Although rarer than fender-benders or sideswipe style crashes, head-on car accidents are frequently the deadliest types of car accidents that a driver could experience. Drivers should not underestimate the severity of these crashes, especially because they often have devastating and fatal consequences.
Often, these collisions take place unexpectedly and leave very little time or response for victims to swerve out of the way to avoid the accident. Because these crashes are so unpredictable, it is crucial that drivers take all the steps available to them to best protect themselves, which means exercising care while driving, but also making sure that their vehicle is well maintained and properly insured based on state requirements.
According to a recent news report, a fatal head-on collision left one woman dead and several injured. Based on a preliminary investigation by local authorities, a Chevrolet was traveling westbound when it crossed the center line and struck a Hyundai head-on. Investigators noted that the driver of the Chevrolet crossed the center line for unknown reasons. The driver of the Hyundai was transported to a local hospital where she later died from her injuries. Two minors traveling in the Hyundai were also sent to the hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Chevrolet refused medical treatment and investigators do not believe that drugs or alcohol were a factor in causing the crash at this time.
Unfortunately, Maryland, like other states, is no stranger to car accidents and collisions on a regular basis. In fact, in 2020, there were more than 115,000 crashes throughout the state, with over a third resulting in injury to the driver. Although drivers cannot always proactively avoid accidents or prevent them, they can take steps to ensure that their vehicles are mechanically up to date, regularly serviced, and properly insured based on Maryland state requirements.
What Are the Car Insurnace Requirements in Maryland?
According to the Maryland Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Administration, Maryland is a mandatory vehicle insurance state. To register your vehicle in Maryland, drivers are required to have liability insurance and must ensure that they meet state coverage requirements. Maryland drivers must carry vehicle insurance that covers, at minimum, $30,000 for bodily injury, $60,000 for two or more people, and $15,000 in property damage.
Since an unplanned and unexpected accident, however, is always a possibility, many drivers consider purchasing additional optional insurance coverage in Maryland to ensure that they are adequately protected. Many drivers, for example, consider purchasing collision coverage, which can cover damage to your car, regardless of who is at fault in an accident. Other drivers also purchase loan/lease payoff coverage, which can cover any costs that remain from your vehicle in the event that it is totaled.
Do You Need a Maryland Car Accident Attorney?
If you or someone you know was recently involved in a Maryland car accident, contact the attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen for assistance. Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers has recovered more than $55 million for our clients and has represented individuals in all types of legal claims involving fatal traffic accidents, drunk driving accidents, and insurance disputes. To schedule a free consultation today, contact us at 800-654-1949.