Silver Spring, Maryland Car Accident Lawyers

What are the main causes of car accidents in Silver Spring?

Car accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, often involving a combination of human error, environmental conditions, and mechanical issues. Some of the main causes of car accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Using phones, eating, talking to passengers, or engaging in other activities that divert a driver’s attention from the road.
• Speeding: Driving above the posted speed limits or too fast for the road and weather conditions, reducing reaction time and increasing the severity of collisions.
• Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, impairing judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
• Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, or disregarding traffic signals and signs.
• Fatigue: Driving while drowsy or exhausted, which can lead to decreased alertness and slower reaction times.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather like rain, snow, ice, fog, and heavy wind can reduce visibility and road traction, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
• Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Disobeying traffic signals or signs, leading to intersection collisions.
• Tailgating: Following other vehicles too closely, reducing reaction time and increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, uneven road surfaces, and lack of proper signage can lead to accidents.
• Mechanical Failures: Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues can cause loss of vehicle control.
• Improper Lane Changes and Merging: Not signaling properly or failing to yield the right-of-way during lane changes or merges.
• Animals on the Road: Collisions with animals, such as deer, can occur, especially in rural areas.

It’s important to note that the causes of car accidents can vary based on individual circumstances and local factors. Practicing safe driving habits, staying attentive, and obeying traffic laws can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

What are some common injuries from car accidents?

In 2021, there were over 100,000 car crashes in the state of Maryland. About 500 of those crashes were fatal, 28,000 caused injuries, and 80,000 caused property damage. Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, varying in severity based on factors like the speed of impact, the angle of collision, the use of seat belts, airbags, and the overall health of the individuals involved. Here are some common types of car accident injuries:

• Whiplash: A sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck, often caused by rear-end collisions, can result in soft tissue injuries, neck pain, and limited mobility.
• Back and Spinal Cord Injuries: These can range from strains and sprains to more severe injuries like herniated discs and spinal cord damage, which can lead to paralysis.
• Head Injuries and Concussions: Impact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or window can cause head injuries, from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
• Bone Fractures: Broken bones are common in car accidents, including fractures of the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis.
• Internal Injuries: Forceful impact can damage internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, and other organs in the abdominal area.
• Facial Injuries: These can range from minor cuts and bruises to fractures of the facial bones, often due to airbag deployment.
• Burn Injuries: Burns can result from contact with hot surfaces, friction during accidents, or even airbag deployment.
• Emotional and Psychological Trauma: The emotional impact of a car accident can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Soft Tissue Injuries: These involve damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
• Cuts and Abrasions: Broken glass, debris, and vehicle parts can cause cuts and scrapes.

It’s important to note that some injuries may not show symptoms immediately after the accident, which is why seeking medical attention and a thorough evaluation is essential even if you don’t feel injured right away. Additionally, the severity of injuries can vary widely, and proper medical care and follow-up are crucial for a complete recovery.

What should you do after a car accident in Silver Spring?

After a car accident, taking the right steps is crucial to ensure your safety, well-being, and legal protection. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do:

• Check for Injuries: First, assess yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, call for medical help immediately.
• Move to Safety: If possible and without putting yourself at risk, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic.
• Call the Authorities: Dial the local police to report the accident, even if it’s a minor one. Having an official police report can be essential for insurance claims and legal matters.
• Exchange Information: Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with the other parties involved. This should include names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance policy numbers, and license plate numbers.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and any road signs or conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
• Get Witness Statements: If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and statements about what they saw. Their accounts can help support your version of events.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide accurate and complete information about the incident.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s advisable to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries might not show immediate symptoms.
• Keep Records: Document all medical treatments, expenses, and any effects the accident has on your physical and mental well-being. These records can be useful for insurance claims or legal proceedings.
• Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Stick to factual information when discussing the accident.
• Gather Accident Report: Obtain a copy of the police accident report for your records.

Remember, each situation is unique, and these steps may need to be adjusted based on the circumstances. Prioritizing safety, seeking medical attention, and properly documenting the incident will help protect your interests after a car accident.

What types of damages can I recover for my car accident in Silver Spring?

In a car accident claim, you may be eligible to recover various types of damages, which are financial compensation intended to help you recover from the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of the accident. The specific damages you can recover will depend on the circumstances of the accident, the extent of your injuries, and the laws in your jurisdiction. Here are the common types of damages you might be able to recover:

• Medical Expenses:
  • Past and future medical bills related to the accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and therapy.
• Lost Wages:
  • Compensation for the income you lost due to your injuries, including missed workdays, reduced work hours, and potential future earning capacity.
• Property Damage:
  • Repair or replacement costs for your damaged vehicle and any personal property that was damaged in the accident, such as electronics or personal items.
• Pain and Suffering:
  • Non-economic damages for physical pain, emotional distress, and psychological trauma caused by the accident and your injuries.
• Emotional Distress:
  • Compensation for emotional suffering, anxiety, depression, and other emotional consequences resulting from the accident.
• Wrongful Death Damages:
  • If a loved one dies as a result of a car accident, their surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.

It’s important to note that the availability and limits of these damages may vary based on your jurisdiction’s laws and the specific circumstances of your case. Consulting with a personal injury attorney who specializes in car accidents can help you understand the types of damages you might be eligible to recover and guide you through the process of pursuing fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

What is the statute of limitations in Maryland?

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including car accident cases, is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means that you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in court seeking compensation for your injuries and damages. However, it’s important to note that there can be exceptions and variations in the statute of limitations depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Because the statute of limitations and its exceptions can be complex, it’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a car accident. An attorney can help you understand the specific deadlines that apply to your case and ensure that you take the appropriate legal actions within the required timeframe to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.

Why Should I Choose Regan Zambri Long?

If you are considering filing a legal claim for personal injuries, one of the many experienced lawyers on our team can help. Hiring a lawyer for a car accident can provide numerous benefits, especially if you’ve been injured or incurred significant damages as a result of the accident. Car accident cases involve complex legal processes, rules, and regulations. An experienced lawyer understands the legal intricacies and can navigate them on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected. A skilled lawyer knows how to accurately calculate your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. They will work to ensure you receive fair and full compensation.

At Regan, we know that we can reach the settlement you deserve. Our car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if you win your case, taking a percentage of the settlement or court award. This arrangement ensures that they are motivated to secure the best outcome for you. Call Regan Zambri Long today or contact us online for a free case evaluation.