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It started as a routine trip down Route 198. Then came the screech of brakes, the jolt of impact, and the confusion that follows any serious crash. What happens in the next 30 minutes could affect your health, your finances, and even your ability to recover compensation.
Yet too many people in Maryland make avoidable mistakes that end up costing them. Here are the most common missteps and how you can protect yourself after a car accident in Maryland.
Mistake #1: Saying “I’m Sorry” at the Scene
It’s human nature to be polite, especially after something scary or traumatic. But saying “I’m sorry” can be twisted into an admission of fault—even if you weren’t responsible. Maryland follows pure contributory negligence laws, which means if you’re found even 1% at fault, you may be barred from any financial recovery.
What to do instead:
Keep your comments factual and brief. Ask if others are okay, exchange information, and wait for law enforcement to arrive.
Mistake #2: Not Calling the Police
Some people think they don’t need to report a crash if the damage looks minor. That’s a big risk. A police report creates an official record, helps document fault, and supports your claim if injuries show up later. Maryland law requires you to report an accident if it results in injury, death, or property damage above $1,000.
What to do instead:
Always call 911 and ask for an officer at the scene. If police don’t respond, file a report with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration within 15 days.
Mistake #3: Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
Adrenaline can mask pain. It’s common to feel “okay” after a crash, only to wake up the next day with severe stiffness, pain, or dizziness. Delaying treatment can make your injury worse and make it harder to link your injury to the accident later.
What to do instead:
Go to the ER, urgent care, or your primary doctor as soon as possible—even if it’s just for a precautionary exam. Document every visit.
Mistake #4: Talking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Advice
It might seem harmless to give a statement to the at-fault driver’s insurer. However, insurance adjusters are trained to look for reasons to deny or reduce your claim. They may pressure you into giving a recorded statement or accepting a fast (low) settlement.
What to do instead:
Politely decline to speak to the other party’s insurance company until you’ve talked to a lawyer. Let your attorney handle all communication.
Mistake #5: Not Understanding PIP Coverage
In Maryland, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) is optional—but if you have it, it can cover immediate medical costs and lost wages regardless of who was at fault. Many drivers don’t realize they have this coverage or miss the deadline to file.
What to do instead:
Check your auto insurance policy right away to see if you have PIP coverage. There’s a one-year deadline for submitting a claim under PIP in Maryland.
Mistake #6: Posting About the Crash on Social Media
It’s tempting to share what happened, especially if you’re angry or upset. But anything you post can be used against you. Even a smiling photo can be interpreted as proof you’re not really injured.
What to do instead:
Stay off social media while your case is active. Don’t post photos, updates, or comments about the accident, your injuries, or your recovery.
Mistake #7: Waiting Too Long to Call a Lawyer
Maryland has a three-year statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, but waiting that long can hurt your case. Evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and insurance companies become more challenging to deal with the longer you wait.
What to do instead:
Call an attorney as soon as possible. At McGowan & Cecil, we offer free consultations and can step in immediately to protect your rights.
Don’t Let a Mistake Cost You Your Case
You didn’t ask to be hit. And you shouldn’t be the one left picking up the pieces while the at-fault party’s insurance company plays hardball. We help injured people across Maryland get the compensation they deserve.
Let McGowan & Cecil, LLC take the pressure off you. We’ll investigate the crash, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for your recovery while you focus on healing. There’s no fee unless we win your case. Call today to schedule your free consultation.