You were involved in an auto accident, and you sustained injuries. The accident was mostly the other driver’s fault, but you think you may have played a role in the accident itself. You may wonder, “Am I still entitled to compensation?” Please continue reading and contact an experienced Auto accident lawyer to learn what happens if you are partially responsible for a car accident in Maryland. Here are some of the questions you may have:
Am I entitled to compensation if I share fault in a Maryland car accident?
First and foremost, you should know that Maryland is what is known as an “at fault” state, meaning that drivers are allowed to sue another driver for compensation after a crash. However, there are certain insurance benefits that are not based on fault, which give drivers additional options to recover damages after a collision.
Unfortunately for those seeking compensation for wrongfully sustained injuries, Maryland is one of only five jurisdictions that applies another unpopular legal standard: contributory negligence. This hardline rule states that, if you contribute in any way to an accident, even as little as one percent, you are barred from collecting damages from the other driver.
Given the harshness of this rule, you should strongly consider retaining the services of a skilled Personal injury lawyer today to discuss the particulars of your case and tailor a strategy.
How is fault assessed in a Maryland car accident?
Though there is not a particular formula in place for calculating fault in car accidents in Maryland, there are certain factors they will consider when determining liability. Just some of those factors include whether a person was speeding at the time of an accident, disobeying traffic lights or signs, using their cell phone, what witnesses say about the accident, and even if the weather played a role in the accident.
As you can see, determining fault can be a subjective process, which is why it’s always best to proceed with a personal injury claim with a competent and knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in your corner. Our legal team is here to help prove your case and get you the compensation you need.
Contact our experienced Maryland firm
The Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz has decades of experience representing clients in Anne Arundel County and Howard County, Maryland who need legal assistance for criminal defense or personal injury matters. Contact the Law Offices of Debra A. Saltz today to discuss your case.
