Maryland Accident Law Blog
Andrew’s Law, a bill that would require the Motor Vehicle Administration to let people who are applying for a driver’s license or other forms of state identification list three emergency contact numbers, has a good chance of being passed by the Maryland General Assembly, says bill sponsor Delegate Gail Bates.
Currently, the MVA does not keep contact information on file, but the new law would mandate the creation of a database with this information that police and other law enforcement officials can use to call loved ones of individuals who have been victims in car accidents, motorcycle crashes, truck collisions, pedestrian accidents, and other kinds of traffic accidents.
The bill is named after the son of Delegate Bates’s cousin. Andrew was killed in a car accident. Andrew’s wife (and next of kin) had also been in the car with him at the time of the accident and had to be taken to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center. Andrew’s parents were not notified about the deadly car crash for close to 12 hours. Instead of a call from police, they found out about the tragedy through a phone message that was left by Andrew’s brother-in-law.
Bates says that she hopes that the bill can reach the General Assembly before its adjournment on April 9.
Wrongful Death Claims
A wrongful death claim can be brought by family members who have lost a loved one in a traffic accident where a driver was negligent or careless. Even though filing a claim against a negligent party cannot bring your loved one back, it is an acknowledgement by a civil court that a wrong has been done to you. It is also a way to hold the negligent party accountable for their actions and pay for any costs associated with the wrongful death.
Husbands, wives, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers are allowed to file a wrongful death claim. Recovery can include pain and suffering, lost income and benefits, medical costs, and funeral/burial/cremation expenses. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you file your claim.
Personal Injury Claims
If you have been seriously injured in a traffic accident because another person was negligent, you can file a personal injury claim. A personal injury lawsuit holds the negligent party responsible for your recovery costs and pain and suffering. It is important that you retain the services of a personal injury attorney that has the resources and tools to thoroughly investigate the accident and prove that the other party was negligent.
The personal injury law firm of Lebowitz and Mzhen has the knowledge and tools to help you file your personal injury claim. We are trial attorneys that are experienced in helping secure successful settlements for personal injury and wrongful death cases. If necessary, we will go to court to fight for the compensation that you deserve.
Contact Lebowitz and Mzhen today for your free consultation.
Accident bill likely to pass, delegate says, Howard County Times, March 22, 2007
Related Web Resources:
State Traffic Safety Information For Year 2005, NHTSA.dot.gov
Motor Vehicle-Related Injuries, CDC.gov