What Happens If You Are Partially At Fault for A Car Accident In Baltimore?
Car accidents in Baltimore are sudden, violent events and rarely unfold in a clear-cut manner. More than one person may have contributed to the crash, such as by driving too fast, failing to yield, or simply not paying attention.
Can you still get compensation in a collision if you are injured but partly to blame? Our experienced Maryland car accident lawyers explain how contributory negligence applies and steps you can take to protect your rights in a claim.
Contributory Negligence In Maryland: How It Can Impact Your Rights In A Baltimore Car Accident
In other states, you may be entitled to compensation for car accident injuries, regardless of whether you were partially at fault. However, Maryland follows a legal doctrine called contributory negligence. It can prevent you from receiving payment for property damages, personal injuries, and other costs if you were even somewhat to blame.
If you are in a car accident in Baltimore, remember that even seemingly minor lapses in judgment or driving mistakes can hurt your case. To protect your rights, get professional legal help right away.
How To Protect Your Rights After A Baltimore Car Accident, Especially If You Were Partly To Blame
When car accident injuries in Baltimore happen, it can leave you facing significant financial losses. You have the right to hold those at fault liable through insurers or by filing a car accident lawsuit through the Maryland court system.
However, Maryland’s contributory negligence rule applies in these cases and is strict. Local motorists need to be aware of how it can impact their ability to get compensation. To help protect your rights in a claim, follow these steps:
- Notify the police, exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers, and request a copy of the crash report.
- Document the scene by taking photos of road conditions, vehicle positions, property damage, and your injuries.
- Get witness contact info, particularly if they can support your version of events.
- Get medical care even if injuries appear minor and follow all doctor instructions.
- Avoid making statements at the scene and get legal help before speaking to insurers.
Partly At Fault For A Crash? Contact An Experienced Maryland Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you were involved in a Baltimore car accident and are worried about being partially to blame, contact Maryland Injury Lawyers. We protect your rights and fight to get you compensation, even if you are somewhat at fault. Reach out right away to request a consultation with our experienced Baltimore car accident lawyers.
Sources:
dls.maryland.gov/pubs/prod/CourtCrimCivil/Negligence-Systems.pdf
courts.state.md.us/district
