After an auto accident, you may find yourself dealing with intense physical pain and severe financial stress. The Silver Spring car accident lawyers at Marks & Harrison are here to lighten that burden. Our dedicated attorneys provide comprehensive support to those injured in motor vehicle accidents. We will strive to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to meet your needs and pursue your goals. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s work together to build a happier future.
Where Do Car Accidents Occur Most Often in Silver Spring?
Montgomery County officials report that many accidents in the Silver Spring area occur on arterial roads like Georgia Avenue, Old Georgetown Road, and Veirs Mill Road. Traffic data from Montgomery County shows car crashes are most likely to happen on the following types of roads:
- State highways – State highways in Silver Spring see a high volume of traffic, including local commuters and visitors unfamiliar with the area. This mix increases the chances of accidents, especially at intersections and during rush hours. The variety of vehicles, from cars to large trucks, also contributes to complex traffic patterns and potential collisions on these roads.
- County roads – County roads often pass through varied landscapes, including residential areas, commercial zones, and rural spaces. These roads may have less consistent maintenance and signage than major highways, leading to potentially hazardous conditions. Curves, variable speed limits, and poor lighting increase the risk of a collision.
- Interstates – Interstates around Silver Spring are designed for high-speed travel, which inherently increases the severity of accidents when they occur. The heavy traffic flow, including long-distance travelers and commercial trucks, adds to the risk. Factors such as driver fatigue, high speeds, and abrupt lane changes contribute to the likelihood of multi-vehicle crashes.
What Types of Car Accidents Happen in Silver Spring?
Silver Spring car accidents range from minor fender benders to more severe collisions, each with its unique set of challenges and consequences. Some of the common types of car wrecks our team handles are:
- Rear-end collisions – Often occurring in heavy traffic or at stoplights, these accidents happen when a vehicle crashes into the back of the one in front. Distracted driving and following too closely are primary causes of rear-end crashes.
- Side-impact crashes – Also called T-bone accidents, these collisions occur when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another in the front or rear. Side-impact accidents often result from failing to yield or running red lights.
- Sideswipe accidents – A sideswipe accident occurs when the side of one car runs into the side of another moving adjacent to it. These crashes often result from drivers trying to merge or overtake someone without enough room to do so safely.
- Head-on collisions – Head-on crashes occur when the fronts of two vehicles strike one another, usually because one driver drifted out of their lane into oncoming traffic or traveled the wrong way on a one-way street. Head-on collisions often result from distracted driving, drunk driving, or confusion.
- Single-vehicle accidents – These involve one vehicle hitting a pole, tree, or another stationary object. Factors like weather conditions, driver distraction, or swerving to avoid something on the road play a significant role in single-vehicle crashes.
What Are Common Causes of Silver Spring Car Accidents?
Car crashes in Silver Spring happen for many reasons. However, the common element in most Maryland car accident cases is driver negligence. Here are some examples of negligent driving:
- Distracted driving – This occurs when drivers divert their attention from the road, often due to using cellphones, eating, or other activities.
- Speeding – Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for road conditions reduces drivers’ ability to react to obstacles.
- Drunk driving – Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Running red lights or stop signs – A driver who enters an intersection when other motorists have the right of way risks colliding with them.
- Tailgating – Following another vehicle too closely gives a driver less time to stop, raising the likelihood of rear-end crashes.
What Are Common Injuries from Car Accidents?
Car wrecks can result in a wide range of injuries, varying from minor to life-altering. The impact’s force and angle, as well as other factors specific to the crash, determine the severity of these injuries, which may include:
- Whiplash – This neck injury is caused by rapid back-and-forth movement.
- Broken bones – Car accidents frequently break bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs.
- Concussions – A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury from a blow to the head.
- Lacerations – Cuts and scrapes often result from shattered glass or metal in collisions.
- Internal injuries – Damage to internal organs or internal bleeding require immediate medical attention.
What Damages Can I Seek in My Car Accident Lawsuit?
One vital reason to hire a car accident attorney is that they can negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to maximize your compensation. A lawyer can gather evidence to demonstrate that the other driver was to blame for the crash and place an accurate dollar value on the harm you suffered. That way, they can pursue maximum compensation for your:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost income
- Reduced future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological distress
- Lower quality of life
Do I Have a Time Limit for Filing My Car Accident Lawsuit in Maryland?
Maryland law generally gives you three years from the date of a car crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, consider speaking with an attorney as soon as possible to avoid any issues with a car accident claim. The sooner you do, the quicker they can get started on pursuing maximum compensation for your injuries.
Contact a Silver Spring, MD Car Accident Lawyer
The attorneys of Marks & Harrison know how a collision can affect all areas of your life, but we can help you fight for fair compensation. Call us today or reach out online for a free consultation with our Silver Spring car accident attorneys.
