Maryland Car Accident Raises Questions About Personal Injury
A rush hour accident on the interstate in Maryland sent three people to the hospital and resulted in severe traffic delays, according to an article by The Baltimore Sun. The fallout from this accident has serious personal injury implications, particularly concerning the injured drivers and damaged cars.
At approximately 4 p.m. on August 17, 2017, a car attempted to take an exit off I-97 onto Route 50. The car failed to brake fast enough and collided with another vehicle. The force of the collision carried into a Maryland Transportation Authority police car.
All three drivers were treated for minor injuries at Anne Arundel Medical Center. Wreckage from the accident took a little longer to clear, closing off I-97 from Route 50 for several hours.
Overall, this accident resulted in injuries to three people and damage to three vehicles, including a police car. In such a situation, it is fair to wonder who will pay for the medical bills and vehicle repairs. As with most personal injury cases, the answer will depend upon a finding of negligence.
How does Maryland Define Negligence?
Maryland laws outline a four-part test for determining negligence. In order to prove a case of negligence against the person who caused an injury (defendant), the injured person (plaintiff) must satisfy four conditions.
- Duty: The plaintiff must show that the defendant had a “duty of care” to act reasonably under the circumstances.
- Breach: The plaintiff must show that the defendant breached the duty of care by acting in an unreasonable manner.
- Proximate Cause: The plaintiff must show that their injuries were a direct result of the defendant’s actions.
- Damages: The plaintiff must be able to demonstrate an approximate value for injuries and losses.
After proving all of the elements above, the plaintiff can recover compensation for injury or loss from the defendant. But the defendant may be able to avoid liability through legal defenses or contributory negligence.
What does Contributory Negligence Mean in Maryland?
Contributory negligence is a legal doctrine that considers whether the plaintiff played a role in their injury. If the plaintiff contributed to the injury at all, then contributory negligence prevents recovery the defendant. Stated otherwise, if the plaintiff was to blame for any part of an injury, then he or she will lose the case against the defendant.
Do You Need Legal Advice from an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney?
Whether you were involved in a traffic accident, slip and fall, or suffered other personal injury, the road to recovery can be painful and stressful. As the bills pile up for medical services and property repair or replacement, it can be a challenge to make ends meet. Thankfully an experienced personal injury attorney can make a real difference, helping you maximize your chance of success.
Featuring over 40 years of experience, Hassan, Hassan & Tuchman can help you figure out the best road to recovery. We will accurately appraise your property. We will also ensure consideration for your injuries, pain, suffering, lost wages, and medical bills. Overall, we operate on a contingent fee basis. Unless we win your personal injury claim, there is no fee.
If you have questions about personal injury, please feel free to contact Hassan, Hassan & Tuchman for a free consultation today. We are available 24/7/365 by phone at 410.669.5070 or online by filling out an electronic form.
