Traffic accidents continue to be a leading cause of death and disability throughout the US, but some geographically targeted data reveals the risk to motorists locally. The Maryland Department of Transportation (MD DOT) reports that around 530 people are killed in auto crashes every year, and almost 50,000 more suffer injuries in vehicle collisions. For victims and their families, the losses can be devastating. Not only is there the physical pain, but the financial and emotional consequences are considerable.
Maryland personal injury laws cover traffic crashes, providing you with legal remedies for recovering compensation. However, there may be different strategies to pursue depending on your circumstances. Your Owings Mills, MD car accident lawyer will advocate on your behalf throughout the process, but it is helpful to know the three ways to resolve a claim.
Settlement With Insurance Company
Because motorists are required by Maryland law to carry minimum auto insurance coverage, filing an insurance claim is the first step in the legal process. You will be required to fill out the necessary forms, but it will be necessary to include evidence to support your claim. The insurer will be focusing on:
- Who was at fault in the accident; and,
- The severity and nature of your injuries.
If the insurance company disagrees with your position on either of these points, your claim may be denied. Alternatively, the insurer might make a lowball counteroffer that is insufficient to cover your losses.
Mediation
In some auto accident matters, the parties will opt or be required to participate in this process to resolve the claim. During mediation, the parties sit down with a mediator who is specially trained in negotiation techniques. Each side will present their position and evidence, and the mediator works with the parties to try to get closer on settlement. There are a number of advantages to resolving your car accident claim through mediation:
- The process is often complete within a day, so you can receive compensation quickly if you settle.
- When you reach an agreement through mediation, there is more certainty and less risk compared to going to trial.
- Mediation is not binding. If dissatisfied with the outcome, you can still take your claim to court.
Litigation
Filing a lawsuit in court will be necessary if the insurer refuses to pay fair compensation via agreement or mediation. Through their lawyers, the parties will present motions, engage in discovery, and conduct depositions in preparation for trial. Both sides will present evidence and testimony in support of their respective claims, and a verdict in your favor could lead to an award of monetary damages.
Our Baltimore County, MD Auto Accident Attorneys are Ready to Help
Though the exact strategy may vary according to your situation, the objective is to ensure you receive fair compensation. You may be entitled to recover for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and many other losses. Please contact attorney Michael A. Freedman to learn the details regarding insurance claims, mediation, and litigation. You can set up a free consultation by calling 410.363.6848 or visiting us online.
