No one wants to call the police for what appears to be a minor fender bender. But this small annoyance may lead to severe legal consequences and unexpected personal injury claims. Here is what you should know in this situation.
What does Maryland law say about calling the police after an accident?
If you are involved in a minor fender bender and no one appears injured, Maryland law generally does not require you to contact the police. However, if the accident causes injury or death, drivers typically must inform the police.
What are your legal obligations after an accident?
More than informing the police, Maryland laws emphasize helping the injured person and exchanging information with them. Here is what the law expects you to do after an accident:
- Pull over to the side of the road and stay put at the accident spot.
- Help the injured by providing them required assistance, which includes arranging medical transportation if it is requested or obviously necessary.
- Exchange names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license information and insurance policies.
If you fail to follow these procedures, you might face severe legal consequences, including fines and imprisonment
Why should you still call the police after every car accident?
While not a legal obligation, it is still better to call the police after a minor accident. Sometimes, the symptoms of an injury may not be visible immediately. You might start experiencing sharp pain once you reach your home. When you file a personal injury claim in the future, the lack of a police report may prove to be a disadvantage. Hence, calling the police for any type of car accident is a good practice.
How can a personal injury attorney help you?
An experienced personal injury attorney can review the facts of your case, explain your legal options, gather evidence and help protect you from unfair allegations. If you have sustained injuries, they can help safeguard your rights and strengthen your claim for compensation. In either case, having a legal professional in your corner is invaluable.