Driving in Baltimore can be unpredictable, and car accidents happen every day—often leaving people with serious injuries, expensive medical bills, and time away from work or school. If you’ve been hurt in a car crash, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next, especially if you’re a driver in Maryland who doesn’t know much about car insurance.
The Bishop Law Group is here to help. We understand how difficult life can be after a car crash, and we’re committed to guiding you through the legal process. Our experienced Baltimore car accident lawyers will explain your rights, investigate who was at fault, and work to recover compensation for your injuries, lost income, and other damages. From start to finish, we’ll stand by your side and fight for the outcome you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to get the support you need. Contact The Bishop Law Group today to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve clients throughout Maryland, including Baltimore and Ocean City.
Maryland Car Insurance Basics
Car accidents are stressful enough without having to worry about insurance. But in Maryland, understanding how car insurance works is essential—especially if you’ve been injured in a crash. Insurance is meant to protect you financially, but figuring out how it applies to your situation can be confusing.
This blog will break down the basics of car insurance in Maryland, explain what happens after an accident, and help you understand your rights and options.
Maryland Is an At-Fault State
Each state in the U.S. follows its own rules when it comes to car accident claims. These rules fall into two main categories: no-fault and at-fault systems.
- No-fault states require drivers to file claims with their own insurance companies, no matter who caused the accident.
- At-fault states allow injured drivers to file claims against the person who caused the accident.
Only 12 states use the no-fault system, including Florida, Michigan, and New York. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), no-fault systems are designed to reduce lawsuits and speed up compensation. Drivers in these states must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, which helps pay for medical bills and lost wages without needing to prove fault.
Maryland, however, is an at-fault state. This means that if you’re injured in a car accident, you can file a claim against the other driver—but only if you can prove they were responsible.
This process can take time and may involve gathering evidence, speaking with witnesses, and working with insurance adjusters. While it may lead to full compensation for your losses, it can also be stressful and slow.
Maryland’s Minimum Insurance Requirements
Maryland law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance. This type of automobile, motorcycle, ATV, or RV insurance helps pay for injuries or damage you cause to others in an accident. The minimum coverage amounts are:
| Coverage Type | Minimum Amount |
| Bodily Injury (1 person) | $30,000 |
| Bodily Injury (2+ people) | $60,000 |
| Property Damage | $15,000 |
These limits may sound like a lot, but medical bills and car repairs can add up quickly. According to the National Safety Council, the average cost of a nonfatal disabling car crash in 2024 was $162,000. If the other driver’s insurance doesn’t cover all your expenses, you may need to file a lawsuit or rely on your own insurance to make up the difference.
Protecting Yourself With Extra Coverage
To stay safe financially, many drivers in Maryland choose to carry Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage. This helps protect you if the other driver’s insurance isn’t enough to cover your losses. UIM coverage can help pay for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Another important type of coverage is Uninsured Motorist (UM) insurance. Even though Maryland requires drivers to have insurance, not everyone follows the law. In fact, the Insurance Research Council estimates that 1 in 3 drivers nationwide are uninsured or underinsured. If you’re hit by someone without insurance, UM coverage can help you recover costs that would otherwise be lost.
In Maryland, UM and UIM coverage are usually bundled together. This means you’re protected whether the other driver has no insurance or just not enough.
For a free legal consultation, call (410) 390-3101
What Happens if the Other Driver Has No Insurance?
Unfortunately, some drivers don’t carry insurance. They may have let their policy lapse, couldn’t afford it, or simply ignored the law. If you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver, your options are limited.
You can try to sue the driver personally, but this often doesn’t work. People who don’t have insurance usually don’t have the money to pay for damages either. That’s why Uninsured Motorist coverage is so important—it gives you a safety net when the other driver can’t pay.
Maryland law requires insurance companies to offer UM/UIM coverage as part of every auto insurance policy. You can choose to buy more than the minimum, which is a smart move if you want better protection.
Why Insurance Claims Can Be Complicated
Even with insurance, filing a claim after an accident can be tricky. You’ll need to:
- Prove who was at fault
- Gather medical records and bills
- Deal with insurance adjusters
- Understand your policy limits
If you’re injured, this process can feel overwhelming. That’s why many people choose to work with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
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Car Accident Statistics in Maryland
To understand why insurance matters, let’s look at some recent numbers. According to the Maryland Department of Transportation:
- In 2024, more than 570 people lost their lives on Maryland roadways.
- Approximately 25% of those fatalities involved pedestrians or bicyclists.
- While the exact number of total crashes and injuries has not been published yet, MDOT reports a positive downward trend in overall traffic fatalities compared to 2023.
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Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Stay Protected
Car insurance isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a vital tool for protecting yourself and your family. In Maryland, understanding the at-fault system and knowing what coverage you have can help you make smart decisions after an accident.
Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind:
- Make sure you have the minimum required liability coverage.
- Consider adding UM/UIM coverage for extra protection.
- Know your policy limits and what they cover.
- Talk to a personal injury lawyer if you’re injured in a crash.
Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers
Accidents are unpredictable, but being informed and prepared can help you handle them with confidence. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned commuter, understanding car insurance in Maryland is one of the smartest things you can do.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to get the support you need. Call The Bishop Law Group to schedule a free consultation. We proudly serve clients throughout Maryland, including Baltimore and Ocean City.
Call or text (410) 390-3101 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
