Maryland Accident Law Blog
Tragic accidents leave families broken, hurting, and searching for answers. In Maryland, when a loved one dies in a car crash, you may have the right to bring a wrongful death claim to seek justice and financial relief. Acting quickly to protect your rights after a devastating loss can make a meaningful difference.
A recent heartbreaking accident in coastal Georgia, where a mother and her four young children lost their lives after a fiery collision on I-95, serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life on the road can be. While the Georgia authorities continue investigating what caused the crash, families in Maryland facing similar tragedies must act swiftly to preserve evidence and pursue accountability.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims After a Fatal Car Accident
In Maryland, a wrongful death claim allows close family members to seek damages when another driver’s negligence caused a loved one’s death. Filing a claim will not undo the pain, but it can ease the financial burden that often follows a fatal crash.
To succeed, you must prove that the other driver owed a duty of care, breached that duty through careless actions, and that the breach caused your loss. In the Georgia case, it remains unclear who was at fault, but an early and thorough investigation will likely reveal vital facts. In Maryland, obtaining police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction evidence is often essential to a strong case.
Proving Negligence When the Cause of a Crash is Unclear
Sometimes, as with the Georgia accident, the cause of the collision is not immediately known. In Maryland, proving negligence may involve:
- Reviewing Rental Vehicle Records: If the driver was operating a rental, maintenance and safety records may reveal mechanical failures.
- Examining Road Conditions: Weather, visibility, and roadway design could play a role.
- Investigating Driver Conduct: Fatigue, distraction, or intoxication often contribute to deadly crashes.
Working with a skilled Maryland car accident attorney ensures that no stone is left unturned. Early investigation can prevent vital evidence from disappearing, especially when vehicles are destroyed by fire, as happened in the Georgia tragedy.
What Damages Are Available After A Maryland Wrongful Death Car Accident
After a fatal car accident, families are often left grappling not only with unbearable grief but also with unexpected financial burdens. In Maryland, the law recognizes these hardships and allows certain relatives to pursue damages that reflect both the emotional and practical losses caused by a loved one’s death. You may be able to recover the cost of emergency medical care provided before death, as well as the significant expenses tied to funeral services and burial arrangements. The law also considers the long-term financial void left behind, allowing claims for the loss of income the deceased would have contributed over a lifetime. Beyond financial matters, Maryland courts acknowledge the deeper wounds—the absence of companionship, guidance, and emotional support that no amount of money can truly replace. After tragedies like the devastating crash in Georgia, where an entire family’s future was cut short, seeking full and fair compensation can offer grieving families some stability and a way to honor the lives that were lost.
Why Immediate Action Matters After a Fatal Car Accident
Maryland law limits the time you have to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Waiting too long may prevent your claim from being considered. Beyond the legal deadlines, critical evidence can disappear if you delay. Witness memories fade, surveillance footage may be erased, and physical evidence may be lost or destroyed.
Taking early steps can protect your rights and honor the memory of those you have lost. While no lawsuit can bring back a loved one, holding a negligent driver accountable can send a message that safety matters — and give your family financial support to begin healing.
Take the First Step Toward Justice After a Maryland Car Accident
If you have lost a family member in a Maryland car accident, Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers is here to stand by your side. Our firm has recovered over $90 million for our clients and is proud to be rated 10/10 on the Justia Lawyer Directory, as well as being recognized by Super Lawyers in 2024. We bring extensive experience and compassion to every wrongful death and car accident case, fighting tirelessly to help grieving families move forward.
Contact Lebowitz & Mzhen personal injury lawyers at (800) 654-1949 today to schedule a free consultation. Let our dedicated team review your case, explain your rights, and work to secure the justice your loved one deserves.