steps to take after a wreck in maryland

A car accident in Maryland may render your car unable to drive, result in significant injuries or make it harder to go about your daily routine without pain or financial worry. So let’s take a closer look at what to do after a crash on a Maryland road or highway.

STAY WHERE YOU ARE

State law says that you must remain at the scene of an accident and render aid. Otherwise, you may be issued a citation for hit and run. So begin by calling for police, fire or other emergency service personnel to come to the wreck’s site and provide assistance. However, it’s important to note that you should generally refrain from giving medical aid. Doing so may expose you to a lawsuit if your actions caused harm to another individual unless you are a licensed health care professional covered by the Good Samaritan law.

MAKE YOUR PRESENCE KNOWN

After a motor vehicle accident, you may want to take steps to prevent secondary collisions from taking place. For example, if you have any safety cones, warning lights or similar objects, it may be worth placing them around your vehicle. In addition, safety devices can alert others that cars or people are on the road and that they need to proceed with caution.

SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may be taken to a hospital for treatment soon after a crash occurs. However, even if your injuries seem minor, it’s generally a good idea to seek medical treatment promptly. Taking such a step makes it easier to accurately diagnose your condition while also helping to create a paper trail that might link your injuries to the defendant’s actions.

If you are involved in an accident that a reckless driver causes, you may be entitled to compensation. A financial award may allow you to pay medical bills, repair your vehicle or cover other damages incurred in a wreck. In addition, a mediator can help resolve personal injury cases through settlements, or a court may decide compensation.