Car accidents continue to be one of the biggest safety threats on US roadways, and statistics reveal the severity of the problem in Maryland. The Maryland Department of Transportation (MD DOT) reports that a total of 115,555 traffic collisions occur in the state every year. Of these, almost 33,400 are injury crashes that lead to more than 49,200 victims. Though the underlying reason for car accidents is driver negligence, there are many different causes and contributing factors that are associated with these incidents.
As you might expect, speeding is one of the top factors in many Maryland auto collisions. However, because many motorists admit to going over the speed limit on occasion, it is entirely possible that both the at-fault driver and an injured victim might have contributed to the crash. There are serious implications in such a case. A Glen Burnie car accident attorney will explain how the laws work. Speeding could have an effect, as you can see below.
Basic Traffic Crash Laws
Negligence is behind car accidents, and it is a theory of liability in the practice of law. To prove that you are entitled to compensation, you must show that the at-fault motorist breached the duty to drive safely. Complying with the posted speed limit is considered safe driving, so going beyond it could be evidence of negligence. The speeding driver would be liable to pay you damages. Other examples of negligence include:
- Failure to yield the right of way;
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol;
- Running through red lights and stop signs;
- Erratic lane changes; and,
- Distracted driving.
Contributory Negligence in Maryland
The assessment of liability does not end with the at-fault driver’s actions. The contributory negligence law in Maryland also reviews the actions of the victim. If this conduct was a factor, the victim is barred from recovering any damages. Because speeding could be considered negligence by the at-fault driver, it can also be negligent when the victim does not follow the law.
In addition, any of the negligent acts described above could be a bar to compensation when the victim does not drive safely.
Compensation for Auto Crash Victims
If you were not engaging in negligent acts behind the wheel, you may qualify to recover many types of damages for your losses. Note that you do still need to follow Maryland’s statute of limitations. This gives you three years to file a lawsuit for a car accident case.
Compensation may include:
- Medical costs for emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, and other medical services;
- Lost wages for time off work;
- Pain and suffering; and,
- Emotional distress.
Discuss Liability With a Baltimore County Car Accident Lawyer
Your rights could be impacted if you were speeding because of how the Maryland contributory negligence rule applies to your actions. To learn more about your claim and defend against such allegations against you, please contact Attorney Michael A. Freedman in Owings Mills or Glen Burnie, MD. You can call 410.363.6848 orvisit us online to schedule a free consultation.
