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Understanding Maryland’s “Move Over” Law

With numerous car accidents throughout the state, legislation tries to create new regulations to limit the number of crashes and serious injuries. In October 2022, a new law will require Maryland drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching stopped vehicles displaying warning signs. These rules extend from the “Move Over” law requiring drivers to slow down or change lanes for emergency vehicles. Signed into effect by Gov. Larry Hogan, this extension will start on October 1st.

In an effort to spread the word about this new law, the Maryland Department of Transportation announced a new awareness campaign that provides local law enforcement agencies with state grants for overtime pay between May 8th to May 17th. During these times, Officers will heavily enforce speeding violations and violations of the “move over” law. They will also post educational and informative content on their social media platforms and other locations to help spread awareness of these new changes.

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What Is Maryland’s New “Move Over” Law?

When an emergency vehicle uses its visual signals while stopped on the highway, Maryland’s “Move Over” law requires those approaching from the vehicle’s rear to change lanes or slow down. In some cases, it may be dangerous or impossible for you to move over to the next lane. For those unable to move over, the law requires that you slow down to a reasonable and safe speed.

This law keeps those outside their vehicles safe from unexpected traffic accidents while performing their jobs. The new law taking effect on October 1st enacts the “Move Over” law for all vehicles stopped on the side of the road and using emergency signals. Mayland’s legislation hopes that these new changes will help limit severe accidents.

What to Do if Another Vehicle Hits You While You’re on the Side of the Road

If your front tire bursts or your vehicle loses power, you’ll need to turn on your hazard lights and move to the side of the highway to assess the problem. If another car hits you, you may suffer severe injuries. Consider the following steps you may take after another vehicle hits you while you’re on the side of the road:

  • Check for injuries: Your main priority is your health and safety. Once you assess your injuries and determine whether you need immediate medical attention, you’ll want to check on anyone involved in the accident to see if they need medical care.
  • Call the police: After you’ve contacted emergency medical care or determined that no one requires immediate assistance, you’ll want to call your local law enforcement. They’ll assess the situation and document the accident.
  • Collect driver’s information: Exchanging information like driver’s license, insurance information, and other important identification is necessary when filing a claim with your insurance.
  • Gather evidence: Taking pictures and videos of the accident’s scene, any injuries, the surrounding area, and property damage can significantly help when filing your claim. A police report and witness testimony also work as compelling evidence.
  • Talk with your lawyer: Your lawyer will have the knowledge and resources to guide you through both the legal and medical aftermath of a crash. You’ll want to have someone with experience negotiating and representing your claim.

While the new law hopes to protect and limit these accidents, there may be those who neglect to follow the rules. If you suffer severe harm because of someone else’s recklessness, contact your lawyer as soon as possible.

Contact a Reliable Maryland Attorney at the Law Office of Hillel Traub

The Law Office of Hillel Traub has an experienced car accident lawyer that can provide you with trustworthy advice and legal representation. A former lawyer from MVA, Attorney Hillel Traub dedicates his practice to making sure clients have the best possible representation for their claims. Our goal is to protect your rights and provide you with the compensation you deserve for the injuries and property damage you incur from the crash.

Learn more about how we can help your claim by calling (410) 352-7575 or filling out our contact form today.

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What Is Jewish Law Arbitration and How Does It Work?

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Always Get Same-Day Carfax Before Car Purchases in Maryland

Buying a used car can feel like a gamble. You're making a significant financial investment based on what appears on the surface, but what lies beneath could cost you thousands down the road. Vehicle history reports like Carfax and Auto Check serve as your insurance policy against costly surprises—but only if they contain the most current information available. When purchasing a vehicle in Maryland, requesting a same-day Carfax or Auto Check report isn't just recommended—it's essential. These reports can reveal critical information that determines whether you're getting a reliable vehicle or walking into a legal and financial nightmare. Why Same-Day Reports Matter Most Fresh Data Prevents Costly Oversights Vehicle history reports are constantly updated as new information becomes available from insurance companies, repair shops, and government agencies. A report that's even a week old might miss recent accident claims, title transfers, or mechanical issues that could dramatically affect the vehicle's value and safety. Same-day reports capture the most recent entries in a vehicle's history, including: Recent accident claims still being processed Last-minute title changes or liens Updated service records from authorized dealers Recent emissions or safety inspection failures Sellers Can't Hide Last-Minute Issues Some unscrupulous sellers know exactly when negative information appears on vehicle history reports. By insisting on a same-day report, you prevent situations where sellers rush to complete a sale before damaging information surfaces in the database. The High Cost of Skipping Vehicle History Reports Undisclosed Accident Damage Maryland law requires sellers to disclose known material defects, but many accidents and repairs go unreported during private sales. Without a current vehicle history report, you might unknowingly purchase a vehicle with: Structural damage affecting safety Flood damage leading to electrical problems Previous airbag deployments requiring expensive replacement Frame damage that diminishes the vehicle's integrity Title Problems That Become Your Problems Title issues can turn a seemingly great deal into a legal headache. Common problems revealed in vehicle history reports include: Salvage titles that weren't properly disclosed Outstanding liens from previous owners Title washing schemes where damaged vehicles are moved between states Odometer rollback fraud Key Red Flags to Watch For Accident History Look for multiple incidents, especially those involving structural damage. Even minor fender-benders can indicate a pattern of careless ownership or hidden damage. Title Issues Any history of salvage, flood, or lemon titles should raise immediate concerns. These designations follow the vehicle permanently and affect both safety and resale value. Mileage Discrepancies Inconsistent mileage readings between service records, inspections, and current odometer readings often indicate tampering, a federal crime that can void your investment. Service Record Gaps Long periods without recorded maintenance might suggest neglect or attempts to hide problematic repair history. Protect Yourself with Professional Legal Support Even with a thorough vehicle history report, disputes can arise after purchase. Sellers might misrepresent information, hide known defects, or engage in fraudulent practices that a standard report can't catch. If you discover that a seller in Maryland has misled you about a vehicle's condition or history, you don't have to absorb the financial loss alone. Consumer protection laws provide remedies for victims of auto dealer fraud and private party misrepresentation. When Legal Action Makes Sense The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A. has helped countless Maryland residents recover damages when vehicle purchases go wrong. Attorney Hillel Traub's experience includes cases involving: Misrepresented accident history Hidden flood or salvage damage Odometer fraud Undisclosed mechanical problems Fraudulent financing schemes Don't let a bad car purchase drain your finances or compromise your safety. Call The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A. in Baltimore, MD at 410-205-5603 for a free consultation. With over 25 years of experience and a proven track record of successful case outcomes, Attorney Traub can help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.

A Complete Guide to Maryland Car Insurance Laws After a Car Accident

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the intricacies of car insurance laws in Maryland. Whether you are a seasoned driver or new to the roads of Baltimore, being informed about your rights and responsibilities can make a significant difference in how you handle the situation and protect your interests. Understanding Maryland's Car Insurance Requirements Maryland law mandates all drivers to carry a minimum level of car insurance. This includes: Bodily Injury Liability: At least $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident. Property Damage Liability: At least $15,000 per accident. Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Equal to the bodily injury and property damage liability minimums. Personal Injury Protection (PIP): A minimum of $2,500. These requirements are designed to ensure that drivers can cover the costs of injuries and damages resulting from an accident. Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Maryland Ensure Safety: First, check for injuries and move to a safe area if possible. Call 911 if there are any injuries or significant damage. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from all parties involved as well as witnesses. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. Be honest and detailed about the incident. File a Police Report: Maryland law requires a police report for accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. A medical evaluation can help document your condition after the accident. Navigating Insurance Claims Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when they prioritize their interests over yours. Here are a few tips to protect yourself: Delay Recorded Statements: You are not required to give a recorded statement immediately. Consult with a personal injury attorney first. Evaluate Settlement Offers Carefully: Initial offers are often low. Consider all medical costs, lost wages, and long-term impacts before accepting a settlement. Choose Your Repair Shop: You have the right to select the repair shop of your choice, not just the insurer’s preferred option. Maryland's Comparative Fault Rule Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning if you are found even slightly at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering damages. This makes it crucial to carefully document the accident and consult with legal professionals to protect your rights. Why Legal Assistance Matters The complexities of car insurance laws and claims processes can make it difficult to secure fair compensation. Engaging an experienced attorney can help you navigate these challenges effectively. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A., we specialize in helping Baltimore residents with car accident claims, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way. Conclusion Understanding Maryland car insurance laws and taking the appropriate steps after an accident can significantly influence the outcome of your insurance claim. By being informed and proactive, you can better protect yourself and your financial interests. For personalized assistance and to ensure your rights are fully protected, contact us at The Law Office of Hillel Traub, P.A. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every aspect of your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.