Prince George’s County Car Accident Lawyer

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. Victims often face devastating consequences, including physical injuries, an inability to work, emotional distress, and significant financial expenses. Understanding your rights and taking the necessary steps after an accident is essential to protecting your future.

If you have been injured in a car accident, you need an experienced attorney you can trust. A Prince George’s County car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King is committed to protecting your rights and securing the justice and compensation you deserve.

What Are the Most Dangerous Roads in Prince George’s County?

Prince George’s County features several major roads and highways where accidents are alarmingly frequent. These roadways are often characterized by high traffic volumes, excessive speeds, and unsafe driving behaviors, all of which contribute to a higher risk of collisions. The most dangerous roads in the area include:

John Hanson Highway (U.S. Route 50): This vital connection between Washington, D.C., and Annapolis, Maryland, sees heavy commuter traffic. Multi-vehicle accidents are common, particularly during rush hours.
Capital Beltway (I-495): Known for severe congestion and aggressive driving, the Capital Beltway is one of the region’s busiest and most accident-prone thoroughfares.
Indian Head Highway (Route 210): This heavily traveled road has a long history of severe accidents, often caused by speeding and distracted driving.
Pennsylvania Avenue (Route 4): A major commuter route, Pennsylvania Avenue frequently experiences rear-end collisions due to its stop-and-go traffic patterns.
Branch Avenue (Route 5): Rapid lane changes, abrupt merging, and heavy congestion make Branch Avenue particularly hazardous.

Staying alert, maintaining safe distances, and adhering to speed limits can help reduce the risk of accidents on these and other dangerous roadways.

What Are Common Causes of Car Accidents?

Car accidents in Prince George’s County often occur due to driver error, high traffic volumes, and excessive speeds. Some of the most common causes include:

Distracted Driving: Using a cell phone, texting, eating, or engaging in any activity that diverts attention from driving is a leading cause of accidents.
Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol impairs reaction time, focus, and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of serious collisions.
Drowsy Driving: Sleep-deprived drivers experience similar impairments to those under the influence of alcohol, making them a danger on the road.
Reckless Driving: Behaviors, such as speeding, frequent lane changes, and ignoring traffic signals, can lead to severe accidents.
Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely reduces the time and distance needed to avoid a collision.
Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and ice create slick surfaces, reducing tire traction and making it harder to control a vehicle.

Distracted driving is particularly prevalent in Maryland due to widespread cell phone use. Maryland law prohibits drivers from holding or using handheld devices except in emergencies. Drivers aged 18 and older must use hands-free devices if they need to make or accept calls, while teenage drivers are prohibited from using cell phones entirely.

What Injuries Are Common in Car Accidents?

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-altering conditions. Common injuries include:

Whiplash
Back and spinal cord injuries
Broken bones
Cuts and lacerations
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
Internal organ damage
Nerve damage
Mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Even seemingly minor accidents can result in significant injuries. Prompt medical attention is essential to identify and address any potential issues.

What Compensation Can I Seek for My Injuries?

After a car accident, victims may be entitled to seek compensation for economic and non-economic damages:

Economic Damages: These cover tangible financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and rehabilitation costs.
Non-Economic Damages: These include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability.

Maryland operates under a strict contributory negligence rule, which bars victims from recovering damages if they are even one percent at fault for the accident. Additionally, Maryland law requires drivers to use their Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance to cover initial medical expenses.

The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Maryland is three years from the date of the accident. Acting promptly ensures you do not lose your right to seek compensation.

How Is the Value of My Car Accident Claim Determined?

Determining the value of a car accident claim involves evaluating several factors. These include:

The severity of the accident and injuries.
Current and future medical expenses.
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity.
The long-term impact of injuries on quality of life.
Distribution of fault among the parties involved.
Strength of evidence and witness testimony.

If the case proceeds to trial, a jury will consider these factors and any arguments presented by opposing counsel to assign a monetary value to your claim.

What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Prince George’s County?

Taking the right steps after a car accident is crucial for protecting your health and your legal rights. If possible, you should:

Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the report.
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be used against you.
Document the scene by taking photographs of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any contributing factors.
Collect witness statements and contact information.
Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Retain all records related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies.
Consult an experienced Prince George’s County car accident attorney to discuss your case and explore your options for compensation.

How Can the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help?

The aftermath of a car accident can be stressful and confusing. At the Law Offices of Duane O. King, we provide compassionate and comprehensive legal support to help you navigate the claims process. Our attorney can assist you in the following ways:

Conducting a thorough investigation of the accident scene.
Reviewing police reports and other documentation.
Interviewing witnesses to gather valuable testimony.
Collaborating with accident reconstruction experts when necessary.
Negotiating with insurance companies to secure maximum compensation.
Representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Prince George’s County Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Advocates for Injured Clients

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the Law Offices of Duane O. King is here to help. With decades of experience and a proven track record of success, a Prince George’s County car accident lawyer is dedicated to holding negligent drivers accountable. Call us today at 202-331-1963 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.