Charles County Car Accidents: Side Impact Car Accidents

Car accidents in Maryland, with side impact collisions, often referred to as broadside collisions, are among the most hazardous. Side impact collisions occur when the side of one vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another vehicle, forming a “T” shape. This type of collision is particularly dangerous due to the limited protection the side of a car provides compared to the front or rear. That is why having seasoned personal injury lawyers in Charles County when recovering damages for the injuries acquired is crucial.

Common Causes of Side Impact Car Accidents

Side impact car accidents can happen due to a variety of reasons. Here are some of the common causes of side impact car accidents in Maryland:

• Failure to Yield at Intersections: One of the most common causes of side impact collisions is the failure of drivers to yield the right of way at intersections. This can occur when a driver runs a red light or a stop sign, or when turning across the path of oncoming traffic without adequate clearance.
• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving, including texting, using a phone, eating, or any other activity that diverts attention from the road, can lead to a driver missing crucial traffic signals or failing to notice other vehicles, resulting in a side impact crash.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of an impact. A speeding vehicle might not be able to stop in time for a red light or a stop sign, leading to a broadside collision.
• Failure to Observe Traffic Signals: Ignoring traffic signals, such as running red lights or not adhering to stop signs, is a significant cause of side impact collisions. These accidents often occur at high speeds, making them particularly dangerous.
• Driving Under the Influence: Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction times, making it more likely for a driver to cause an accident, including side impact collisions.

Understanding these causes is essential for drivers to avoid such accidents and for legal professionals in determining fault and liability in the aftermath of a side impact collision.

Side Impact Collisions Laws

Central to side impact car accidents in Maryland is the state’s strict adherence to the doctrine of contributory negligence. Under this legal framework, even minimal fault on the part of a driver can lead to a complete bar from recovering any damages.

For instance, being found even 1% at fault in a side impact collision can result in the loss of all rights to compensation. This stark legal reality places a premium on the accurate and clear establishment of fault in any car accident, especially in the context of a side impact or broadside collision.

Damages for Injuries and Determining Fault

Victims of side impact collisions in Maryland may face significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Fortunately, the law allows for various types of damages. These include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In cases of egregious negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded. Understanding and quantifying these damages is a crucial step in the recovery process.

Determining who is at fault in a side impact collision in Maryland involves a meticulous and comprehensive investigation process. Factors such as the status and visibility of traffic signals at the time of the collision, the credibility and accounts of witnesses, the extent and location of damage on the vehicles, and the conditions of the road play pivotal roles in piecing together the sequence of events leading to the accident.

The importance of this investigation cannot be overstated, given Maryland’s contributory negligence rule. Even a slight error in judgment or a minor lapse in driving can shift the balance of fault, leading to significant legal and financial implications for the involved parties.

How Waldorf Car Accident Lawyers Can Assist

The Law Office of Robert Castro, with our dedicated team of Waldorf car accident lawyers, plays a pivotal role in aiding victims of side impact collisions. We can help navigate the complex legal landscape, from investigating the accident and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, litigating in court. Our goal is to ensure that victims receive the maximum compensation they deserve.

For anyone involved in a side impact car accident in Maryland, seeking legal counsel promptly is crucial. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.