How Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Laws Affect Your Baltimore Injury Claim
After a car crash, slip and fall, or other personal injury in Baltimore, one of the most pressing concerns victims face is how they will cover their losses. Medical care, lost earnings, and other costs can quickly add up, and Maryland law has stringent rules about fault in personal injury cases.
Injured victims and their families are often surprised to learn that even being slightly at fault for an accident could bar them from getting compensation. Understanding how Maryland’s contributory negligence rules apply is essential if you get injured. Our Maryland personal injury lawyers explain how state laws impact your case and help protect your right to compensation.
How Insurers Use The Strict Negligence Standard To Deny Baltimore Personal Injury Claims
When it comes to getting compensation for personal injuries, many states follow the rule of comparative negligence. While you may be entitled to compensation, the amount can be reduced if you are determined to be even partially at fault.
In contrast, Maryland follows the rule of contributory negligence, one of the strictest liability standards in the country. If you are determined to be even one percent at fault, it could prevent you from getting any compensation. Common ways insurance companies use Maryland’s contributory negligence laws to deny personal injury claims include:
- Saying you engaged in behavior that was directly responsible for your accident;
- Denying liability by pointing to others involved;
- Using statements you make at the scene to show you were at least partially at fault;
- Claiming your own actions increased the severity of your injuries.
Filing A Personal Injury Claim Under Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Because of the state’s strict contributory negligence standard, insurance companies often use it to deny or undervalue Baltimore personal injury claims. To protect your rights, take these steps when accidents happen:
- Notify the police right away and make sure they complete an accident report.
- Avoid speculating on the causes at the scene or admitting even partial liability.
- Gather evidence, including contact information for everyone involved, including witnesses, and photos or videos from the scene.
- Get medical care as soon as possible, let your doctor know how your injuries happened, and keep copies of all medical records.
- Speak with an experienced Maryland personal injury lawyer before making recorded statements to insurers, signing any documents, or accepting a settlement.
To Get The Compensation You Are Entitled To In A Claim, Speak With Our Experienced Maryland Personal Injury Lawyers
If you get injured in an accident, it is essential to know how Maryland’s contributory negligence rule applies and how it can impact your rights to compensation. At Maryland Injury Lawyers, we can investigate your case, gather evidence to counter blame-shifting arguments, and fight for the maximum settlement.
Getting professional legal help right away can make the difference between walking away empty-handed and getting the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact our office and request a consultation today with our experienced Maryland personal injury lawyers.
Sources:
mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite
dls.maryland.gov/pubs/prod/CourtCrimCivil/Negligence-Systems.pdf
