What to Know About Hit and Run Auto Accident in Maryland

What to Know About Hit and Run Auto Accident in Maryland

Hit and run auto accidents are a serious issue in Maryland, often resulting in injury or death. It is important for drivers to be aware of the state's laws and regulations concerning these types of incidents. This article will provide an overview of what to know about hit and run auto accidents in Maryland, including information on penalties, reporting requirements, and more.

The consequences associated with a hit and run can be severe, but they vary depending upon the situation. In some cases, someone may face criminal charges if they fail to remain at the scene of an accident or mistakenly believe that no one was injured or killed. On the other hand, those involved in a minor incident may only receive civil liability from their insurance company.

It is essential for all drivers to understand how their actions can impact others following a hit-and-run incident so that everyone remains safe on the roads. This article provides readers with key information related to hit and run auto accidents in Maryland so they can make informed decisions when faced with this type of situation.

The car accident attorneys at Blank Kim Injury Law are experienced with hit and run auto accidents and can help you pursue compensation for losses. They will review the police report, medical records, and any other relevant documents to build a strong case. They can also help you file a claim with your insurance company, as well as negotiate with the other driver's insurance company to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Local hospitals that treat severe injuries caused by car accidents:

Overview Of Maryland Hit And Run Laws

Hit and run accidents in Maryland are like a game of hide-and-seek; the driver who caused the accident is trying to escape responsibility for their actions. These types of accidents involve one or more vehicles sustaining damage, with the at-fault driver fleeing the scene without exchanging information or providing aid. Hit and run collisions are particularly troublesome because they often result in severe injury or even death due to lack of medical attention, further compounding the situation.

Maryland laws require drivers involved in an accident to remain at the accident scene until law enforcement arrives, regardless if it was unintentional or intentional. Drivers must also exchange contact information, such as driver's license information, with any other parties involved, including passengers. In some cases, such as when there has been serious bodily harm or death, leaving the scene can lead to criminal prosecution under certain circumstances.

When dealing with a hit and run accident in Maryland, it's important to remember that all parties should stay calm while taking stock of what happened. It may be necessary to call 911 immediately if anyone has sustained injuries or property damage needs documentation by law enforcement officers. The legal implications of leaving the scene will be discussed in greater detail later on.

The Legal Implications Of Leaving The Scene

Hit and run auto accidents in Maryland are serious offenses that can result in heavy penalties. If a driver flees the scene of an accident, they could face jail time or fines if convicted for a hit and run case. The severity of punishment depends on the circumstances surrounding each individual instance; however, leaving the scene is always considered illegal regardless of any mitigating factors.

In order to be charged with a hit and run offense, several elements have to be proven beyond reasonable doubt by prosecutors: firstly, that an accident occurred; secondly, that the driver had knowledge of it occurring; thirdly, that they failed to remain at the scene after being notified by police officers or other witnesses. Furthermore, drivers must provide identifying information such as name and address when involved in an automobile incident - failure to do so could lead to charges even if they were not responsible for causing the crash.

The consequences of committing a hit and run vary according to state law but typically involve some form of imprisonment or financial penalty depending on how much damage was caused. In Maryland specifically, those found guilty may receive up to three years in prison along with hefty fines ranging from $500-$5000 dollars. The standard punishment for leaving the scene of an accident that simply causes property damage is a maximum fine of $500 and up to 60 days in jail. Therefore, it is important for all individuals who are involved in motor vehicle collisions - regardless of fault -to stay put until law enforcement arrives and instructs them otherwise. 

How To Identify A Hit And Run Driver?

Identifying a hit and run driver can be difficult, but it is possible with the right steps. The key to successfully identifying the driver of a hit and run accident in Maryland lies in gathering as much evidence at the scene as possible. Here are some tips for getting started:
Look for any clues left behind - license plates or pieces of broken vehicle parts might be helpful in determining who was responsible.
Take note of any witnesses around that may have seen something suspicious before the crash occurred, such as an uninsured motorist fleeing the scene.
File a police report immediately after the incident so that authorities can begin investigating.

It's important to remember that you should never try to confront someone suspected of being involved in a hit and run accident yourself; leave this job up to law enforcement professionals in the state of Maryland. Additionally, if you do find out who was responsible for causing damage to your property or person, make sure not to take matters into your own hands by engaging in violent behavior toward them; instead, contact local authorities and let them handle things from there.

What To Do If You Have Been Involved In A Hit-And-Run Accident?

If you have been involved in a hit and run accident in Maryland, it is important to take the correct steps.

  1. First, stay at the scene of the incident and call the police immediately. Provide them with any information that may help identify the perpetrator, such as license plate numbers or descriptions of vehicles or people. The police will be able to investigate further if they are given all available details quickly.
  2. Second, gather any evidence related to the incident. Take photographs of your vehicle damage and get contact information from witnesses who witnessed the accident. If possible, ask nearby businesses for surveillance footage that might show what happened during the hit and run car crash. This can be very useful when filing an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit later on.
  3. Finally, file an auto insurance claim as soon as possible after a hit and run accident in Maryland has occurred. Your insurer may provide coverage even though there was no other driver involved; however, this depends on specific policy provisions so make sure you understand your own coverage prior to making any claims against it.

Additionally, depending on the severity of your injuries and damages sustained, you may wish to consider filing a personal injury lawsuit against those responsible for causing your losses if they can somehow be identified

Steps To Take Following a Hit-and-Run Accident in Maryland

In the case of a hit and run accident, it is imperative to take certain steps to ensure all parties involved are safe and receive proper compensation. It can be difficult to track down a hit and run driver, but there are several important steps that should be taken in order for the victim and his or her insurance company to pursue legal action:

  1. Remain at the scene of the accident until law enforcement arrives. This will provide an opportunity to give a detailed account of what happened while also allowing authorities time to investigate any evidence left behind by the guilty party.
  2. Report the accident as soon as possible after leaving the scene. In Maryland, motorists must report all accidents within 24 hours of occurring; failure to do so could result in criminal penalties.
  3. File a claim with your auto insurance carrier immediately following filing the police report. Depending on your coverage, you may have benefits that help cover medical bills and other damages incurred during an uninsured motorist incident such as this one.

It’s important to seek professional guidance when navigating through these tough times — many attorneys offer free consultation for hit and run cases. Taking advantage of this service can prove beneficial in finding out what options are available for taking legal action against those who have caused harm through their negligence or recklessness on the roadways.

Free Consultation For Hit And Run Cases

Hit and run auto accidents are a serious problem in Maryland. If you have been involved in such an accident, it is important to understand the legal implications of this type of incident. You may be entitled to free consultation with an experienced attorney who can help you determine your rights under the law.

In any hit and run case, even if you only hit a parked car, there is always someone at fault. This could be you or another driver who fled the scene before police arrived. An experienced lawyer will review all evidence associated with the crash and build a strong case for damages owed by the other party to cover medical bills, lost wages, vehicle repairs, pain and suffering, etc.

Knowing your rights after a hit and run accident is key to obtaining fair compensation from insurance companies as well as collecting punitive damages from those responsible for causing the collision. 

What Happens If The Hit-and-Run Driver Is Never Found?

When the driver of a hit and run car accident flees the scene, it can leave those involved in the incident feeling helpless. In such cases, there may be no way to know who was responsible or take action against them. For victims of these types of accidents in Maryland, however, all is not lost. It’s important to understand what steps should be taken if a driver is never found after leaving the scene of an auto accident.

First off, any person involved in a hit and run accident must report it to the police within 24 hours for it to be on record and investigated further by authorities. This will give law enforcement the ability to search for evidence that could help identify the perpetrator and allow legal proceedings to move forward if needed. If possible, gathering as much information from witnesses at the scene of an accident can also help with tracking down a missing driver.

Though difficult to do without knowing who caused the crash, seeking compensation for damages resulting from a hit and run is still possible through one's own insurance company or even through civil court depending on certain circumstances. Taking pictures of damage done to cars or other property affected can prove helpful when filing a claim too. Ultimately though, understanding how best deal with incidents involving drivers that have gone missing requires professional advice—it’s wise to speak with legal counsel regarding one's rights and options following this type of car accident. With proper guidance, individuals are able find ways seek justice despite having few resources available due to someone else’s negligence. 

Hitting A Parked Car: What To Do?

Hitting a parked car in Maryland can be considered a hit and run accident. If the driver of the vehicle is unable to identify themselves or provide their license plate number, they must remain at the scene of the crash until law enforcement arrives. The driver should also exchange information with any witnesses and take pictures if possible for evidence.

If the driver is unable to identify themselves, such as when hitting an empty car without any identifying information on it, then they are required by law to report the incident to local police within 24 hours and include all details that could help them find the owner of the damaged property. This includes providing as much detail about where it happened, what kind of damage was done, and other important notes. It's best practice to obtain a copy of this report for your records.

In addition, drivers may need to contact their insurance company before leaving the scene of a hit and run accident involving a parked car in order to process claims more quickly. Providing the insurance provider with the date, time, location, and vehicle registration number can assist in filing an accurate claim. Without these details readily available at hand when contacting them, you risk delaying processing times which might affect how soon repairs are completed on either vehicles involved in the collision. To ensure proper handling of proceedings related to a hit and run auto accident in Maryland, consider seeking advice from a qualified attorney who specializes in car accidents.

Contacting A Maryland Car Accident Attorney

After a hit and run accident in Maryland, it is important to contact an experienced car accident attorney. An automobile accident lawyer can help you understand your insurance coverage and rights as well as the legal remedies available for holding the negligent driver accountable. If a responsible party cannot be identified or there are multiple defendants involved, a qualified auto accident attorney will be able to maximize any potential compensation received by filing claims against all of them.

When selecting an attorney, make sure they have experience handling cases like yours. Ask questions such as how many years of experience do they have and what type of success rate do they maintain? It is also important that the car accident lawyer has knowledge of local laws and regulations related to hit and run accidents in Maryland. In addition, look for an attorney who offers free consultation services so you can schedule a free appointment with them prior to committing to their services.

By enlisting the assistance of an experienced Maryland car accident attorney, you can ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses incurred from the hit and run incident. This includes medical bills, lost wages due to time off work for recovery, property damage repair costs, pain & suffering damages, and more.

Civil Lawsuits After A Maryland Hit-And-Run Accident

Hit and run auto accidents are not uncommon in Maryland. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 1,124 hit and run crashes reported in Maryland during 2018. Drivers who leave the scene of an accident can face serious consequences if they are caught by law enforcement officials. The potential civil claims victims of a hit and run have against the driver depend on their ability to locate the driver's identity or license information. In this section, we will look at understanding civil lawsuits after being involved in a hit and run accident in Maryland.

Victims must file an accident claim with their insurance company before filing any legal action against drivers who leave the scene of an accident. If the driver cannot be identified, victims may seek compensation through uninsured motorist coverage offered under their policy. Additionally, it is important that victims contact local authorities immediately following the incident to ensure all pertinent evidence is collected for their case. This includes obtaining witness statements from anyone who saw the crash occur as well as taking pictures of the damage caused by the vehicle responsible for leaving the scene of the accident.

It is also important to note that because these cases involve criminal charges, victims should reach out to both police departments and local state attorneys’ offices when seeking restitution after being involved in a hit and run accident in Maryland. Depending on whether or not a suspect has been apprehended, these entities may be able to help identify them if they have provided false registration or license information upon arrest or detention. Understanding how each entity works together is essential when trying to build a strong case against those responsible for causing your harm due to their negligence or recklessness while driving. With this understanding one can better understand what statute of limitations apply when pursuing a civil lawsuit after being involved in a hit and run auto accident in Maryland.

Understanding The Statute Of Limitations

It is important to understand the statute of limitations for a hit and run auto accident in Maryland. Drivers who are involved in a car accident, whether it involves property damage or injury, are required by law to remain at the scene until all information is exchanged with other drivers. In cases where someone flees the scene after an accident occurs, this violation may result in criminal charges as well as civil repercussions.

The state of Maryland imposes three-year statutes of limitation on most personal injury claims related to motor vehicle accidents, including hit and runs. This means that any person injured must file a lawsuit against the responsible party within three years from when the incident occurred or else they will be unable to pursue damages through legal action.

When faced with a hit and run situation in Maryland, it's recommended to contact a lawyer right away since there may be several complicated steps necessary prior to filing suit. It is also wise to seek medical attention immediately regardless if physical injuries appear minor; some symptoms might not surface until later due to shock or adrenaline.

Below are key points regarding understanding the statute of limitations:

The state of Maryland has a three-year limit imposed on most personal injury claims relating to motor vehicle accidents which includes those involving hit and runs.
Without timely filing of the claim within 3 years from when the incident happened, one cannot pursue damages legally.

Contacting a lawyer immediately following such an incident is highly advised along with seeking medical treatment even if no apparent physical harm was done at first glance.

Seeking Financial Compensation For Victims Involved in a Hit and Run Crash

Following the statute of limitations, victims of hit and run accidents in Maryland can seek financial compensation for damages suffered. In order to do so, understanding uninsured motorist policy, damage to your car, and how to identify the hit and run driver are all important factors. With a few steps, you may be able to find justice after such an incident.

First, it is essential to understand what type of insurance coverage you have in case of a driver who flees the scene. You must know if any part of your vehicle or other property was damaged by the hit-and-run driver who leaves the scene without providing contact information. Depending on your auto insurance provider’s terms and conditions they may cover certain amounts of damage due to an accident with an unidentified driver - this is known as Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage (UMPD). This means that even if you cannot identify the person responsible for causing the crash, you will still receive some form of protection from your insurer provided that UMPD is included in your policy.

It might also prove helpful to take pictures at the scene which could lead to identifying the culprit later on when caught. If there were any eyewitnesses present during the time of impact then get their contact details as well; these people can provide vital evidence should legal action need to be taken against a suspected individual down the road. Additionally, check for surveillance footage nearby that could help determine who was behind wheel at time collision occurred.

Finally, being aware of local laws regarding motor vehicles will put you one step ahead since knowledge about regulations governing traffic violations can assist in finding redressal through proper channels once perpetrator has been identified. Gather information from authorities regarding state guidelines related to filing claims involving such events before taking further action towards seeking financial compensation for losses incurred post-accident.

Insurance Coverage Options For Victims

When involved in an accident caused by a hit-and-run driver, victims may have several insurance coverage options available to them. In Maryland, automobile owners are required by law to insure their vehicles against the possibility of a vehicle accident. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data shows that there were 550 traffic fatalities overall in 2017, up 5.4% from 522 in 2016. If the victim has uninsured motorist bodily injury protection from their own auto insurance company, they should be able to file a claim for compensation for any medical expenses or property damages incurred as a result of the hit and run incident. However, if the victim does not have this type of coverage, there are still other avenues that can be pursued.

The Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF) provides limited monetary assistance to individuals who were injured in an automobile accident with an at-fault unknown driver. The MAIF is funded through premiums collected from participating drivers and insurers operating in the state of Maryland. This fund will pay up to $30,000 per person for injuries sustained during a hit and run accident. Additionally, any remaining costs associated with damage done to another’s property may also be covered under MAIF's policy terms and conditions.

Finally, it is important to remember that seeking legal advice regarding any potential claims related to a hit and run accident is highly recommended when looking into various types of insurance coverage options. An experienced attorney can help guide victims through the process and advise on what steps need to be taken next based upon individual circumstances and applicable laws in Maryland. With all these resources available, victims of hit and run accidents in Maryland have plenty of options available for pursuing financial relief after such devastating events occur.

Seeking Emotional Support After An Accident In Maryland

The aftermath of a hit and run auto accident can be emotionally trying for victims in Maryland. It is important to seek out emotional support after going through such an experience.

Here are some steps that can help following an accident:

  • Reach out to family and friends who understand what you're going through.
  • Take advantage of counseling services offered by health insurance providers or the state government.
  • Attend local support groups with other people who have experienced similar traumas.
  • Utilize online resources like hotlines, blogs, and forums to get advice from others dealing with similar situations.
  • Seek professional help if needed – therapy sessions with a licensed therapist could provide much-needed relief during this difficult time.

When seeking emotional support following a hit and run accident in Maryland, it's equally important to consider how these events may impact one’s long-term health. Victims may also need legal assistance if they wish to receive compensation for their injuries or death from the driver responsible for the crash.

Impact On Long-Term Health Following A Hit And Run Accident In Maryland

Shockingly, nearly two-thirds of all fatal hit and run accidents in Maryland involve either a pedestrian or cyclist. This statistic highlights the devastating effects that such incidents can have on individuals and families alike. These types of collisions are especially dangerous due to their unpredictability, leaving victims with no time to prepare for impact. As a result, personal injuries sustained during these crashes tend to be more severe than those resulting from regular automobile collisions. Commonly reported long-term health issues after a hit and run accident include neck injury, whiplash, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injury (TBI), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and even death.

In accordance with state law, any driver who is involved in an auto accident resulting in serious bodily injury or death is required by law to remain at the scene until police arrive. Unfortunately, not everyone follows this rule; drivers may panic and flee the scene before authorities arrive. In many cases, it becomes difficult for police to identify suspects if witnesses cannot provide valid information about the vehicle responsible for the crash. Even when identified, some perpetrators will face only minor penalties unless there is sufficient evidence against them.

The repercussions of a hit and run incident go beyond physical harm or property damage; victims must also deal with emotional trauma associated with being abandoned by another person in need of help. Justice for victims would require stronger legal action taken against offenders who violate traffic laws intended to protect vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists. Such steps could ensure that negligent motorists are held accountable for their actions while providing psychological comfort to injured parties as they heal from their ordeal.

Maryland Hit and Run Accident Attorneys Fight For Justice

Hit and run accidents in Maryland can be a traumatizing experience, one that leaves victims feeling uncertain of the legal implications or their ability to seek financial compensation. With this knowledge, it is important for all drivers on the road to understand the severity of these incidents and take steps to ensure their safety if involved in a Maryland hit and run accident.

Data from The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows that hit-and-run fatalities have increased by more than 7% nationwide since 2009—a trend echoed within the state of Maryland. This statistic serves as a reminder that those who are found guilty of leaving the scene could face serious consequences. Furthermore, this data illustrates just how essential it is for individuals to know what to do after being involved in the accident.

The emotional impact of a hit and run should never be underestimated; seeking support following such an incident is crucial in order to move forward with life in a healthy manner. By understanding key details related to a hit-and-run case, individuals may feel empowered rather than helpless when faced with such circumstances, allowing them to take control over their lives again.

If you have been the victim of a hit and run auto accident in Maryland, the car accident lawyers at Blank Kim Injury Law can help. They understand the complexities of hit and run accidents, and will help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Don't hesitate to seek legal help after a hit and run auto accident. Contact the team at Blank Kim Injury Law today.

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Aaron Blank Esq
Date Published: March 6, 2023
Aaron Blank is a patient safety advocate who holds the healthcare system responsible when it fails. He keeps businesses accountable if they choose profits over the safety of the community, and he ensures car insurance companies pay their fair share for the harm that reckless drivers cause. Aaron and his proficient legal team bring an approach based on dedication, guidance, and compassion through the difficult process of pursuing serious injury claims. He has dedicated his career to fighting for injury victims to recover losses from medical expenses, lost income, loss of enjoyment of life, or the loss of a loved one.
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