However, a single collision on I-270 can exceed standard policy limits within minutes. You may face personal financial exposure that threatens your lifestyle when damages surpass your coverage.

The limits of standard high-limit policies

Premium auto policies often cap liability at 500,000 dollars per incident. This amount seems sufficient until a catastrophic injury case reaches a courtroom. Serious vehicle  accidents often involve traumatic brain injuries or lifelong care requirements. These medical costs easily climb into the millions of dollars. Insurance companies set these caps to protect their own profits rather than your specific net worth. A standard policy only covers a small portion of a significant jury award.

Strategic safety nets for catastrophic collisions

You must build a stronger financial defense to protect your family and assets. Proactive planning helps you identify gaps before a crisis occurs. Here are a few things to consider:

• Match your umbrella coverage limit to your total net worth and future earnings.
• Add Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist endorsements to your umbrella layer.
• Align the effective dates of your primary and secondary policies.

Maryland law allows these specific protections to safeguard your wealth from negligent drivers. These strategic steps prevent insurance companies from exploiting coverage loopholes after a crash.

A skilled advocate to protect your financial future

Dealing with a high-stakes claim requires an analytical approach and aggressive negotiation. A knowledgeable attorney can identify every available insurance layer to maximize your protection. They ensure that providers honor their contracts while you focus on your professional responsibilities. Protecting your legacy demands a legal strategy that accounts for every technical detail.

The people affected by a rear-end crash may need to repair a vehicle or buy a new one. They may need to cover medical treatment costs and find a way to recoup lost wages. Before a person can request compensation, they first need to establish that someone else was at fault for a collision.

How can people prove fault after a rear-end wreck?

Either driver may have made a mistake

Rear-end collisions are usually the result of one of several specific driving errors. Frequently, fault lies with the driver of the rear vehicle. They may have tailgated the other vehicle by failing to leave adequate following distance.

Getting too close to another vehicle makes it impossible to slow down or stop in time when traffic conditions change suddenly. Distraction on the part of the rear driver can also cause a rear-end crash, as they may not notice the vehicle in front of them stopping until they hit it.

The driver in the front vehicle could also be at fault. Motorists can cause rear-end crashes when they cut others off in traffic. Merging into another lane or turning abruptly in front of another vehicle can leave the other driver without adequate time to respond.

The driver in front could also be at fault due to the failure to use their turn signals or to properly maintain their vehicle. Those who don’t indicate an intent to turn could end up struck by others when they suddenly slow down. Those who let their brake lights or turn signals burn out could leave others unaware of their intentions.

Reporting the misconduct or negligence of another driver to police officers can help victims protect their right to request compensation after a car crash. Both insurance claims and personal injury litigation require a determination of fault. Those who understand what may have caused a recent wreck are in a better position to advocate for themselves and hold others accountable for their questionable choices.

Distracted driving is a well-known safety issue. People often see other drivers with their phones in their hands and understand that digital distraction is relatively common and highly dangerous. What motorists may not understand is that distraction may be more common than they realize, in part because it involves more than just mobile phones and similar devices.

Distraction isn’t always digital

Although many people automatically associate distracted driving with electronic devices, distraction can involve numerous activities. Eating a meal while driving is a form of distraction. Adjusting the radio and singing along to songs can cause distraction as well.

Conversations with passengers, daydreams and even reaching for items in the backseat can constitute distracted driving. If people take their hands off the wheel, look away from the road ahead or mentally focus their attention on other matters, their distraction affects their driving capabilities.

They increase their reaction times as well as the possibility that they might overlook safety issues. When distracted drivers cause collisions, they are usually responsible for the harm their choices cause others.

Requesting compensation for property damage losses and injury expenses can help victims impacted by preventable distracted driving collisions. A driver at fault for a wreck must provide insurance coverage or could face a personal injury lawsuit if they do not have adequate coverage.

Parents, educators and communities may not always realize how much thought and regulation go into making every ride as safe as possible. Understanding some hidden truths about school buses can help parents feel more confident about their children’s daily commute.

1. The unique design of school buses minimizes risks

Their bright yellow color is not just iconic; it makes them easily visible on the road in different weather and lighting conditions. The elevated seating position gives drivers a better view of the road while also keeping students above the direct line of most collisions. 

The interior is designed with compartmentalization in mind, meaning closely spaced seats with high, energy-absorbing backs that help protect children during sudden stops or crashes. 

2. Strict regulations and professional training matter

Drivers undergo specialized training that prepares them for: 

• Handling large vehicles
• Managing young passengers 
• Responding to emergencies 

Beyond the drivers, school districts and transportation companies must conduct regular inspections, helping to ensure buses meet safety standards at all times. 

3. On-board and surrounding safety practices protect students

School buses are equipped with flashing lights and stop-sign arms that alert other motorists when children are boarding or disembarking. These features create a controlled environment around the bus, signaling drivers to stop and allow children to cross safely. 

Inside the bus, rules about staying seated, avoiding distractions and listening to the driver are reinforced to keep order and minimize risks. Even seating arrangements and boarding procedures are often designed to reduce crowding and confusion. 

School buses may seem ordinary, but their safety record is the result of hidden strengths that play a part in protecting young passengers. However, the thoughtful design might not completely phase out accidents between school buses and other road users. In such predicaments, parents and learning institutions can benefit from dedicated legal help to hold the at-fault parties accountable.

• Mistake #1: Saying “I’m Sorry.” Admitting fault, even out of politeness, can be used by insurance companies to deny or minimize your claim.
• Mistake #2: Skipping a Doctor’s Visit. Even if you feel “fine” initially, symptoms of whiplash or other injuries can appear days later. Get checked immediately to protect both your health and your case.
• Mistake #3: Talking to the Other Side’s Insurer. They are not on your side. Their goal is to get you to say something they can use against you. Let us handle all communication.

Your Car is Damaged. Now What?

The injury claim isn’t the only headache. Getting your car repaired or replaced can be a battle, too. At Lewis & Tompkins, we make sure you get a fair deal on your property damage claim. We’ll fight to ensure:

• Your car is fixed properly with NO old or aftermarket parts.
• You receive the full market value if your car is totaled.
• The insurance company doesn’t lowball your claim
  

Expert Advocacy with NO Upfront Cost

Legal fees shouldn’t add to your anxiety. Our promise is simple: You pay absolutely NOTHING unless we WIN your case. We front all the costs and only get paid when we secure compensation for you.

Your well-being is our priority, and that includes your financial recovery

Ready to Focus on Healing?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Washington D.C., Maryland, or Virginia, don’t go through the legal process alone.

We’re here to provide the fearless advocacy and hands-on support you need.
 

📞 Call Us Today: 202-296-0666

Distracted driving is never appropriate, regardless of how long a person has been driving. Drivers should always ensure that they’re giving their full attention to the duties they have while they’re behind the wheel. 

What’s considered a distraction?

Anything that takes a driver’s mind, eyes or hands away from driving is considered a distraction. In some cases, distractions can encompass two or three of those. It depends on what the driver is doing. 

Some drivers don’t realize that the things they don’t think twice about doing while they’re driving are actually distractions. For example, looking at billboards on the side of the road is a visual distraction since the driver has to look away from the road. It can also be a cognitive distraction if the driver is thinking about what the billboard says, so they can decide if they want to contact or visit the business being advertised.

Why is distracted driving dangerous?

Distracted driving is dangerous because it doesn’t take long for a distraction to lead to a crash. Vehicles that are traveling at 55 miles per hour will travel the full length of a football field in just five seconds. During that time, the vehicle isn’t being adequately controlled if the driver is distracted. 

Thousands of people are killed and hundreds of thousands are injured each year in distracted driving crashes. If you’re one of those who were injured in this type of wreck or the next of kin of someone who died in one, you may opt to explore the option of seeking compensation for the financial damages in the crash. Working with someone familiar with these matters may be beneficial for these victims. 

What rights do you have after a drunk driving accident?

Maryland law provides several rights to accident victims. These rights do not change based on the at-fault driver’s status. You can seek to claim for your injuries and damages. These include:

• Medical expenses: You can get covered for hospital bills, physical therapy and ongoing treatment.
• Lost wages: You should get compensation for missed work and lost income.
• Property damage: The at-fault driver should be responsible for repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle.
• Pain and suffering: You can claim compensation for the physical as well as mental pain you experienced from the accident.

Maryland follows a fault-based insurance system, which means you can file a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault driver. You can also file a lawsuit if both parties cannot reach a fair settlement. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Law outlines the rules for insurance coverage and liability in car accidents

Can a prominent driver afford a better defense?

High-profile individuals often have more resources to defend themselves. Insurance companies might work harder to minimize payouts when dealing with a wealthy defendant. An experienced attorney understands these tactics. They will strive to protect your rights and build a strong case on your behalf so you can receive fair compensation for your injuries. Legal representation gives you confidence in court and ensures you can tell your side of the story regardless of the other driver’s resources.

How can you even beat the odds against someone prominent?

Understanding your rights is the first step. Successfully pursuing a claim against a well-resourced defendant can be challenging. Cases involving motor vehicle accidents typically involve complicated legal procedures and negotiations with insurance companies. Consulting with an attorney helps ensure you understand the process and protect your interests. They can assess how much damage you have and claim the compensation you deserve.

Both parties might share responsibility

You can pursue compensation from multiple parties if you get into a ridesharing accident. The driver generally holds primary responsibility since they were behind the wheel. As independent contractors, drivers must maintain their own insurance coverage for personal driving.

Personal policies usually kick in if they get into an accident while driving outside work hours. Meanwhile, special rideshare insurance policies help fill the gaps between individual and company policies.

Companies like Uber and Lyft also carry special insurance that kicks in during active rides. The companies’ coverage often provides higher limits than a personal auto policy. This matters if you face severe injuries and major medical bills.

What to do right after a ridesharing crash

Your actions immediately following the accident can strengthen your case. Aside from seeking medical care right away, it’s important to do the following, too:

• Take photos of vehicle damage, injuries and the accident scene
• Screenshot your ride details from the app
• Get contact information from witnesses
• Report the accident through the ridesharing app
• Save all your medical records and bills

Quick action helps you preserve crucial evidence that you can later use to build your case.

Getting the compensation you deserve

Ridesharing accident claims involve multiple insurance policies and complex liability issues. But don’t let these challenges stop you from seeking fair compensation for your injuries.

Working with an experienced personal injury attorney can make the process less stressful. Your lawyer can help you determine which parties to hold responsible and fight to protect your rights every step of the way.

Whether you’re behind the wheel of a high-end car or involved in an accident with one, understanding this dynamic is crucial for managing the aftermath of a collision.

How luxury cars can affect claims

Luxury cars can make accident claims more expensive in a few ways:

• Higher repair costs: Expensive parts and labor for high-end cars often result in steeper repair bills.
• Advanced technology: Sophisticated safety features in these vehicles can complicate damage assessments.
• Perceived value: A luxury car’s worth can influence settlement negotiations.

In Maryland, the law requires at-fault drivers to compensate others for damages they cause. A small bump that might cost $2,000 to fix on a regular car could easily cost over $10,000 on a luxury vehicle.

What to do after an accident

If you’re in a crash here, consider taking steps such as:

• Documenting everything.
• Getting a police report.
• Seeking medical attention.
• Consulting a motor vehicle accident attorney.

Maryland follows a contributory negligence rule. You may be barred from recovering damages if you’re found even 1% at fault.

More than just the car’s price tag

While luxury cars can inflate claim values, other factors may also influence them:

• Who’s driving: Affluent residents may have better access to legal resources.
• Insurance coverage: High-net-worth individuals often carry higher insurance limits.
• Property damage: Accidents near Bethesda’s upscale businesses or homes can involve costly property damage.

Luxury cars can affect accident claims but aren’t the only factor. How badly you’re hurt and your injury’s long-term effects are still critical in deciding how much compensation you might get.

Your health and safety should be your top priority after an accident. Once you’ve taken care of any injuries, consider seeking legal advice. Whether you drive a luxury car or just share the road with them, understanding how these vehicles can change claim values will help you make better choices in an accident.

Several factors that can render an individual a dangerous driver. When it comes to teenagers, this includes the following:

• Increased use of technology while driving
• Inexperience
• Driving at night when visibility is reduced
• Speeding
• Drug and alcohol use
• Heightened distractions

Any one of these issues can lead to a devastating collision. So, what can you do to keep yourself safe?

How to stay safe around teen drivers

It’s going to be hard to tell when you’re driving near a teenager. However, you can implement these practices to help keep yourself safe at all times:

• Follow traffic laws.
• Expect the worst from other drivers.
• Always have an exit plan when surrounded by other vehicles.
• Stay alert and refrain from distractions.
• Give yourself plenty of following distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.
• Move over if the vehicle behind you is following too closely.

What if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a teenager?

If you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by a teen, then you may want to consider legal action. A personal injury lawsuit against them and their parents could allow you to recover the compensation you need. So, don’t be hesitant to act on your rights. It may be the only way to reclaim your life after being hurt in a devastating car accident.

Top reasons why teenagers can be dangerous drivers

There are several factors that can render an individual a dangerous driver. When it comes to teenagers, this includes the following:

• Increased use of technology while driving
• Inexperience
• Driving at night when visibility is reduced
• Speeding
• Drug and alcohol use
• Heightened distractions

Any one of these issues can lead to a devastating collision. So, what can you do to keep yourself safe?

How to stay safe around teen drivers

It’s going to be hard to tell when you’re driving near a teenager. However, you can implement these practices to help keep yourself safe at all times:

• Follow traffic laws.
• Expect the worst from other drivers.
• Always have an exit plan when surrounded by other vehicles.
• Stay alert and refrain from distractions.
• Give yourself plenty of following distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.
• Move over if the vehicle behind you is following too closely.

What if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a teenager?

If you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by a teen, then you may want to consider legal action. A personal injury lawsuit against them and their parents could allow you to recover the compensation you need. So, don’t be hesitant to act on your rights. It may be the only way to reclaim your life after being hurt in a devastating car accident.

Identifying damages

Damages consist of the losses you have suffered as a result of your injuries. Some of these losses can be easy to identify. You may have invoices from repair shops for the damage to your vehicle, or even help from your insurance company to identify the amounts if your vehicle was totaled in the accident. Medical bills are easy to add up too – and those bills can stack up fast.

But, what if your injuries are so severe that you will need medical treatment for months or even years to come? What if you will never fully recover? How has your quality of life been impacted by the injuries you suffered in the car accident? How much income did you lose from missed work due to the injuries and subsequent need for medical treatment? These questions, among many others, could also play a role in determining the amount of damages you seek in a personal injury lawsuit.

Our readers shouldn’t forget that the damages portion of a personal injury lawsuit must be proven as well – just like proving the negligence or recklessness of the party that caused the accident. The damages in your personal injury case must be identifiable and provable.

Roadside workers are so vulnerable and need to trust that drivers will reduce their speed in work zones as they are legally obligated to do. Given driver behaviors, it can be a harrowing time on the job.

Recently, Maryland has moved forward with an increase in how much it will cost drivers who speed in work zones. In addition, it is trying to take steps to stop drivers from street racing and exhibitions that place people in danger. Still, recklessness is an ingrained problem that people need to think about and know what options they have after there has been an accident.

Fines for work zone speeding have doubled

To try and dissuade drivers from speeding when they are approaching and passing work zones, fines are doubling from $40 to $80. This is just the start as it will potentially increase to $1,000 in 2025. The accident in which the workers lost their lives involved two vehicles whose speeds surpassed 100 mph.

Following that crash, lawmakers got to work on trying to find ways to make work zones safer. Toward that end, there will be automated cameras to catch speeding drivers and raise the penalties they face. Statistically, there were more than 1,100 work zone accidents in the state in 2023. That came to an average of 3.5 each day.

The most recent numbers for the first four months of 2024 show that this continues to be a problem as there were more than 400 accidents. Ninety-four people were injured, but survived. Three people lost their lives. As part of the new initiatives, law enforcement has been out in force to cite drivers who violate the law, issue warnings and order them to make repairs.

This happens at the same time as new penalties will be assessed to those who take part in street racing. The new law will go into effect at the same time as the speeding law for work zones begins. Those who are caught behaving in this way in the state will need to appear in court. They could be jailed for as long as one year and fined $1,000.

These attempts at making the roads safer are a positive step that might yield good results. Still, despite the new laws and harsher penalties, there are bound to be drivers who continue to flout the law and ignore the potential punishments they will be subject to for these violations. When accidents happen, people who were injured need to be prepared for what they might face in the future.

After an auto accident due to recklessness, there are options

Anyone on the state roads in any capacity needs to think about what they will do if there is an auto accident due to another person’s recklessness. The medical costs, lost income, long-term challenges, and the physical, mental and emotional aftereffects of an auto accident can change a person’s life.

When moving forward, it is vital to know how to proceed and recover fully for all that was lost. This requires being prepared, having a grasp of the law and what can be done to hold reckless, dangerous drivers accountable.

All of that can leave you in a dire predicament. In additional to finding a way to cope with your pain and suffering and your newly imposed limitations, you’ll have to figure out how to get by on a day-to-day basis.

Unless you have extensive savings, this can be difficult to do. In fact, many car accident victims’ bank accounts are quickly drained in the aftermath of their wreck, leaving them uncertain of where to turn for help paying their bills. Although that can be a stressful position to be in, there are ways to find support as you navigate the complexities of your recovery.

How to pay your bills after a serious car accident

A successful personal injury claim might give you the long-term financial stability that you need to focus on your recovery and reclaim your normal life, but a car accident case can take some time to play out. In the meantime, you may want to consider pursuing the following options so that you have the financial resources you need to get by while your personal injury case plays out:

• Talk to family and friends: Many accident victims turn to their network of family and friends for support. These individuals may be able to help you cut costs, such as by giving you a free place to stay during your recovery, and they may be willing to provide you with more direct financial support when you’re unable to pay for your basic needs. If you feel uncomfortable asking family and friends for help, consider creating borrowing agreements so that everyone knows their responsibilities and obligations when it comes to borrowing and paying back money.
• Ask the hospital to give you a break: Your medical bills are going to quickly come due. If you don’t have the money to pay them but leave them unaddressed, then you could be subjected to collection efforts. You don’t want that. Be open and honest with your medical provider about your inability to immediately pay your bills. Once they know that you’re pursuing a legal claim, they may be willing to hold off on collecting owed debt until your lawsuit resolves, so long as you agree to pay them back quickly after you receive compensation from your case.
• Take out a lawsuit loan: As a last resort, you can consider taking out a lawsuit loan. These loans are meant to bridge the gap between your accident and the resolution of your case, but they often carry high interest rates. And, you’ll have to pay back the loan and interest regardless of how your case plays out. In other words, taking out one of these loans can be risky.

Don’t lose out on what you need to get through your recovery

There’s a lot to think about in the aftermath of your car accident. In your haste to get through the legal process, you might be driven to resolve your claim as fast as you can. But you should be careful when it comes to navigating your case, as you don’t want to lose out on the compensation that you deserve even though you need money fast.

So, as you prepare to head into your personal injury case, think about what it is that you want out of your claim and diligently work to gather the evidence you need to be successful on your claim. Hopefully then you can secure financial stability, advocate for your needs, and secure the future you need to successfully recover from the harm that’s been caused to you.

This is believed to be due to myriad factors including the prevalence of distracted drivers, the number of drivers choosing to exceed the speed limit, drivers who are under the influence, and the exponential rise in larger vehicles hitting the road. People are frequently warned to be vigilant and predictable when they are out walking.

Unfortunately, that does not always result in avoiding an auto-pedestrian crash and its ramifications.

The Governors Highway Safety Association tracks statistics for these and other types of accidents. It released its preliminary numbers for 2023 and there are worrisome signs for Maryland pedestrians. People need to be cognizant of this while also knowing what options are available if they or a loved one are hurt in a crash.

Pedestrian deaths have been rising incrementally in Maryland

In its report, the GHSA has issued information regarding pedestrian accidents and fatalities. It used the first six months of 2023 with the full year’s statistics to be analyzed and released later.

It said that during those six months, there were 75 pedestrian fatalities. This is a slight uptick from the 71 for the same duration in 2022. However, the first six months from 2019 through 2023 saw an incremental rise in pedestrian deaths.

This was not the case nationally; 30 of the 50 states – along with Washington, D.C. – saw a decrease between 2022 and 2023.

Auto-pedestrian accidents leave people in danger of serious injuries

Because pedestrians do not have any protection, a pedestrian-car accident can have significant consequences physically, personally and financially not just for the victim, but for their family as well. To address the problems that will arise, it is important to know how the accident happened, the extent of the injuries and how it will impact the person’s future. Being aware of the alternatives to make a full recovery in every aspect may require experienced guidance.

This was illustrated recently in an accident that involved approximately 23 vehicles on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge.

Many were injured and required hospitalization

According to the Maryland Transportation Authority, a 2018 blue Honda Civic was speeding and driving erratically on the bridge on a recent Saturday morning. This may have caused an initial crash, which then caused various secondary crashes.

The result was a multi-vehicle accident that took first responders’ hours to clean up, while drivers were stuck in traffic on the bridge.

Several people were injured in the crash, with some of the injuries being reported as serious, and sent to local hospitals. Authorities are looking for anyone who may have witnessed the accident.

Determining the cause of this type of accident can be tricky

Speeding and driving recklessly on a large bridge filled with traffic is an example of negligent driving. In accidents like this one, it is important to determine exactly how the accident started and how much negligence was involved.

If the driver of the Honda Civic was the initial cause of the accident, it could be difficult to determine if other drivers were negligent. The Honda Civic might have crashed into a vehicle, but if that vehicle was traveling too close behind another vehicle and smashed into them, that driver could be found negligent, as well.

The drivers who were injured in this accident might be able to recover compensation for their injuries through a personal injury action.

The amount of compensation received depends on proving damages, but it may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.

Know where to turn after a car accident

After a major accident, you may feel overwhelmed and confused about what to do next. It is important to know the next steps to take and how to start the personal injury claim process.

In some cases, for example, the responsible driver may not have a lot of insurance or other means to pay compensation for the injuries they caused.

There are other ways an injured motorist can receive compensation in these cases. For example, the victim may have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage available to them. They may also have personal injury protection benefits available to them.

But there is still a good chance that at the end of the day, a victim suffering from serious or catastrophic injuries will have to figure out how they are going to cover their medical bills, lost income and other expenses.

Those in the greater D.C. area facing this situation may want to consider whether others are also legally responsible for their injuries.

Vehicle manufacturers may be liable for injuries

For example, many motor vehicle accidents happen, and many injuries occur, because of flaws in the design of the vehicle. In other situations, a manufacturing error may make a vehicle unsafe.

The law surrounding what is called product liability can be complicated.  The basic idea is that companies which manufacture, distribute or sell products, including motor vehicles and their component parts, are responsible for making sure their products are safe.

Specifically, manufacturers must make sure they design their products with safety in mind and that they assemble their products properly. They must also ensure that customers get adequate warnings and instructions on how to use the product safely.

If a dangerous vehicle injures a motorist, then the motorist may be able to pursue compensation from the vehicle’s manufacturer.

Whether it is appropriate to pursue a claim will depend on the circumstances, but injured victims in Maryland should explore a product liability claim along with their other legal options.

Although that can be stressful to think about, there are steps that you can take to try to keep your child safe.

How to teach your child to be a safe driver

There’s a lot that goes into building a defensive driver. Here are some skills that you’ll want to teach your child to keep them safe out on the road:

• Allow for at least three seconds’ worth of distance between yourself and the driver in front of you, which will allow your child to take evasive maneuvers to avoid an accident or safely come to a stop when the vehicle in front of them slams on the brakes.
• Frequently check mirrors and surrounding to remain cognizant of vehicles and hazards that are in their car’s vicinity.
• Assume that other drivers will operate in erratic and unpredictable ways.
• Obey the speed limit, even when it feels too slow.
• Avoid distractions, which may include putting a phone in the glove box or center console to avoid temptation.
• Identify escape routes when surrounded by other vehicles.

What should you do if your child is hurt in a car accident?

If, despite your best efforts, your child is injured by a negligent driver, then you should consider taking legal action. A successful personal injury lawsuit can lead to the recovery of much needed compensation, which could offset the losses that you and your child are facing. So, if you find yourself in this position, then you may want to consider how to best pursue a personal injury claim that protects your and your child’s interests.

The latest numbers for the nation’s capital show that the number of fatalities on the city’s roads has been increasing to levels not seen since 2007. As legislators and law enforcement seek solutions, those who are using the roads as drivers, passengers, bicyclists and pedestrians need to be aware of the causes to try and stay safe.

Road fatalities have risen substantially from 2022

The most recent numbers show that there has been a 60% increase in D.C. road fatalities when compared to the same time in 2022. This information comes to light while the city has taken specific steps to try and address the problem through the Vision Zero program.

Vision Zero’s objective is to prevent all motor vehicle fatalities. While this is ambitious, some of the steps such as more bicycle lanes, reducing speed limits and installing speed cameras have shown promise. Still, the latest count for the city shows 45 people have lost their lives in a collision. Seventeen were pedestrians and two were riding bicycles.

In the immediate aftermath of Vision Zero being implemented, there was improvement from 54 fatalities in 2007 to 26 in 2015. Unfortunately, the numbers have been rising steadily to the current point. There are still plans in place to alter traffic patterns, add speed cameras and reduce speed limits.

Those impacted by an auto accident have rights

Given the rise in auto fatalities of all kinds, people must be vigilant when they take to the road in any capacity. Despite the attempts at enhancing safety and more automobiles being equipped with advanced technology to prevent auto accidents, the dangers persist. It is vital for people who have been hurt or lost a loved one to know what steps are available to pay for medical care, lost wages and other challenges.

Maryland’s road fatalities the worst in 16 years

The most recent count from the Maryland Department of Transportation shows there have been 456 road deaths in Maryland in 2023. This was as of early October meaning the numbers will undoubtedly grow. In 2022, there were 564 overall deaths. This year, the state is trending toward its worst year since 2007 when 615 people lost their lives on state roadways.

Surprisingly, 2020 saw a spike despite the national crisis leading to fewer people driving. That year, there were 39 more deaths than in 2019. Insiders say that many of these accidents are occurring on holiday weekends when there are more vehicles on the road.

Various organizations have received increased funding to try and stem the tide. It will focus on enforcing the traffic laws and giving law enforcement greater time and tools to address the issue. A major factor is the way people are driving.

Speeding, texting and driving and driving under the influence are major challenges that are difficult to overcome even with greater vigilance and education. Speed is one of the biggest concerns as the faster a vehicle is going, the worse the impact is. Five years ago, one accident in 243 led to a fatality. By 2022, it was one in 203.

There are steps to take after an auto accident

Auto accidents happen without warning. They can be life-changing for people in involved and their family members. Frequently, it is due to driver recklessness and misbehavior. The medical costs, lost wages and long-term implications are extensive.

People will need to think about their future when they have been hurt or lost a loved one in a crash. Given the statistics showing how accidents are on the rise, avoiding collisions is a priority. Unfortunately, some accidents cannot be prevented no matter what. A full understanding of the options available is essential in the immediate aftermath to make a full recovery in every way.