A car accident can happen when you least expect it. If you are hurt in a car crash that is not your fault, you do not have to deal with the resulting economic and non-economic damages on your own. Maryland laws allow you to file a personal injury claim against the liable party.
However, personal injury claims, like other legal matters, are governed by specific statutes. And understanding these statutes can help you avoid costly missteps and ensure that you get justice.
Here are two important laws that you need to understand when filing a personal injury claim in Maryland:
The state’s negligence laws
Maryland is one of the few states that apply the doctrine of contributory negligence when determining fault. Under the contributory negligence statute, you may be barred from seeking damages if it is established that you contributed to the accident in any way.
This underpins the importance of putting together strong evidence before heading to court. Some of the evidence you may need for your personal injury claim include the police report, witness statements, your medical records and photographs and videos of the accident scene.
The state’s statute of limitations
A car accident can throw your life off balance. However, do keep in mind that your personal injury case begins the moment you are involved in the crash. Per Maryland laws, you have up to three years from the accident that resulted in your injuries to file your claim. Rarely is this statute of limitations period extended (tolled). Thus, it is in your best interest that you act within the statute of limitations period.
A car accident can turn your life upside down. If you intend to pursue the liable party for damages, then it is important that you understand how the law works.
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