Top Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Maryland By A Maryland Car Accident Lawyer

While car accidents are common, don’t make the mistake of thinking that the claim process will be straightforward. There are several mistakes that people make that undermine the value of their claim. If you have been injured in a car accident, working with an experienced Maryland car accident lawyer is the best option for maximizing whatever compensation you may be entitled to.

Do Not Admit Fault, Even a Little Bit

One of the biggest mistakes drivers make is admitting they were at fault to some degree. Statements such as “I wasn’t really paying attention” or “I know I was speeding” can do irreparable damage to your claim, even if the rest of that sentence clearly states why the other driver should be held responsible.

One reason for this is that Maryland is a contributory negligence state. This means that if your own negligence contributed to the accident to any degree, you could be barred from receiving any compensation. Another reason is that it suddenly calls liability into question. Ultimately, liability should be determined only after a thorough investigation of the accident and a careful review of the facts. As a result, do not offer any opinion as to liability and do not admit any responsibility on your own part to any degree.

Talking to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Without a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer

Similar to when you are charged with a crime, anything you say to the insurance company may later be used against you. Adjusters and other representatives will put you at ease and ask seemingly harmless questions designed to get you to admit liability or make other statements that can undermine your claim. For example, they may want to know if you are injured. Saying something along the lines of “I don’t think so” can be used against you if injuries later manifest themselves.

If you must speak to them, limit your statements to the basic facts, such as when and where the accident occurred. Do not discuss liability. If they ask about injuries, tell them that you are under the care of a physician and the extent of your injuries is not yet known. Ideally, however, you should not talk to them at all without first talking to a Maryland car accident lawyer.

Accepting a Settlement Offer Without Discussing It with a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer

A common insurance company tactic is to offer a quick settlement of your claim, often within days of your accident. The problem is that the offer may not cover all of your medical expenses and other losses. By accepting the check, you agree to waive any additional or future claims. If the insurance company offers to send you a check, we recommend you discuss your case with a lawyer before accepting.

Injured in a Car Accident? Talk to a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer Today

At Timothy A. Dachille and Associates, we know how to navigate the insurance claim process so that our clients can get the compensation they deserve. Call or email us today to speak with a Maryland car accident lawyer who will protect your best interests.