Baltimore
Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

If you suffered injuries or losses in a Baltimore accident a drunk driver caused, you may feel overwhelmed as you try to handle the fallout from someone else’s dangerous choices. Dealing with the physical pain, financial burdens, and emotional strain of recovery is no small task–but you don’t have to go through it alone. 

A Baltimore drunk driving accident lawyer in TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers’ network can help you take steps toward getting the compensation you deserve. With skilled legal guidance, you can hold the responsible driver accountable and pursue justice for your losses. TopDog Law’s extensive network of personal injury attorneys in Maryland offers compassionate and strategic representation, ready to support you from day one with a free consultation.

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Your Guide to Drunk Driving in Baltimore

James Helm, Personal Injury Lawyer

Maryland’s Drunk Driving Laws and Legal Considerations

Maryland has clear drunk driving laws and legal standards for determining responsibility in a crash. By understanding the basics of these laws, you can see how a Baltimore drunk driving accident lawyer can leverage them to help you build a strong claim.

Legal BAC Limits

Maryland law sets a legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% for drivers over 21, which aligns with the national standard. However, for commercial drivers and those under 21, the limit is much stricter. For commercial drivers, the BAC limit is 0.04%, and Maryland enforces a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. Even with BAC below these limits, if a driver’s behavior indicates impairment, they can still be held accountable if their actions lead to an accident.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

A drunk driver may face criminal charges, but those charges focus on punishing the driver and don’t necessarily provide compensation for victims. A civil lawsuit, on the other hand, directly addresses your needs. By pursuing a civil case, you can seek financial recovery for your injuries and other losses. The attorneys in TopDog Law’s network can assist you with gathering the evidence needed for a strong civil claim, separate from any criminal proceedings that may be underway.

 

Injuries and Losses Resulting from Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving crashes frequently cause severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Broken bones
  • Internal organ damage
  • Burns
  • Permanent disabilities
  • Emotional trauma
  • Lost wages and income
  • Property damage
  • Medical expenses
  • Rehabilitation costs

Recovering from these injuries often comes with considerable expenses, from medical bills to lost income. In addition, the pain and suffering caused by these injuries take a serious toll on victims’ quality of life. A Baltimore drunk driving accident lawyer can evaluate the full scope of your losses and build a claim that reflects the true impact of the accident on your life.

Drunk Driving DUI Lawyer

An Attorney Can Help You Obtain Full Compensation

Working with an attorney after a drunk driving accident in Baltimore can make a significant difference in your ability to secure the compensation you need. The TopDog Law network includes attorneys experienced in personal injury claims who know how to manage these cases. They can handle the legal work while you focus on recovery.

An attorney can help you pursue a range of damages, including:

  • Medical Expenses
  • Lost Wages and Lost Earning Capacity
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Property Damage

If a drunk driver killed a close family member, our network attorneys can determine if you qualify to bring a wrongful death claim to recover compensation for funeral costs, loss of income and support, and other damages. Additionally, Maryland law allows courts to award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party in cases of extreme recklessness, such as driving under the influence.

What to Do Following a Drunk Driving Accident in Baltimore

What you do after an accident can greatly affect your case. Here’s a quick look at some immediate steps to take and what to do if the accident happened some time ago.

Steps to Take at the Accident Scene 

  • Call Emergency Services: Reporting the accident ensures that the police arrive to assess the scene and file an official report.
  • Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the vehicles, any visible injuries, and surrounding areas. If there are skid marks or debris, capture those too.
  • Collect Contact Information: Gather names and contact details from the other driver, any passengers, and witnesses. This information can support your case later on.
  • Seek Medical Care: Even if you don’t feel hurt immediately, it’s wise to get a medical evaluation, as some injuries may not be apparent right away.

Steps to Take if You’re Recovering at Home or in the Hospital

If some time has passed since the accident and you’re recovering at home or in the hospital, you can still take steps to strengthen your claim. Start by gathering medical records, notes on your injuries, and any other evidence that shows the impact of the accident on your daily life. Contacting an attorney is also critical at this stage. They can start building your case and work with you on the next steps for seeking compensation.

Personal Injury Lawyer

What's the Statute of Limitations in Maryland for Personal Injury Claims?

In Maryland, you have three years from the date of your accident to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline usually results in losing your right to recover compensation. However, some exceptions exist, so speaking with an attorney promptly helps ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.

What If the Drunk Driver Who Hit Me Doesn’t Have Insurance?

If the driver who caused your accident doesn’t have insurance, you still have options. Maryland law requires that drivers carry uninsured motorist coverage. Your own insurance policy may cover damages through this provision if the at-fault driver lacks insurance. An attorney can review your insurance policy to see how much you’re eligible to recover and work directly with your insurance company to maximize your compensation.

 

Connect with an Experienced Baltimore Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Now

James Helm with Phone and Cash Bag

TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers

Baltimore Office

1 South St, Suite 2125A
Baltimore, MD 21202

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