If you are in a car crash in Maryland caused by an out-of-state driver, you may have questions about how to pursue fair compensation and which state laws are applicable.
Generally, Maryland accident law applies to motor vehicle accidents that occur within the state.
It’s important to know what steps to take after a car accident with an out-of-state driver. An experienced Maryland car accident attorney can review the details of your auto accident and discuss your legal options.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Maryland Car Accident Involving Out-of-State Drivers
After any car accident, call 911 to summon police and request an ambulance if anyone has serious injuries.
You should exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved. If you don’t need immediate medical treatment, prioritize getting a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Medical professionals may diagnose injuries such as a concussion or internal injuries that are not immediately apparent to you.
Contact a Maryland car accident lawyer for a free initial consultation to discuss your legal options.
Maryland Car Accident Reporting Rules
Maryland law requires drivers to file a written report within 15 days of any crash causing injury or death.
This report must include proof of auto liability insurance.
A report is not required if police officers investigated the car wreck and filed a report with the Maryland Department of State Police. Even when you don’t have to file a report, you should still call 911 to report the accident. Reporting a car accident is a good idea.
The responding law enforcement officer can document what happened, including the fact that the other driver lives out of state.
How to Handle Insurance Claims with Out-of-State Drivers
Notify your insurer promptly of the collision, even if you believe the out-of-state driver was at fault.
Provide basic details, but avoid giving a recorded statement or discussing a settlement before you speak with a car accident lawyer. Out-of-state insurers will handle claims under Maryland accident law.
Keep copies of all medical expenses, car repair estimates, statements of lost wages, and claim communications.
Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Your insurer will communicate with the other driver’s insurance company about the accident and determine fault.
Under Maryland’s contributory negligence rule, if you’re found even partly at fault for the crash, you may be barred from recovering compensation. Because insurance companies may use this rule to dispute your car accident claim, you should have an experienced Baltimore car accident attorney to advocate on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Accidents with Out-of-State Drivers
Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about accidents involving out-of-state drivers.
Which state’s laws apply to a Maryland car accident involving an out-of-state driver?
Maryland law generally applies when the crash occurred in Maryland. That includes fault rules, court procedures, legal process, and deadlines for filing a car accident lawsuit.
How do I serve legal papers on an out-of-state driver if I need to file a lawsuit in Maryland?
If you file a car accident lawsuit against the driver responsible for the crash, the State of Maryland allows service through the Motor Vehicle Administration in cases involving out-of-state drivers.
Can an out-of-state driver be forced to appear in a Maryland court?
Yes, if the crash occurred in Maryland, the out-of-state at-fault driver may be required to appear in a Maryland court.
How long can the claims process take when the other driver lives out of state?
Resolving car accident cases involving out-of-state drivers can take anywhere from several months to more than a year, depending on the seriousness of injuries, the amount of medical bills, and whether there are disputes regarding the negligent driver, insurance coverage, or the amount of the financial recovery.
Do I need a Maryland-licensed attorney even if I live in another state?
Yes, you need a personal injury attorney licensed to practice in Maryland to handle Maryland legal procedures and court filings related to a car accident personal injury claim.
When to Contact a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer
If you were involved in a collision with an out-of-state driver, you should contact a Maryland car accident lawyer from Greenberg Law Offices to discuss your options and protect yourself.
Our law office has been providing legal services to Maryland residents for over 60 years. Our dedicated injury lawyers have recovered tens of millions in compensation for accident victims. We can discuss whether you are entitled to file a personal injury case.
Contact us 24/7 to get started with a free legal consultation.
