A car accident can upend your life in a moment. One minute you’re on your way to work or running errands, and the next you’re dealing with painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and the stress of being unable to work. In Howard County, with busy roads like I-95, Route 29, and Route 40, serious crashes are an unfortunate reality.
If you’ve been hurt, turn to McGowan & Cecil LLC. We have a well-earned reputation as dedicated advocates of injury victims and a proven track record of success. When you become our client, you will have peace of mind with our experienced injury attorneys on your side. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Howard County
Traffic in Howard County can be fast-moving on the highways and congested on local roads. Some of the most common causes of collisions here include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting or adjusting a GPS
- Speeding, especially on I-95 and Route 29
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Aggressive lane changes or tailgating
- Failing to yield at intersections
- Poor road conditions or limited visibility
Knowing how accidents happen can help you and your attorney gather the evidence needed to prove fault.
Common Injuries After a Crash
Even a seemingly minor accident can cause lasting harm. Some injuries are immediately apparent, while others may take days to manifest symptoms. We often see:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Back injuries, including herniated discs
- Broken bones
- Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries
- Cuts, bruises, and scarring
- Internal injuries
Always seek medical care immediately after a crash, even if you feel fine. Howard County residents often go to Howard County General Hospital or nearby medical centers for evaluation and treatment.
What to Do After a Car Accident
The steps you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your recovery and the outcome of your case. If you can, try to:
- Check for injuries and call 911.
- Move to a safe location if possible.
- Exchange information with the other driver.
- Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and injuries.
- Get contact information from witnesses.
- Seek medical attention promptly.
- Contact a lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Recovering from a crash is hard enough without trying to handle insurance claims on your own. A skilled attorney can:
- Investigate the cause of the accident
- Collect and preserve necessary evidence
- Work with medical providers to document your injuries
- Calculate the full value of your losses
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- Take your case to court if needed\
Our goal is to fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing.
Serving Howard County and Surrounding Areas
From Ellicott City and Columbia to Laurel and beyond, our legal team understands the challenges local drivers face. We are aware of the intersections where crashes occur most frequently, the road conditions that can lead to collisions, and how to hold negligent drivers accountable.
Talk to McGowan & Cecil About Your Case
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Howard County, McGowan & Cecil, LLC is ready to help. We have years of experience representing accident victims in Maryland and are dedicated to providing personalized attention and effective advocacy. You pay no fees unless we win your case.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and find out how we can help you move forward after a serious crash.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Howard County
Where do most serious car accidents happen in Howard County?
Crashes often occur on major roads like I-95, Route 29, and Route 40, as well as busy intersections in Columbia and Ellicott City. High traffic volumes and speeding are common factors in these collisions.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Maryland?
In Maryland, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to recover compensation, so it’s essential to act quickly.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partly at fault?
Maryland follows a contributory negligence rule. That means if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not be able to recover damages. An attorney can help you understand how this applies to your case.
What kinds of damages can I recover after a Howard County car accident?
You may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other losses related to the crash. Your lawyer can calculate the full value of your claim.
Do I need to go to court for my car accident case?
Many cases settle through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if a fair settlement isn’t possible, your lawyer can take your case to trial to fight for the compensation you deserve.