National Harbor Car Accident Lawyer

In a busy area like National Harbor, car accidents occur on congested roads, within parking structures, or near popular destinations, where traffic patterns change quickly. They also happen in less-traveled areas, but the consequences can be just as serious.  

If you were injured in a crash in this region, rest assured that you can turn to the Law Offices of Duane O. King. An experienced National Harbor car accident lawyer offers skilled guidance to individuals involved in motor vehicle collisions and pursues justice for their legal claims. Know this: Timely action following a crash is important, especially when dealing with potential liability issues and filing deadlines under state law.

How Does Liability Work in Maryland Car Accident Cases?

The State of Maryland follows an at-fault system for car accident claims. The liable party’s insurance provider typically pays the claims filed when the claimant proves that the liable party caused the crash.

Maryland also uses the contributory negligence rule; it is only one of five states (including the District of Columbia, Alabama, North Carolina, and Virginia) to do so. It is a common law rule: If a claimant is partly responsible for their injuries, they cannot recover damages in a personal injury claim. 

Given those rules, clearly proving fault in Maryland car accident claims is critical for plaintiffs. Even if you are found to be just slightly responsible for a crash, your path to recovering damages might be barred. A National Harbor car accident lawyer investigates every potential avenue for proving fault, whether it is analyzing local traffic laws, sourcing traffic camera footage, or interviewing witnesses.

What Types of Damages May Be Recovered After a Car Accident?

Following a car crash, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for various losses. These often include medical bills, physical therapy, lost income, and property damage. In more severe car accidents, there may also be claims for pain and suffering or long-term disabilities. Some individuals may also experience emotional trauma or difficulty returning to work, particularly if they develop anxiety or depression following the event. The specific damages available depend on the nature and severity of the collision and the applicable insurance policies.

Fair compensation can help reduce the financial impact on an injured party and their household. A National Harbor car accident lawyer can assess the potential value of your claim by reviewing medical records, employment history, and other documentation. 

What if the Other Driver Does Not Have Insurance?

If the at-fault driver lacks insurance coverage, you may still have options for financial recovery. Maryland requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage, which may provide compensation in these situations. However, the process of filing a claim under this provision often involves strict documentation and may involve disputes with your own insurance provider.

In addition, legal claims against the uninsured driver may be filed in court, although collecting on a judgment may prove difficult if the person has limited financial resources. We can evaluate the available options and determine whether filing under the uninsured motorist policy or pursuing legal action is appropriate, based on the circumstances.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Car Accident in Maryland?

Maryland generally imposes a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims resulting from motor vehicle accidents. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in case dismissal, regardless of the severity of the injuries or damages. However, there may be shorter deadlines in certain circumstances, such as when the collision involves a government vehicle or public entity. In those situations, there is less time to work with. A National Harbor car accident lawyer tracks these important deadlines and prepares the necessary documentation to meet legal requirements within the allowable time.

Can I File a Claim if a Family Member Died in a Car Accident?

If a fatal accident occurs, certain surviving family members may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death claim under Maryland law. This type of claim may provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support that the deceased would have provided. Eligible claimants typically include spouses, parents, and children.

Establishing the basis for a wrongful death claim involves demonstrating that the other party’s actions directly caused the death. Evidence like accident reports, witness statements, and forensic analysis may be used to support the claim.  

What Role Does Insurance Play in the Outcome of a Car Accident Case?

Insurance companies often play significant roles in determining car accident claim outcomes. They may investigate the incident, assess fault, and make settlement offers based on their interpretation of the facts. However, initial settlement offers may not always reflect the full extent of the injured party’s losses or future needs.

Adjusters may focus on minimizing payouts or may question the severity of injuries, so we advise against signing settlement documents without consulting our legal team. We help claimants prepare thorough claims supported by medical documentation, wage records, and other evidence. When a settlement offer seems inadequate, we can negotiate on your behalf.

Why Might My Claim Be Denied or Reduced?

Claims get denied and payments are reduced for different reasons. These include allegations of shared fault, missing documentation, inconsistent medical records, or delays in reporting injuries. Remember, even a small percentage of fault attributed to the injured party can result in a complete denial of compensation.

Responding effectively to a denial requires an analysis of the insurer’s reasoning and the available evidence. An effective challenge might involve obtaining additional records or seeking testimony from expert witnesses. A National Harbor car accident lawyer can assess the basis for your denial and recommend an appropriate course of action to contest the decision. If negotiations do not lead to a fair settlement, we are prepared to represent you in court.

A Skilled National Harbor Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Can Pursue Justice for Your Injuries

An experienced National Harbor car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can thoroughly review your circumstances, protect your rights, and improve the outcome of your personal injury claim. For a free consultation, call our Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia offices at 888-740-KING (5464) or complete our online form. We proudly serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.