Getting into a car crash can be stressful and confusing. If you’re involved in an accident, it’s crucial to understand why you might be held responsible. Sometimes, even if you think you did nothing wrong, you could still be partially or fully at fault.
Our Maryland car accident attorney at Mooney Law is here to explain some surprising reasons why this might happen. Knowing these reasons can help you avoid trouble and get help when needed.
Reasons Why You Might Be Liable After a Car Crash
For several reasons, you may be liable for a motor vehicle accident here in Maryland.
These include:
Driving Under the Influence
If you’ve been accused of driving under the influence (DUI) and were injured in a crash, it’s crucial to know how this could impact your situation. DUI accusations can complicate your case significantly, even if you were hurt in the accident.
Being accused of driving drunk or high not only raises the risk of causing an accident but also makes it more likely that you’ll be held responsible. This could lead to serious consequences, like fines, license loss, or even jail time. If you were involved in an accident, contact a car accident lawyer in Maryland.
An attorney can help you overcome these accusations by providing clear and convincing evidence that the other driver was responsible for the crash.
Distracted Driving
Another major reason for liability is distracted driving. Distractions like texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving can lead to accidents. When you’re not fully focused on the road, you increase the risk of making mistakes that could harm others.
You could be liable if you cause an accident because you were distracted. It’s essential to stay focused and avoid distractions while driving. If you need legal help, our accident lawyer in Maryland is here to assist you.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is when you drive in a way that shows a complete disregard for safety. This includes speeding, running red lights, or weaving in and out of traffic. Reckless driving can significantly increase your chances of causing an accident and being found liable.
Courts often view reckless driving as a serious offense, leading to severe penalties. If you’re dealing with the fallout of reckless driving, consult with a Maryland car accident attorney to understand your options.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance
Sometimes, accidents happen because of poor vehicle maintenance. If you don’t take care of your car, like failing to change the oil or fix brake issues, you could be at fault if something goes wrong.
Vehicles need regular check-ups to ensure they are safe to drive. If poor maintenance leads to an accident, you might be held liable. Our Maryland auto accident attorney can help you if you’re facing issues related to vehicle maintenance.
Following Too Closely
Following another vehicle too closely can result in a serious accident. If you are not able to stop quickly enough to avoid crashing into another vehicle, you may be liable for any resulting damage caused by the crash. However, there are many instances where drivers “brake check” others or even merge into their lanes without providing enough space, causing an accident.
Although it may appear that following too closely was the cause, proving otherwise can help you recover compensation by shifting liability. If you are being accused of causing an accident due to following too closely, you should contact a car accident lawyer in Maryland as soon as possible.
Making Illegal Turns
Making an illegal turn at an intersection or entering a road can lead to a serious accident. These accidents may disrupt the flow of traffic and can cause a serious crash. In these cases, you may be liable for any resulting damages.
This is particularly true if you turn at a no-turn intersection or make a U-turn in a prohibited zone. Our Maryland car accident attorney can investigate the accident and find evidence that may show that another driver is responsible in these cases.
Legal Misunderstandings
Finally, legal misunderstandings can lead to liability. Many people have misconceptions about who is at fault or their responsibilities after an accident. Understanding the law is crucial, and sometimes, what you think you know might not be accurate. A Maryland auto accident attorney can help clarify these misunderstandings and guide you through the legal process.
What Happens If I Am Found Liable For a Crash?
If someone is trying to place the blame on you after a car accident, you could be held responsible for any resulting damages, including medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. Even if you believe the accident wasn’t your fault, proving your case can be challenging without legal help.
The consequences of being found liable can be serious, so it’s important to take action immediately. Contacting a Maryland car accident attorney can help protect your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong defense to ensure you’re not unfairly blamed for the crash.
Contact Our Maryland Car Accident Attorney Today
If you’re dealing with a car crash and facing potential liability, getting the right help is essential. Our team at Mooney Law is here for you. Contact our Maryland car accident attorney for a free consultation.
We can help you pursue justice and fight for fair compensation. Don’t face this challenging situation alone—let us help you take legal action and get the support you need.
