Consumer Advisory
The MIA also advises you must call the Baltimore Police in the following circumstances:
“AFTER A COLLISION, YOU MUST CALL THE POLICE WHEN:
- Someone’s been injured.
- A vehicle cannot be safely moved.
- A driver appears to be intoxicated.
- A driver does not have a license.
- A driver tries to leave the scene without providing the proper information.
- Public property has been damaged.
Why You Should Call the Police After a Baltimore Car Accident
Irrespective of the foregoing, after a Baltimore car accident, contacting law enforcement immediately is critical for multiple reasons. First and foremost, the police are equipped to assess the situation comprehensively and create an accurate record of events. Their report rarely serves as a legally admissible document, but provides impartial evidence of the incident. This is especially important when dealing with insurance companies that may dispute liability or the extent of damages. By calling the police, you ensure that all pertinent details, such as vehicle positions, road conditions, and witness statements, are officially documented. This can help preserve crucial evidence, including photographs of the scene and skid marks, which may be invaluable if the case proceeds to litigation. Additionally, police presence promotes safety by helping control traffic and ensuring that injured individuals receive prompt medical attention if necessary. In an environment like Baltimore where road conditions, Interstates, and urban traffic can be unpredictable, having an official report protects your rights and builds a solid foundation for any personal injury or insurance claim.
Why It Does Not Make Sense to Delay Getting Medical Care After a Baltimore Car Accident
After a Baltimore car accident, obtaining prompt medical care may prove critical. Some injuries are not immediately apparent. Some symptoms can worsen over time, and delayed treatment may lead to complications. Immediate evaluation ensures that hidden injuries such as internal bleeding, concussions, or soft tissue damage are promptly diagnosed and treated. Timely intervention stabilizes your condition. No insurance claims adjuster can argue with any of these concerns.
Three decades of trying personal injury cases against the insurance companies employing those adjusters has taught me a second, and invaluable, rationale for quick medical evaluations following a car accident. They help build a comprehensive medical record, which is invaluable for personal injury claims. Medical professionals document the nature, severity, and treatment of your injuries, establishing clear evidence that supports your claim. Insurance companies often challenge the connection between the accident and any subsequent symptoms if there is a delay in care. By seeking treatment right away, you not only safeguard your health but also fortify your legal position. Additionally, early care, as noted can prevent minor injuries from developing into chronic issues, reducing the risk of long-term disability or pain. In Baltimore, where emergency services are efficient, it is vital to act quickly. Ultimately, immediate medical attention is a proactive step that ensures you receive necessary care, protects your physical well-being, and strengthens, or at least documents and preserves, your case for fair compensation. It is an investment in both your recovery and your future. Prompt care today secures a stronger tomorrow. Don’t give an insurance company another reason to question your claim.
Another mistake to avoid is neglecting to gather evidence at the scene. If you are physically able, try to take photos of the crash site, including the positions of the vehicles, any skid marks, and the surrounding area. Don’t forget to get the contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident occur. Their testimony can be invaluable in proving your case.
The cause of Baltimore car accidents is often hotly contested. Many people also make the mistake of admitting fault or apologizing at the scene of the accident. It’s important to remember that anything you say can be used against you later on. Instead, focus on checking for injuries and ensuring everyone’s safety. You should also avoid discussing the details of the accident with the other party involved.
In the days and weeks following a car accident, it’s can crucial to seek medical attention, even if you initially don’t think you’ve been seriously injured. Although I am not a doctor, decades of feedback from injured Baltimore motorists have convinced me that some injuries, such as whiplash or internal bleeding, may not present symptoms until later on. By seeing a doctor right away, you can help ensure that any injuries are properly documented.
Another mistake that can jeopardize your claim is failing to consult with a lawyer. A Baltimore, MD car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process. They can also help you gather the necessary evidence to support your claim and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages. We’ve discussed elsewhere some of the common costs and burdens with Baltimore motorcycle accidents.
It’s also important to be prudent and cautious when dealing with insurance companies. Many people later realize the mistake of accepting the first settlement offer they receive. This amount is often much lower than what they are entitled to. A lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and litigate the case to obtain the compensation you deserve.
Be mindful of the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim in your state. Waiting too long to take legal action can result in your claim being denied. In Maryland, this is three years.
- Baltimore Personal Injury Trial Lawyer Eric T. Kirk
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For over three decades, I have battled against the nation’s largest insurance companies, always endeavoring to ensure my clients receive the compensation they deserve. As lead counsel in thousands of cases across Maryland, New York, and Florida, I have recovered millions for clients whose claims were wrongfully denied and delayed. Whether denying fair compensation for a personal injury victim or denying benefits to a homeowner, Insurance companies employ policy exclusions, technicalities, and lowball offers to deny and defeat claims. They also hire very good lawyers to fight you in court. So should you. When an insurance company unfairly rejects a claim, I stop them.
