Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog
By accepting a Maryland driver’s license, all motorists assume a legal duty to operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner and in accordance with the state’s traffic laws. In some cases, a driver’s dangerous driving habits do not rise to the level of criminal conduct, but they may still be the basis for a personal injury lawsuit. For example, if a driver causes an accident while daydreaming behind the wheel, it is most likely that they will be issued a citation, and no further criminal charges will be pursued. However, the accident victim may still choose to pursue a personal injury case to recover for the damages they sustained in the accident.
Other dangerous driving behavior, such as drunk driving, is both a violation of a criminal law as well as a basis for civil liability. This means that if a drunk driver causes an accident, they will likely face criminal charges that could result in probation, fines, and even imprisonment. However, the focus of a criminal trial is not to obtain compensation for the injuries sustained by the accident victim. If an accident victim would like to obtain compensation for their injuries, this must be done through a personal injury lawsuit.
Police Suspect Driver Responsible for Fatal Car Accident Was Intoxicated
Earlier this month in Arundel County, two people lost their lives in a traffic accident that police believe was caused by a drunk driver. According to one local news report covering the tragic accident, the two cars collided on Crane Highway, near the intersection with Route 3, at approximately 2:30 in the morning. Evidently, the driver of a Dodge Charger was heading northbound on Crane Highway when he struck a Nissan Altima that was crossing on the highway on Route 3. After the initial collision, the Nissan careened out of control until it collided with a tree and came to a stop when it struck a nearby utility pole.
Both the driver and the passenger were pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. The driver of the Charger was taken to University of Maryland Shock Trauma with serious injuries. Police believe that the driver of the Charger was speeding and under the influence at the time of the collision; however, the investigation is still ongoing.
Have You Been a Victim of a Drunk Driving Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been involved in a Maryland drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation to help you recoup the costs you have incurred as a result of the accident. In many cases, successful accident victims are able to recover amounts for their past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and any pain and suffering they endured as a result of the accident. Call 410-654-3600 today to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated personal injury attorney who can help you understand Maryland law as it applies to your case. Calling is free, and you will not be billed for our time unless we can help you obtain the compensation that you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
As Autonomous Car Technology Advances, Legal Issues Arise, Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog, published March 7, 2017.
The Continuing Problem of Drunk Driving on Maryland Roads, Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog, published March 28, 2017.