Clinton, MD Auto Accident Attorneys
We’ll Fight for Your Case and a Fast Resolution
Car and other motor vehicle accidents claim thousands of lives and cause innumerable injuries each year. If you have been injured in a car accident or if a member of your family suffered a wrongful death in a vehicle wreck of any kind, you can trust the attorneys at Farmer & Klopfer to take on the insurance companies to ensure that you receive the financial compensation you deserve.
For over 37 years, our Clinton, MD car accident lawyers have secured life-changing compensation for clients with severe injuries. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges you face, and fight relentlessly to get you the resources you deserve.
Don't talk to the insurance company alone. Call us at (301) 265-2220 for a free consultation. We'll be your advocate throughout the entire claim process.
What To Do After A Car Accident
Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming and stressful, but knowing the right steps to take immediately afterward can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing your future.
Whether you're involved in a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, following a checklist can go a long way toward helping you get the help you need and protecting your rights. Here are a few of the critical steps you should take after an auto accident:
- Seek medical attention: Your health is the priority. Even if you don't feel hurt initially, see a doctor to get checked for injuries.
- Report the accident: File a police report to document the accident details. This is crucial evidence for your case.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Collect witness information and keep all accident-related documents.
- Contact an attorney: An experienced car accident lawyer can advise you of your rights and protect your interests throughout the claim process.
Do I Have To Report A Car Accident?
In Maryland, by law, you must report any accident that results in:
- Injury or death to any person
- Property damage exceeding $1,000
Determining Liability In MD Car Accident Cases
In Maryland, determining liability for a car accident falls under a legal concept called contributory negligence. This means that the amount of compensation you receive for your injuries may be reduced based on the percentage of fault you share for the accident.
How does contributory negligence work in Maryland car accident cases?
- The at-fault party is the driver whose actions (or inactions) primarily caused the accident. They are typically responsible for covering the damages of the other driver.
- Contributory negligence means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you're deemed 20% at fault for the accident and your total damages amount to $100,000, you would only receive $80,000 from the at-fault party's insurance company.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
How a car accident happened determines who may be liable for the resulting damages and losses. By recognizing patterns and behaviors that often lead to collisions, you can better assess the circumstances surrounding an accident and identify the negligent actions that may have contributed to the event.
This awareness not only aids in constructing a solid legal claim but also helps victims and their attorneys focus on specific evidence needed to establish fault. Ultimately, knowing these causes empowers accident victims to navigate the aftermath of crashes more effectively and secure the compensation they're entitled to.
Many factors can contribute to car accidents, such as:
- Distracted driving (cell phone use, texting)
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
- Drunk driving
- Drowsy driving
- Aggressive driving
- Adverse weather conditions
How To Build Your Accident Case
Building a strong auto accident case requires meticulous attention to detail and a comprehensive understanding of legal protocols. It begins with gathering all relevant evidence from the accident scene, including photographs, witness statements, and official police reports. Keeping detailed medical records and all communication with insurance companies is crucial, as these documents serve as the foundation of your claim.
Consulting an experienced personal injury attorney early in the process can streamline case management, ensuring that all legal deadlines are met and that your rights are zealously protected. Your lawyer will work to establish liability, calculate appropriate compensation, and effectively negotiate with insurers on your behalf. Understanding the steps involved in filing a lawsuit or reaching a settlement can significantly impact the outcome of your case and maximize the recovery of damages.
What Makes Strong Documentation in a Car Accident Case?
Robust documentation is pivotal in supporting your car accident claim and securing fair compensation. Thorough and accurate records not only help prove liability but also for demonstrate the extent of injuries and other damages incurred. This compelling evidence can counter disputes from at-fault parties or insurance companies.
Whether dealing with property damage, lost wages, or medical expenses, detailed documentation helps provide a clear picture of the accident's impact, strengthening your negotiating position. To effectively support your case, here's what you'll typically need:
- Police report: The officer's investigation and citations issued will be considered evidence.
- Witness statements: Testimonies from people who saw the accident can help establish fault.
- Traffic camera footage or dashcam video: Recordings can provide visual proof of what transpired.
- Accident scene photos: Images of the damage and debris location can show how the collision happened.
- Vehicle damage reports: The extent of damage to each car can be indicative of the impact sequence.
- Mobile phone data: If distracted driving is suspected, phone records might be examined.
- Medical records
- Proof of income (lost wages)
- Vehicle repair estimates
Common Car Accident Injuries
Understanding the types of injuries commonly associated with car accidents is crucial for victims seeking compensation. By gaining insight into these injuries, victims can better assess the severity of their situation and determine the appropriate steps to take in pursuing a legal claim. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their potential eligibility for compensation, thereby aiding in the recovery of damages. Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, including:
- Whiplash
- Back and neck injuries
- Soft tissue injuries (sprains, strains)
- Broken bones
- Head injuries (concussion, TBI)
- Amputation
- Wrongful death
Process For Filing A Car Accident Claim In MD
The car accident claim process involves the following:
- Initial consultation with an attorney
- Investigation of the accident
- Filing a claim with the at-fault party's insurance company
- Negotiation for a settlement
- Filing a lawsuit (if necessary)
How Long Do I Have To File A Car Accident Claim in MD?
The statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit in Maryland is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, it's important to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to preserve your rights.
Put Our Winning Team On Your Side. We Fight Insurance Companies And Win.
We provide aggressive representation regarding injuries in car accidents. We represent individuals in Waldorf; the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area; and all of southern Maryland.
Our Clinton Maryland car accident lawyers serve Washington D.C., Waldorf, La Plata, Leonardtown, Upper Marlboro, Clinton, Suitland, Greenbelt, Hyattsville, Bladensburg, Lanham, Landover, Oxon Hill, Bowie, Laurel, College Park, Largo, Fort Washington, Capitol Heights, Beltsville, New Carrollton, Forestville, Silver Spring, Rockville, Wheaton, Bethesda, Gaithersburg and Germantown, MD.
Call us at (301) 265-2220 or contact us for a free consultation about your case.
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“Thank you, Mr. Farmer, and may God bless you in your future endeavors.”
“You and your team have given my family our son back. No amount can adequately compensate for that gift! I can only hope our heart-felt thank-you and 'God bless you' will somehow offset the imbalance.”- Father of Defendant in Murder Trial -
“A family member was in a bad situation and they resolved it with ZERO drama.”
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“Truly cared about my case and how the accident affected me.”
“I have used James Farmer office for two accidents I have been in; both times they were exceptional.”- Ashley B. -
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James Farmer and his team exceeded all expectations! I had a very serious criminal case and his firm was recommended to me by a family member. I was incarcerated during this time and he and his associate Stephanie came to update me on multiple occasions on the progress of my case. They were not only professional but the amount of time and energy they put into my case showed me true dedication that goes far beyond a paycheck! They prepared for trial, but in the end was able to work out a plea deal that did not include any jail time. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney. I highly recommend Mr. Farmer and his team for any criminal case!- Previous Client -
“Kind, sympathetic, reassuring and more importantly, very knowledgeable”
I couldn’t be happier with the service I received from this law firm. I felt comfortable from the minute I first walked through the door. I had less than two weeks before the expiration of my personal injury filing date and was overwhelmed. My first appointment was with Elizabeth who took my huge stack of papers with a smile and said, “Let me take care of this for you.” Although all of the staff that I encountered were wonderful, my main experience was with Mr. Farmer and Elizabeth who were both kind, sympathetic, reassuring and more importantly, very knowledgeable. My case was handled professionally and in a timely fashion. My case was recently concluded and I am very happy with the outcome and would not hesitate to use them again or recommend them to my friends and family in the future. Need a good law firm, no need to look further.- Donna -
“A wise choice for anyone pursuing legal justice and/or a defense”
- Previous ClientMr. Farmer and his team were impressive through their work effort and detailed approach in every phase the Civil Court Personal Injury case. They also were responsive to any questions/concerns, supportive and communicated well through out the process. In the end, a satisfactory settlement was achieved. Mr. Farmer would be a wise choice for anyone pursuing legal justice and/or a defense.
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$1,800,000 $1,800,000 | Car Accident - 2022 -
$1,250,000 $1,250,000 | Car Accident, Confidential - 2022
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$966,000 $966,000 | Car Accident - 2019
HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS RECOVERED FOR OUR CLIENTS
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- $1,800,000 | Car Accident - 2022
- $1,250,000 | Car Accident, Confidential - 2022
- $966,000 | Car Accident - 2019