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What to Do if You're a Maryland Automobile Injury Victim

Written by: Michael Joseph Schreyer

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Posted over 2 years ago. Applies to Maryland, 0 helpful votes, 0 comments

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Be Smart, Start off on the Right Track

In the turmoil that sometimes follows a car accident it can be difficult to sort through all of the details. But weeks or months after a traumatic injury, information can be hard to find. It helps to know some of the most important pieces of information that you will need if you are injured. - Witness information: Sometimes witnesses write their name, address and phone number on whatever is handy. Before the information gets lost, copy or tape it to a clearly labeled piece of paper, and place it in a large envelope or file. - Pictures: Photographs of the vehicles and scene can answer many questions. Put them in your file along with the negatives. - Accident Report: The report written by the investigating police officer is made available shortly after an accident, and can fill in some of the details that might be forgotten. -Medical Bills/Lost Income: Keep copies of all prescriptions, medical bills, and other expenses. You should keep your most recent IRS form W-2 in a file.

Work with Your Lawyer

Many injured people are unaware of whose side the insurance company is on. Advertisements created by the insurance industry suggest that these corporations exist to help the injured. Frequently, the opposite is true. In many cases the main goal of the insurance investigator is to prepare a case against the injury victim. When they are successful, the injury victim is left without a full remedy for the damages caused by the wrongdoer. In some cases injury victims are led to believe that they should take a quick settlement, before their treating doctor has had the opportunity to determine whether more treatment and tests will be needed. But a quick settlement can mean only a partial reimbursement of your losses. You can protect your interests by eliminating contact with the other insurance company and by completing treatment before your attorney starts negotiations.