Unfortunately, accidents are a part of life in Maryland. According to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), about 100,000 accidents occur on the roadways every year. While most of them are minor crashes, some accidents can cause injuries that have long-term effects for the vehicle’s occupants. With financial costs and physical injuries, there can be a long road to recovery.
After any medical treatment, you may need assistance with a car accident injury claim. A personal injury lawyer could offer legal advice on how to pursue damages against the at-fault driver. From negotiating with the insurance company to presenting a case before the court, you may need the help of an experienced car accident legal team. Jezic & Moyse can help with these claims, including in Wheaton, MD.
Car Accident Causes
In some cases, accidents are just considered accidents. However, drivers need to be more mindful on the road. They have responsibilities designed to for keep themselves and others safe while behind the wheel. Unfortunately, in many cases, auto accidents are the result of driver negligence or irresponsibility. Some of the most common reasons for car accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Over the years, distracted driving has become more common. Drivers are texting, making phone calls, or fumbling with their cell phones. As a result, they take their eyes off the road and cause an accident. In that split second, the driver can easily rear-end another vehicle, run a stop sign, or lose control of the car.
- Driving while intoxicated: Alcohol and driving are a lethal mix. In all states, DUI laws were created to punish those who choose to get behind the wheel when intoxicated. Despite hefty fines and punishments, DUI accidents still occur on a regular basis. Many of these accidents happen at high speeds, and they can lead to severe or deadly consequences.
- Road rage: When driving on the road, it can be frustrating. However, some people take that frustration to the next level and experience road rage. These drivers are more aggressive, and their actions often lead to car accidents.
- Speeding: For those who drive at an excessive speed, they are putting everyone at risk. When that speeding occurs in a congested area, other drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians are in danger. Additional speed can result in a higher chance of serious accidents.
- Poorly maintained vehicles: You always want to drive a car in working condition. A poorly maintained vehicle is a road hazard. From failing brakes to tire blowouts, all these unmaintained components can be the cause of an accident. When you add speed, this is the recipe for a tragic accident.
- Driver fatigue: Studies have shown that driving while tired is as dangerous as drunk driving. A fatigued driver will pay less attention to other vehicles and have a slow reaction time. The driver can cause an accident by dozing off for a few seconds
Wheaton Common Car Accident Injuries
Car accident injuries range from minor scrapes to fatal wounds. Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in an accident. In some cases, the symptoms do not show up until days after the accident. However, some people experience pain or discomfort immediately after the crash. It can take weeks, months, or years for the injured party to recover fully.
Head injuries are another type of physical harm caused by a car accident. Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can be some of the most severe injuries from a crash. They often require immediate medical attention to prevent serious long-term issues. Untreated conditions range from vision problems to cognitive issues.
Car accident injuries affect the back and spinal area. Herniated discs can be caused by crashes. During the impact, the discs, located between bones in one’s spine, can slip out of their normal position and push against the nerves in the back or neck. A sudden blow to the spinal cord can cause it to swell up with fluid. Once again, a person may not feel the impact of the injuries until days after the accident.
The lower extremities are left vulnerable in a car. During an accident, the knees, hips, and ankles may be affected. A front-end collision can push the steering wheel, engine, and other components into the vehicle occupants and cause injuries. Without the proper medical assistance, the injured party might experience long-term issues. A car accident lawyer in Wheaton, MD, may be able to determine potential compensation for these injuries.
Recoverable Car Accident Costs
Without proper medical treatment, the victim might experience debilitating injuries. The injured party could be looking at years of rehabilitative care to recover after a car accident. With any severe injury from a car accident, there are usually high medical bills. Specialized treatment can quickly run up to thousands of dollars in costs.
At Jezic & Moyse, our legal team can help determine compensation for any physical pain and medical expenses. These experienced legal professionals understand Maryland civil law to help accident victims proceed with their claims. Some of these recoverable damages include:
- Lost income
- Future lost earning potential
- Hospital bills
- Medication costs
- Rehabilitation bills
- Future medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
If the other driver’s actions were egregious, the injured party might also be awarded punitive damages. An experienced car accident attorney in Wheaton, MD, might provide some assistance to build a personal injury case.
However, time is essential. According to Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 5-101, certain civil claims must be filed in court within three years from the date of the accident. There may be other critical and fast-moving deadlines that must be complied with. Depending on the particular accident situation, an injured party may be permanently excluded from certain compensation or benefits if claims are not appropriately made within the time deadlines.
Consult With a Car Accident Lawyer in Wheaton
Car accident injuries can change your life and decimate your finances. You may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault driver, especially if they were reckless and irresponsible. Any accident can put a strain on your financial and physical health. If you have suffered any of these injuries, you may want to speak to a skilled car accident attorney about filing a claim. Call to schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Jezic & Moyse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Car Accident Case?
While you aren’t required to hire a lawyer for your car accident case, it’s a wise idea to enlist the help of a knowledgeable Wheaton car accident attorney. Maryland laws about such accidents can be complex, and with the added strain of recovering from injuries, having their help can relieve stress during such a difficult time.
How Much is My Car Accident Claim Worth?
The value of your car accident claim varies based on factors specific to your case, such as the severity of your injuries and the likelihood of a full recovery. Our experienced Wheaton car accident lawyers will calculate a fair and meaningful amount to pursue based on your situation.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been Involved in a Car Accident?
If you were involved in a car accident, usually the first thing to do is call 911. If circumstances safely and reasonably allow, having photographs of the scene and vehicle(s) can be very valuable evidence. When help arrives, seek medical attention, even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, as the adrenaline may mask the pain or symptoms. Gather as much evidence as you reasonably and safely can, and if you’re able, then call a skilled Wheaton car accident attorney for help with the next steps.