Car accidents are among the most disruptive events a person can experience. In just seconds, a routine drive can turn into a life-altering ordeal with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial losses. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Maryland, you may be entitled to compensation—but obtaining it is rarely simple. Insurance companies will fight to protect their bottom line, and Maryland’s strict legal rules can make recovering damages difficult.
That’s why working with an experienced Maryland car accident lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take after a crash. At Houlon Berman, we have built a reputation for protecting victims, standing up to insurance companies, and pursuing maximum compensation under the law.
Why Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Is Essential
1. Insurance Companies Protect Their Interests, Not Yours
Insurers may appear sympathetic, but their true priority is minimizing payouts. They may delay claims, dispute liability, or offer low settlements that fail to cover your long-term needs. A lawyer ensures you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
2. Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Maryland is one of only a handful of states that follow the contributory negligence doctrine. This means that if you are found even 1% at fault, you could lose the right to compensation. Having a skilled attorney who knows how to prove liability can make the difference between winning and losing your case.
3. Complex Medical and Financial Recovery
Car accidents can lead to lasting injuries, requiring physical therapy, surgeries, or lifelong treatment. A lawyer works with medical experts and financial specialists to calculate the full scope of your damages—not just immediate expenses, but future costs as well.
The Hidden Impact of Car Accidents
The consequences of an accident extend far beyond a damaged vehicle or hospital bills. Victims may struggle with:
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Lost wages from missed work
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Reduced earning capacity due to lasting injuries
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Emotional trauma such as anxiety or PTSD
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Chronic pain that affects daily life
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Family strain from caregiving responsibilities
A strong legal claim doesn’t just address today’s costs—it protects your long-term well-being.
Maryland Laws Every Car Accident Victim Should Know
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Statute of Limitations: You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
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Minimum Insurance Requirements: Maryland requires drivers to carry liability insurance, but many policies are insufficient for serious injuries. Attorneys explore additional sources of recovery, including uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
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Comparative Fault Is Not an Option: Unlike states with comparative negligence, Maryland’s contributory negligence rule sets an extremely high bar for victims. This makes legal representation essential.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Maryland
Car crashes can occur for many reasons, but some patterns are clear:
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Distracted driving (phones, GPS, eating)
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Speeding and reckless driving
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Drunk or impaired driving
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Dangerous road conditions (ice, rain, poor lighting)
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Vehicle defects such as faulty brakes or tires
Your attorney will investigate to determine fault and hold the responsible party accountable.
What To Do After a Car Accident
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Call 911 and ensure police document the crash.
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Seek immediate medical care, even if you feel fine.
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Gather evidence, including photos and witness contacts.
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Notify your insurance company without admitting fault.
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Contact a Maryland car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
The earlier you involve a lawyer, the stronger your case will be.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims may be entitled to economic and non-economic damages, including:
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Medical expenses (current and future)
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Lost income and diminished earning capacity
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Property damage repairs
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Pain and suffering
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Emotional distress
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Loss of companionship or consortium
In cases of extreme negligence, courts may also award punitive damages.
Why Choose Houlon Berman?
With decades of legal experience and a proven record in personal injury law, our attorneys know how to navigate Maryland’s complex rules. We approach every case with:
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Aggressive advocacy against insurers
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Thorough investigation using expert witnesses
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Compassionate client care during a difficult time
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Contingency fee structure—you pay nothing unless we win
For a complete look at our legal services beyond car accidents, explore our Practice Areas page.
The Connection Between Car Accidents and Personal Injury Law
Car accidents fall under the broader category of personal injury law, which covers incidents where negligence causes harm. From slip-and-fall cases to wrongful death, the principles are similar: proving negligence, establishing damages, and securing fair compensation.
If you want to understand how car accident cases fit into the larger picture of injury claims, visit our Personal Injury Law section.
Local Representation Matters
Every jurisdiction has unique court systems and local laws. At Houlon Berman, our lawyers know the local judges, insurance adjusters, and court procedures across Maryland counties.
If your accident occurred in Prince George’s County, our dedicated Prince George’s County Car Accident Lawyer services provide focused support for local cases.
Building a Strong Case
A winning claim requires more than just telling your story. Attorneys gather and present evidence such as:
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Police accident reports
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Medical records and expert testimony
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Witness statements
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Traffic camera or surveillance footage
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Accident reconstruction reports
By assembling a compelling case, your lawyer strengthens your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long do I have to file a lawsuit after a car accident in Maryland?
You generally have three years, but filing early helps preserve evidence.
Q2: What if I was partially responsible for the crash?
Maryland’s strict contributory negligence law means you may be barred from recovery if even 1% at fault. Skilled legal representation is critical.
Q3: How much compensation can I expect?
There’s no universal amount—it depends on your injuries, losses, and the evidence presented.
Q4: Will I have to go to court?
Many cases settle, but we prepare every claim as if it will go to trial to maximize leverage.
Q5: What does it cost to hire a lawyer?
We work on a contingency basis—you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you.
A car accident can turn your life upside down, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our Maryland car accident lawyers at Houlon Berman are here to protect your rights, stand up to insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free case evaluation and take the first step toward justice.