Harford County Car Accident Lawyers
Representing Injured Victims of Car Accidents in Harford County
Even with the technological advances being made in the automobile industry and the fact that cars are safer than ever, car accidents continue to occur across the country, fatally injuring thousands of passengers, and injuring millions more. Whether the wreck was the result of driver error or some other factor like inclement weather or unexpected road conditions, a car accident can turn a victim’s life upside down. Knowing the right steps to take following a car accident can significantly improve your chances of securing a fair settlement should you become injured.
Steps to Take Immediate Following a Car Accident
If you have not been seriously injured, and you are able to safely remove yourself from your vehicle, the following are a list of steps to take right after the accident occurs:
- Do not flee the scene. You must stay at the scene of the accident until help arrives. If you leave the scene of a wreck in which someone was seriously injured, you could face criminal charges.
- Check the condition of the other drivers. Make sure the other drivers are not hurt. If someone has been injured, call for help. Do not try to move someone who is unconscious or who appears to have a neck or back injury.
- Call the police. In most cases, a police officer will need to file an official report, of which you can obtain a copy for insurance purposes. Make sure to get the name and badge number of the police officer who was at the scene.
- Exchange information with others involved. Get names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information from all drivers involved in the car accident. Do not admit to any wrongdoing by apologizing, even if you are just trying to be friendly. It could later be used by the other driver as an admission of guilt.
- Speak to witnesses at the scene. Ask witnesses what they saw and get their contact information, including phone number and any other contact information they are willing to provide.
- Keep a record of any medical treatment. Be sure to keep records of all doctor appointments, physical therapists, chiropractors, psychologists, and any other treatment you may have received.
- Notify your insurance company. Tell your insurance company about the car accident as soon as possible. However, remember that anything you say can be used against you if you later decide to file a personal injury claim. Do not give any statements to an insurance adjuster before speaking to a qualified car accident lawyer.
Determining Who is at Fault
A number of things are considered when determining fault in a car accident case, including details in the police report, state traffic laws, and the type of car accident that took place. If the police officer on the scene issued a citation to one of the drivers, that person may be held liable. Rear-end collisions are almost always the fault of the driver who hit the other vehicle from behind. Many other factors are considered when determining fault, including the following:
- Auto defects
- Distracted driving
- Failure to obey traffic laws
- Speeding or driving below the posted speed limit
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Failing to use the proper signals when turning
- Ignoring poor weather or heavy traffic conditions
Types of Car Accidents
The following are some of the most common types of car accidents that occur on roads and highways across the country:
- Read-end collisions
- Side-impact collisions
- Sideswipe collisions
- Vehicle rollover
- Head-on collisions
- Single-car accidents
- Multi-vehicle collisions
- Hit and run accidents
Common Car Accident Injuries
The nature and severity of a car accident injury depends on the type of accident and other circumstances involved. The following are examples of some of the most common car accident injuries:
Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries
- Back injuries
- Neck injuries, including whiplash
- Chest injuries
- Leg and arm injuries
- Lacerations
- Facial injuries
- Psychological injuries
Harford County Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Handle All Types of Car Accident Cases
If you have been seriously injured in a car accident and are unsure about the next steps to take, contact the Harford County car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. Our dedicated, experienced team will guide you through the legal process, addressing all your questions and concerns along the way. We will work hard to obtain the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims in Maryland, including those in Harford County, which includes the municipalities of Aberdeen, Bel Air, and Havre de Grace.