When you picture two vehicles smashing into each other head-on, you can imagine the kind of violent impact and devastating injuries that can result. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), frontal impacts account for 59% of passenger vehicle occupant deaths annually. Victims suffer debilitating losses, physically, emotionally, and financially.
You could qualify to seek compensation after a frontal impact collision, and a Baltimore County car accident attorney will fight to recover a fair amount. Some basics about the nature of head-on crash settlements in Maryland are also helpful.
Average Head-On Crash Settlement Amounts in Maryland
Frontal collision settlements vary significantly based on:
• The severity of injuries
• Fault determination
• Insurance policy limits
On average, settlements range from $50,000 to $500,000, but severe cases involving catastrophic injuries can exceed $1 million. However, you should note that Maryland follows a contributory negligence rule. Victims found even 1% at fault may be barred from recovering compensation, even if they can prove that the other driver was liable.
Types of Compensation Available for Head-On Crash Victims in Maryland
Victims of head-on collisions in Maryland may be eligible for several types of compensation. Economic damages cover:
• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Rehabilitation costs and pain medications
• Property damage
Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault driver. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts and may even try to place blame on you, so that they can avoid payment entirely under Maryland’s contributory negligence law.
Serious Injuries Increase Head-On Collision Settlement Values in Maryland
Settlement amounts are often higher in Maryland frontal impact crash cases because of the extreme, violent impact of two vehicles striking each other. Common serious injuries include:
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage
• Broken bones
• Internal organ injuries
• Permanent disabilities
Additionally, emotional trauma and reduced quality of life factor into compensation calculations. Victims with life-altering injuries may seek structured settlements or lump-sum payouts to cover extensive future medical and living expenses.
Why You Need a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer for a Head-On Crash Claim
Maryland’s strict contributory negligence law makes legal representation crucial for securing compensation in head-on crash claims. Insurance companies often dispute liability, attempting to shift blame onto the victim.
A skilled Maryland car accident lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate aggressively, and fight for maximum compensation. Attorneys also help calculate the true value of claims, ensuring that victims do not accept lowball settlement offers.
Contact a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer to Learn About Your Rights
This is a useful summary of compensation in frontal crashes, but getting legal guidance is critical. The Law Offices of Michael A. Freedman team has decades of experience helping Maryland accident victims pursue fair settlements for their injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a head-on collision, please visit us online or call 410.363.6848. We can schedule a free consultation at our offices in Owings Mills or Glen Burnie, MD.
