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You’re in a Car Accident with a Marlyand Police Officer. Now What?

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Over 5,000 passengers and onlookers have been fatally injured in police chases since 1979, including the elderly, young children, and teenage drivers. Thousands more have suffered traumatic injuries getting into a car accident caused by a reckless police chase.

If you or a family member have been injured in a car accident with a police officer in Maryland, you must act swiftly. In addition to the standard regulations in legal action, your lawsuit is ruled by the limitations of the Maryland Tort Claims Act under the Maryland Code State Government Title § 12–101.

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At The Law Offices of Hillel Traub, Baltimore traffic violations lawyer Hillel Traub can advise you on whether you have a sufficient claim caused by a car accident with a police officer and how to press charges if the accident occurred in Maryland. Further, suppose the police officer cites you with a traffic violation that led to the accident. In that case, Attorney Hillel Traub can advocate for you against those charges to potentially get them dropped.

Can I Sue a Police Officer for Damages If They Caused My Car Accident?

In Maryland, there are specific laws that regulate the legal responsibility of the State and local governments. If your car accident occurred while a police officer was in the course of an emergency, for example, the police officer is covered under the immunity provided by Maryland Code § 5–639. With very few exceptions, the Department of Transportation and other government entities are protected from civil lawsuits.

Before you can sue a police officer for any damages caused in a car accident, the courts must first establish whether the government policy covers the police department. When a police officer can be sued, the claim is restricted to limited insurance coverage.

How Can I Pursue an Injury Claim If a Police Officer Caused My Injuries?

Under the Maryland Torts Claim Act, you must act quickly to sue a police officer or any government employee for damages in a car accident. While Maryland’s statute of limitations allows victims three years to pursue a personal injury lawsuit, they have just one year to pursue legal action involving the state or local government. After one year has passed, accident victims lose their right to sue.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident with a police officer in Maryland, it is critical that you contact an experienced Baltimore traffic attorney immediately to learn your legal options.

What Damages Can I Recover After a Car Accident in Maryland?

After being injured a car accident caused by the negligence of another person or entity, you can pursue compensation for economic damages that include the total monetary value of losses caused by the collision, such as:

  • Medical bills
  • Loss of wages
  • Loss of future wages
  • Property damage

Additionally, you can pursue non-economic damages that are more challenging to value, as these losses are subjective by nature. Non-economic damages include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Mental anguish
  • Emotional distress

In exceptional cases, punitive damages are awarded at the court’s discretion to punish the defendant for egregiously bad conduct and extreme negligence while deterring others from acting similarly. For example, a drunk driver may be required to pay punitive damages after their blatant disregard for human life caused them to get behind the wheel while intoxicated.

Damage Caps on Lawsuits Against the Government

There are strict caps on the amount you can recover against a police officer or government entity in Maryland. Under the Maryland Tort Claims Act, a police officer or government employee cannot be held liable for more than $400,000 for injuries resulting from a single accident or $800,000 for the total claim resulting from the accident. Unfortunately, in some circumstances, this cap requires that some car accident victims recover far less damages than they’d be awarded in a case not brought against a government entity.

Contact Top-Rated Baltimore Traffic Violations Attorney

Car accidents involving police officers in Maryland are highly complex. If you’ve been injured by law enforcement or cited with a traffic violation that caused the accident, you must contact an experienced traffic violations attorney as soon as possible.

Attorney Hillel Traub of The Law Office of Hillel Traub can help you discover all relevant damages and advocate for your right to receive compensation for your losses. Hillel Traub is dedicated to fighting minor and serious charges on behalf of his clients in the Baltimore community. As a former Assistant Attorney General for the Maryland MVA, Hillel Traub wields his understanding and successful defense experience to defend your rights, compensation, and freedom.

To schedule a free consultation with Attorney Hillel Traub to discuss your accident, complete a contact form or call (410) 835-4841.

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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.