Upper Marlboro Personal Injury Attorneys

Representing Injury Victims Throughout the State of Maryland

Farmer & Klopfer has served Upper Marlboro and the surrounding area for over 40 years. We pride ourselves on our firm’s commitment to top-tier legal advocacy. Our dedication goes beyond the courtroom as we engage actively in our community, hosting informational webinars and participating in local events to educate residents about their legal rights.

When a person in need of representation chooses our legal team, they’ll receive individualized assistance from the start with our free initial consultations. From there, our clients will have a competent team of attorneys on their side throughout their case. We believe in building a strong relationship with each client, ensuring that they feel supported and informed at every step. Our comprehensive approach to legal service includes ongoing updates and personal attention to address any client concerns promptly.

During our decades of practicing personal injury law, we’ve recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. Our team is recognized by several national professional organizations. Our managing partner, Attorney James E. Farmer, has been honored by the National Trial Lawyers as a Top 100 attorney in the categories of Civil Plaintiff and Criminal Defense. These recognitions underscore our commitment to excellence and our ability to handle even the most challenging circumstances with skill and determination.

With Farmer & Klopfer, you’ll enjoy the benefits of:

Personal Injury Cases We Handle

Our firm handles a wide range of personal injury cases. Whatever your needs are, we’ll address your situation with the devoted support and legal acumen our firm is known for. Our team is constantly staying abreast of new developments in personal injury law to ensure our strategies are up-to-date and effective.

We take on cases such as:

Compensation Available in Personal Injury Claims

In Maryland, personal injury victims may be entitled to several types of compensation, also known as damages, depending on the severity of the injury and the circumstances of the case. These damages are generally divided into three main categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages compensate for quantifiable financial losses that result from the injury. These damages aim to restore the victim to the financial position they were in before the injury.

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for current and future medical costs related to the injury, including hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, physical therapy, prescription medications, and assistive devices (such as wheelchairs or prosthetics).
• Lost Wages: If the victim is unable to work due to the injury, they can recover lost income for the period they were unable to earn wages.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: If the injury affects the victim’s ability to work in the future or reduces their earning potential, they may be entitled to compensation for diminished earning capacity.
• Property Damage: If the injury resulted from an accident that damaged personal property (such as a vehicle), compensation may cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Costs related to the injury, such as transportation to medical appointments, modifications to the home, and other necessary expenses, may also be reimbursed.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages compensate for the subjective, non-monetary losses suffered by the victim. These damages are more difficult to quantify but are just as significant.

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, discomfort, and distress experienced due to the injury.
• Emotional Distress: Damages for the psychological impact of the injury, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other emotional effects.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injury prevents the victim from engaging in activities they once enjoyed or limits their ability to participate in hobbies or social activities, compensation may be awarded.
• Loss of Consortium: In cases where the victim’s injury affects their relationship with their spouse or family, damages may be awarded for the loss of companionship, affection, and intimacy.

Cap on Non-Economic Damages in Maryland

Maryland imposes a cap on non-economic damages in personal injury cases. As of 2025, the cap is $935,000 for most personal injury claims. This cap increases annually by $15,000 and applies to all non-economic damages combined.

Punitive Damages

In Maryland, punitive damages require a showing of actual malice, meaning the defendant acted with evil intent, deliberate wrongdoing, or a conscious disregard for the safety of others. This standard is higher than simple negligence. Punitive damages are rare and are intended to punish the defendant for particularly egregious or malicious conduct and to deter similar behavior in the future.

Wrongful Death and Survival Action Damages

If a personal injury results in death, surviving family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit or a survival action to seek compensation. These damages can include:

• Funeral and Burial Expenses: Reasonable costs associated with the victim’s funeral and burial.
• Loss of Financial Support: Compensation for the income and financial contributions the deceased would have provided to their family.
• Loss of Consortium and Companionship: Damages for the emotional loss suffered by the deceased’s spouse, children, or dependents.

FAQs on Injury Law & Representation

How do I prove negligence in a personal injury claim in Maryland?

To succeed in a personal injury claim in Maryland, you must establish four elements of negligence: duty, breach, causation, and damages. First, you must show that the defendant owed you a duty of care. Second, you must prove that the defendant breached this duty through negligent actions or omissions. Third, you need to demonstrate that the breach caused your injuries. Finally, you must provide evidence of the damages you suffered, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What is the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Maryland?

In Maryland, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is three years from the date of the injury. This means that you have three years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party in civil court. If you fail to file within this timeframe, your case may be dismissed, and you will lose your right to pursue compensation. However, exceptions may apply in cases involving minors, medical malpractice, or when the injury was not immediately discovered.

Is Maryland a contributory negligence state?

Yes, Maryland follows the contributory negligence rule, which is one of the strictest negligence doctrines in the country. Under this rule, if the injured party is found even 1% at fault for the accident, they are barred from recovering any compensation. This makes it essential to gather strong evidence to prove that the defendant was entirely responsible for the accident.

What types of compensation are available in a personal injury claim?

Victims of personal injury in Upper Marlboro, MD, may be entitled to various types of compensation. This can include economic damages such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and property damage. Victims may also pursue non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious or malicious.

Can I file a claim if I was injured in a car accident caused by an uninsured driver?

If you are injured in a car accident caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver in Maryland, you can file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Maryland law requires auto insurance policies to include UM/UIM coverage, which protects you if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance to cover your damages. This type of claim allows you to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.

What should I do immediately after a personal injury accident in Upper Marlboro?

After a personal injury accident, it is important to prioritize your safety and protect your legal rights. Seek immediate medical attention to assess and document your injuries. Report the incident to the appropriate authorities, such as law enforcement or property management. Gather evidence, including photographs, witness contact information, and accident reports. Finally, consult with a personal injury attorney in Upper Marlboro to evaluate your claim and discuss your legal options.

How long does it take to settle a personal injury claim in Maryland?

The timeline for settling a personal injury claim in Maryland can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. Some cases may settle within a few months, while others may take a year or longer, especially if the case proceeds to trial. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney can help expedite the process and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.

Do I need a lawyer to file a personal injury claim in Upper Marlboro?

While it is possible to file a personal injury claim without a lawyer, having an experienced attorney can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation. A personal injury lawyer can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, calculate damages, and protect your rights. They can also navigate Maryland’s complex contributory negligence laws and ensure that all legal deadlines are met.

Contact Us to Schedule a Free Consultation

Are you in the Upper Marlboro area and in need of committed legal counsel in your personal injury case? Farmer & Klopfer can help. Contact us to discuss the details of your situation with our qualified legal team. Our dedicated client service team is ready to answer your questions and provide initial guidance to help you take informed steps in pursuing your rights.

If you are interested in speaking with our personal injury lawyers in Upper Marlboro, call (301) 265-2220 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.