Getting hurt in an accident is scary and confusing. Whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or another kind of injury, you may be thinking about filing a personal injury claim.
In Maryland, the law gives you the right to seek compensation if someone else caused your injuries. But making mistakes during your case can cost you time, money, and even your chance to win. This blog will help you understand what not to do when you’re injured, so you can protect your rights and get the help you deserve.
If you’ve been injured and need legal guidance, contact a Baltimore personal injury lawyer from The Bishop Law Group.
Mistake #1: Waiting Too Long to Get Medical Help
Why It Hurts Your Case
After an accident, some people wait to see a doctor. They may think the pain will go away or worry about the cost. But in Maryland, waiting too long can hurt your case.
Insurance companies may argue your injury wasn’t serious or wasn’t caused by the accident.
What You Should Do
Get checked out by a doctor right away—even if you feel okay. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, don’t show symptoms immediately. Your medical records are proof that you were hurt and needed care.
For a free legal consultation, call (410) 390-3101
Mistake #2: Not Following Your Treatment Plan
Why It Hurts Your Case
Skipping doctor visits, ignoring therapy, or stopping treatment early can make it look like your injury isn’t serious. Insurance companies may use this to lower your payment or deny your claim.
What You Should Do
Stick to your treatment plan. If something doesn’t feel right, talk to your doctor. Keep records of every visit, prescription, and therapy session.
Mistake #3: Talking Too Much to Insurance Companies
Why It Hurts Your Case
After an accident, the other person’s insurance company may call you. They might ask for a recorded statement or try to settle quickly. But they are trained to protect their company—not you. Anything you say can be used against you.
What You Should Do
Don’t talk to insurance adjusters without a lawyer. Never give a recorded statement or sign papers before getting legal advice.
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Mistake #4: Admitting Fault
Why It Hurts Your Case
Maryland follows a strict rule called contributory negligence. This means if you are even 1% at fault for the accident, you may not receive any compensation. Saying “I’m sorry” or admitting fault—even by accident—can ruin your case.
What You Should Do
Stick to the facts. Don’t guess or make statements about who caused the accident. Let your lawyer and the evidence speak for you.
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Mistake #5: Not Collecting Evidence
Why It Hurts Your Case
Without strong evidence, it’s hard to prove what happened. If you don’t take photos, get witness names, or save documents, you may lose important proof forever.
What You Should Do
If you’re able, take pictures of the scene, your injuries, and any damage. Write down what happened while it’s fresh in your mind. Save receipts, medical records, and emails or texts related to the accident.
Mistake #6: Signing Papers Without Reading Them
Why It Hurts Your Case
Some papers from insurance companies or other parties may limit your rights. You might be signing away your chance to get full compensation.
What You Should Do
Always read documents carefully. Better yet, have a lawyer review them before you sign anything.
Mistake #7: Missing the Deadline to File
Why It Hurts Your Case
Maryland law gives you three years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to sue.
What You Should Do
Talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you file on time and keep your case moving forward.
Mistake #8: Accepting a Quick Settlement
Why It Hurts Your Case
Insurance companies often offer fast settlements to save money. But these offers may not cover all your costs—especially if you need future medical care.
What You Should Do
Don’t rush. Make sure you understand the full value of your claim, including pain and suffering, lost wages, and long-term care. A lawyer can help you decide if a settlement is fair.
Mistake #9: Handling the Case Alone
Why It Hurts Your Case
Personal injury law in Maryland can be tricky. Without a lawyer, you may miss important steps or make costly mistakes.
What You Should Do
Most Maryland personal injury lawyers offer free consultations and only get paid if you win your case. You have nothing to lose by getting legal help—and a lot to gain.
Maryland Personal Injury Stats and Facts (As of 2024)
Car Accidents in Maryland
In 2024, Maryland crash data showed approximately 110,401 total motor vehicle crashes, with over 41,500 injuries reported statewide. This marks a slight increase from the previous year and highlights the ongoing risks on Maryland roads.
- Fatal crashes: 577
- Injury crashes: 28,577
- Property damage crashes: 81,247
- Common contributing factors included distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving. Distracted driving alone accounted for over 14,000 injury crashes in 2023, and the trend continued into 2024.
Final Thoughts
Getting hurt is hard enough. Don’t make it harder by making mistakes that could cost you your case. In Maryland, the law is strict, and insurance companies are tough. But with the right steps—and the right help—you can protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured, remember:
- Get medical help fast.
- Follow your treatment plan.
- Don’t talk to insurance companies alone.
- Never admit fault.
- Collect and save evidence.
- Don’t sign anything without legal advice.
- File your claim on time.
- Don’t accept a low settlement.
- Get a lawyer to guide you.
For trusted legal support, contact The Bishop Law Group and schedule a free consultation.
Call or text (410) 390-3101 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
