Sometimes, accidents happen and people are injured or killed as a result. Under the laws in Maryland and Washington D.C., a victim of an accident can receive financial compensation for his or her injuries or a survivor can receive compensation from the responsible party who engaged in a negligent act. However, oftentimes there is confusion and fear that follows such injuries. People who suffer such trauma not only are physically and emotionally harmed, they are susceptible to the scare tactics of insurance companies and big businesses. Insurance companies have been successful in making it seem that victims of personal injury resulting from accidents only want money.
Fortunately, there is help available to navigate the myriad of problems with such claims and our firm has the experience and the resources to get victims and their families what they rightly deserve. Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys is ready and willing to represent injured victims and their families to get the most compensation possible under the law.
Personal Injury in Maryland and Washington D.C.
Personal injury victims and their families ought to be aware of the many laws in Maryland and D.C. regarding negligent acts. There are damage caps, as well as several qualifiers in order to be eligible to file a claim against a negligent party, regardless if it’s an individual, corporation, or government agency. Though victims and their families do have rights under Maryland and D.C. laws, there can be many obstacles to overcome and an experienced attorney can help when it counts most.
For more information about personal injury laws in MD and DC:
Fighting for the Rights of Personal Injury Victims and Their Families
Our firm is experienced and has successfully represented many victims and their families in personal injury cases. In such cases, victims and their families need a legal representative with a proven track record for representing victims of accidents or negligent acts or risk losing their ability to get the most compensation due to them under the law.
Types of Personal Injury
In both the state of Maryland and the District of Columbia, there are a number of recognized types of personal injury. These cases range from relatively minor to very serious and can result in back and neck pain, loss of limbs, or death. Our firm is able to represent victims and their families in many types of personal injury cases, which include, but are not limited to:
- Auto accidents
- Boating accidents
- Burn accidents
- Commercial vehicle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Construction accidents
- Government employee and equipment related accidents
- Store accidents
- Drunk driving accidents
- Distracted driver accidents
- Uninsured motorists accidents
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Catastrophic injury accidents
- Wrongful death accidents
- Fatal car accidents
- Amounts of Compensation
Damages in Personal Injury Claims
Maryland and D.C. have certain laws pertaining to damages and generally classifies them in three different ways, which can affect the amount of money victims and their families can receive from a personal injury claim. Here are the three categories of damages in personal injury cases:
Economic Damages
These damages are easy to calculate and are given to compensate a victim and/or their family for things such as medical expenses, past and future lost wages, and other general “real” expenses which have a definable amount.
Non-Economic Damages
Unlike economic damages, non-economic damages are things which are difficult to quantify, and do not have a demonstrable price. Such damages are things like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of the quality of life.
Physical Disfigurement and Impairment Damages
Damages falling under physical disfigurement and impairment, are the consequences and costs of irreparable physical harm or permanent disability. Arriving at a figure can be quite difficult to determine in such instances and compensation ranges greatly.
These damages are often downplayed by insurance companies, corporations, and governmental agencies. Victims and families of personal injury cases can easily be bullied by such entities and might not receive any or as much compensation that is deserved. Not only do personal injury victims and their families face a time limit to file a claim, shared liability risks, and damage caps, they also face the powerful resources of insurance companies, corporations, and governmental agencies.
Only an experienced attorney who has successfully won cases for personal injury victims and their families can effectively represent someone who has sustained injury or lost a loved one.
Challenges When Pursuing Personal Injury Claims
Pursuing a personal injury claim in Maryland or Washington D.C. can be a complex and daunting process. Victims and their families often face numerous challenges that can hinder their ability to receive fair compensation. Understanding these obstacles is crucial to navigating the legal landscape effectively. Some common challenges include:
- Statute of Limitations: There is a limited time frame within which a personal injury claim must be filed. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to seek compensation.
- Proving Liability: Establishing that the other party was at fault requires substantial evidence and a clear demonstration of negligence.
- Contributory Negligence Laws: Both Maryland and D.C. follow strict contributory negligence rules, meaning if the victim is found even slightly at fault, they may be barred from recovering any damages.
- Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters often employ tactics to minimize payouts, including quick low-ball settlement offers and challenging the severity of injuries.
- Calculating Fair Compensation: Accurately assessing both economic and non-economic damages can be complex, especially when future expenses and intangible losses are involved.
- Gathering Evidence: Collecting necessary documentation, witness statements, and expert testimonies can be time-consuming and requires legal expertise.
- Emotional and Physical Stress: The aftermath of an injury can be overwhelming, and the added pressure of a legal battle can exacerbate stress levels.
- Legal Complexities: Navigating the legal system without professional assistance can lead to mistakes that may adversely affect the outcome of the claim.
Steps to Have a Successful Personal Injury Claim
While the challenges are significant, taking the right steps can greatly enhance the likelihood of a successful personal injury claim. Here are some crucial actions to consider:
Step 1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Prioritizing health is crucial after an accident. Obtaining prompt medical care ensures that injuries are properly diagnosed and treated, which can prevent complications later on. Medical records from this initial visit serve as vital evidence, documenting the extent of injuries directly resulting from the incident. Delaying treatment can not only jeopardize health but also weaken the credibility of the claim.
Step 2: Document Everything Thoroughly
Keeping detailed records is essential for building a strong case. Take photographs of the accident scene, injuries, and any property damage to provide visual evidence. Maintain a journal describing physical pain, emotional distress, and daily limitations caused by the injuries. Collect contact information of witnesses who can corroborate the events. This comprehensive documentation can significantly support the claim during negotiations or in court.
Step 3: Report the Incident to Relevant Authorities
Officially reporting the accident creates an objective account of what occurred. For automobile accidents, file a police report immediately to ensure an official record is made. In cases involving property or workplace accidents, notify the property owner or employer as required. These reports often include critical details and can prevent disputes about the facts later in the process.
Step 4: Consult with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Engaging a skilled attorney early in the process can greatly enhance the chances of a successful claim. An attorney can provide legal guidance, handle communications with insurance companies, and advocate on behalf of the victim. Their knowledge ensures that all legal deadlines are met and that the case is presented effectively.
Step 5: Preserve All Physical Evidence
Safeguarding physical evidence strengthens the authenticity of the claim. Keep any damaged personal items, vehicles, or equipment involved in the accident. This tangible proof can be compelling in demonstrating the severity of the incident and the resulting injuries, making it harder for opposing parties to dispute the facts.
Step 6: Refrain from Discussing the Case Without Legal Counsel
Communications with insurance adjusters or representatives of the opposing party should be handled carefully. Avoid providing statements or signing documents without consulting an attorney. Misstatements or misunderstandings can be used to undermine the claim or diminish potential compensation, so it’s important to let legal professionals manage these interactions.
Step 7: Adhere Strictly to Medical Advice
Following the treatment plan prescribed by healthcare providers is important for recovery and for the legal case. Attend all medical appointments, therapy sessions, and follow-up visits diligently. Failure to comply with medical advice can be interpreted as a sign that injuries are not as severe as claimed, potentially weakening the case.
Step 8: Keep Detailed Records of All Expenses and Losses
Document all financial impacts resulting from the accident. This includes medical bills, prescription costs, transportation expenses to medical appointments, and lost wages due to inability to work. Accurate records help in calculating the full extent of economic damages for which compensation is sought, ensuring that no losses are overlooked.
Step 9: Exercise Caution with Social Media Use
Be mindful of online activity during the claims process. Avoid posting about the accident, injuries, or activities that could be misconstrued. Insurance companies may monitor social media accounts to find evidence that contradicts the victim’s claims, potentially harming the case. Maintaining privacy settings and refraining from oversharing can protect the integrity of the claim.
Successfully pursuing a personal injury claim involves careful planning, thorough documentation, and professional legal assistance. By following these steps, victims can effectively assert their rights and work towards obtaining the maximum compensation allowed under the law. Remember, you don’t have to face this challenging time alone—our dedicated legal team is available to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Us today for a free consultation.