The statute of limitations for a car accident in Maryland is generally three years (Md. Code, Cts. & Jud. Proc. § 5-101). It’s a great idea to discuss this time limit with a Maryland car accident attorney if you have any questions.
An attorney can assist car accident victims by helping them understand how legislation like time limits can apply in an accident lawsuit. Choosing an attorney to represent you and file your lawsuit before the time limit is up can benefit you in several ways.
Statutes of Limitations – Exceptions
When there are exceptions to the law, this can indicate you should double-check with a legal professional before assuming you know which deadline applies to your lawsuit.
As you know, Maryland gives you three years to file an injury lawsuit—unless another law changes this. One example is if you were in a car accident and the negligent party was a government agency. Perhaps a municipal employee hit you and your vehicle; the time limit is different.
If you plan to file a claim against a municipality, they must receive written notice within one year. Whether you have one or three years to take action, you should never delay. A lot of work goes into building a strong case, so you should allow a lawyer as much time as possible to advocate for you.
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What Aspects of My Claim Are Time-Sensitive?
Even with blanket time limits on your lawsuit, some parts of proving your claim could have some time sensitivities. Suppose you collected contact information for eyewitnesses.
You would like that testimony to help your lawsuit. Waiting could mean they could relocate, change phone numbers, or otherwise be unavailable. Also, their recollection of an accident from two years ago may not be as clear. Memories fade over time.
Additionally, certain pieces of evidence could disappear. This includes traffic camera or surveillance video footage that recorded the accident. You don’t want to lose this vital form of evidence that could favor your case. The sooner a lawyer starts working on your case, the better.
Filing a Police Report Has Time Limits, Too
Maryland Transportation Section § 20-107 rules that all drivers involved in an accident causing injury or death must file a police report within 15 days. Our law firm can order the police report for you so you don’t have to worry about obtaining it. With so much on the line to recover compensation for, it can certainly help to reach out to us so we can handle your case.
If You don’t File a Police Report on Time
Don’t fret. Talk to your attorney right away. You may still be able to file a lawsuit for compensation covering your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Cases could still be accepted within the three-year timeline even if they did not get the report filed.
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When You don’t Meet Deadlines
If you do not file your lawsuit by the deadlines set out by the state of Maryland, you may miss out entirely. You may not receive any compensation for your injuries and property damage. You don’t want to jeopardize your ability to get the compensation you’re entitled to.
There could also be exceptions that decrease the time you have to act, so it is best to reach out to our firm soon after the accident. We can help safeguard your right to file a lawsuit.
One of the benefits of working with us is you don’t have to keep track of deadlines. This responsibility falls on your attorney. Stress relief is a significant benefit of having an attorney represent your claim or lawsuit.
You won’t have to keep track of everything, make phone calls, or worry if you are making a mistake. With an attorney handling your case, you can focus on healing.
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Find Help with Deadlines When Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit
We represent car accident claims on a contingency basis and can guide you throughout the process from beginning to end. Our attorneys can help you know which next step to take in your case. If you struggle to understand which deadlines would apply to your lawsuit or need help filing, call our firm.
Ask about a complimentary appointment. A no-obligation review of your claim can help you better understand the depth of your legal situation. It is a great time to ask important questions like those concerning deadlines.
If your injuries are severe, we can assist by arranging to come to you. There are multiple options. Please don’t pay the costs of this accident alone; we can help you get the compensation you need to return to your life.
Call the Adam Smallow Injury Lawyers Today
Don’t wait another minute for legal help. We can help you turn things around after a preventable car accident. Call now for your free, no-risk, no-obligation consultation. Also take a moment to read reviews from other clients to get a feel for what it’s like working with us.
Call or text (410)777-8960 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form