Your safety comes first. If you can do so safely, move out of traffic and check for injuries. Call 911 — in Maryland, you must report crashes involving injury, death, or significant property damage. A police report creates an official record that is valuable to your claim.
At the Scene
If you are able, photograph everything: vehicle positions, damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, and your visible injuries. Get the other driver's name, license, insurance, and contact information, and collect names and numbers of any witnesses.
Be Careful What You Say
Because Maryland follows pure contributory negligence, anything that hints you were partly at fault can be used to deny your claim entirely. Do not apologize or speculate about fault at the scene, and stick to factual information when speaking with police.
Later, the other driver's insurer may call seeking a recorded statement. You are not required to give one, and it is usually wise to consult an attorney first.
Get Medical Care Promptly
See a doctor even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask injuries, and conditions like whiplash, concussions, and internal injuries may not show symptoms for hours or days. Prompt medical care protects your health and links your injuries to the crash.
Follow your treatment plan and keep all records. Gaps in treatment give insurers an argument that your injuries were not serious or were caused by something else.
Protect Your Legal Rights
Maryland's three-year statute of limitations applies to most car accident claims, but evidence disappears quickly. Notify your own insurer, but be cautious about giving the other side any statements.
A free case review can help you understand your rights, the value of your claim, and the deadlines that apply. Our network attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless they win.
Have questions about your own situation? Get a free, confidential case review. You pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Maryland attorney.