When life takes an unexpected turn and you’re involved in a car accident, navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming. From physical injuries and emotional trauma to dealing with insurance companies and mounting medical bills, the road to recovery can be daunting. This is why hiring an experienced car accident lawyer Maryland is not just a smart choice—it’s essential.
At Houlon Berman, our commitment is to help accident victims across the state of Maryland receive the compensation they rightfully deserve. This article provides an in-depth look into why hiring a car accident lawyer Maryland is critical, what steps to take after a crash, how to build a strong case, and what compensation you may be entitled to.
Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer in Maryland
1. Navigating Maryland’s Complex Legal System
Maryland is one of the few states that follows the contributory negligence rule. Under this law, if you are even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not be entitled to any compensation. This harsh rule makes it incredibly important to have a seasoned car accident lawyer Maryland on your side to defend your case and ensure that fault is properly established.
2. Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are profit-driven and often try to minimize payouts. A skilled car accident lawyer Maryland knows the tactics used by insurers and can counteract them to maximize your compensation. Whether it’s pressuring you into an early settlement or disputing your medical bills, your attorney will advocate aggressively on your behalf.
3. Understanding the True Value of Your Case
Your lawyer will help you calculate the full scope of damages, including:
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Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
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Lost wages and future earning capacity
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Pain and suffering
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Property damage
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Emotional distress
Without legal guidance, you may settle for far less than what your case is truly worth.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Maryland
Even before contacting a car accident lawyer Maryland, the steps you take immediately after the accident can significantly impact your case:
1. Call 911
Ensure everyone’s safety and call for emergency services. Request a police report as it will serve as official documentation of the accident.
2. Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos of:
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Vehicle damage
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License plates
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Injuries
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Road conditions and traffic signs
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Witnesses and their contact information
3. Seek Medical Attention
Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a healthcare professional. Some injuries like whiplash or internal bleeding may not show symptoms immediately.
4. Avoid Admitting Fault
Do not admit fault to the police, other drivers, or insurance companies. Leave that determination to the investigation and your car accident lawyer Maryland.
5. Contact Houlon Berman
As soon as possible, reach out to a trusted car accident lawyer Maryland at Houlon Berman. The earlier you involve legal counsel, the better your chances of preserving evidence and strengthening your case.
What Your Car Accident Lawyer in Maryland Will Do
1. Investigate the Accident
Your lawyer will collect all available evidence, including police reports, medical records, witness testimonies, video surveillance (if available), and accident reconstruction analysis.
2. Identify Liable Parties
Liability isn’t always limited to the other driver. Your car accident lawyer Maryland will explore the possibility of third-party liability, including:
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Vehicle manufacturers (for defective parts)
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Government entities (for unsafe road conditions)
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Commercial vehicle companies (if a commercial driver was involved)
3. File Claims and Handle Legal Documentation
Navigating Maryland’s strict legal timelines is critical. Your lawyer will ensure all paperwork is filed accurately and within deadlines, especially Maryland’s three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
4. Negotiate or Litigate
Most cases are resolved through negotiation. However, if a fair settlement is not offered, your car accident lawyer Maryland will be prepared to take your case to trial.
Types of Car Accident Cases We Handle at Houlon Berman
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Rear-end collisions
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Head-on collisions
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T-bone or side-impact crashes
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Rollover accidents
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Hit and run accidents
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Drunk driving accidents (DUI/DWI)
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Distracted driving accidents
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Uninsured or underinsured motorist claims
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Multi-vehicle pile-ups
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Pedestrian and bicycle accidents involving motor vehicles
Each type requires a different legal strategy, which our experienced team at Houlon Berman can provide.
Common Injuries in Maryland Car Accidents
Some of the most frequent injuries sustained in car accidents include:
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Whiplash
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Broken bones
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Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
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Spinal cord injuries
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Internal organ damage
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Burns
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Lacerations and bruising
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PTSD and emotional trauma
The severity of these injuries will greatly affect the value of your claim, which is why your car accident lawyer Maryland will work with medical experts to determine long-term care needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accident Claims in Maryland
How much does a car accident lawyer in Maryland cost?
At Houlon Berman, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
What if the at-fault driver is uninsured?
You may still recover compensation through your own uninsured motorist coverage. Our team will explore all avenues for recovery.
How long does it take to settle a car accident case?
While some claims settle in a few months, others can take over a year—especially if litigation is involved. We strive for swift, favorable resolutions without sacrificing results.
Can I still sue if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
Yes, though your failure to wear a seatbelt may be considered contributory negligence. Your car accident lawyer Maryland will fight to minimize its impact on your case.
Why Choose Houlon Berman as Your Car Accident Lawyer in Maryland?
We have decades of experience handling personal injury and auto accident claims in Maryland. Our law firm is known for:
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Aggressive legal representation
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Compassionate client service
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Extensive trial experience
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Millions recovered in settlements and verdicts
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Top-rated by clients and peers
Our local knowledge of Maryland courts, insurance practices, and accident trends gives us the upper hand in every case.
Areas We Serve Across Maryland
Our car accident lawyer Maryland team serves clients throughout the state, including:
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Rockville
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Bethesda
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Silver Spring
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Wheaton
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Gaithersburg
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Takoma Park
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College Park
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Hyattsville
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Greenbelt
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Prince George’s County
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Montgomery County
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Howard County
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And all surrounding areas
Take the First Step Toward Justice
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t face the legal and financial fallout alone. Contact the trusted car accident lawyer Maryland team at Houlon Berman today.
Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
📞 Call now or visit houlonberman.com to schedule your free consultation.
We’re here 24/7 to answer your call.