Glen Burnie Hit-and-Run Attorney

In Maryland, drivers involved in an accident must stay at the scene, exchange information, and wait for authorities if necessary. When a driver in Glen Burnie, Maryland, leaves without fulfilling these obligations, it becomes a hit-and-run—a serious offense that can leave victims feeling helpless and overwhelmed.

If you were the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Glen Burnie, you may wonder how to recover compensation when the at-fault driver fled the scene. Fortunately, an experienced Glen Burnie hit-and-run lawyer can guide you through your legal options to help you secure the financial relief you need for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Consider these scenarios: After enjoying lunch at Gino’s, you’re driving down Crain Highway S when a drunk driver strikes your car and flees the scene. Or, you’re bicycling to Level Up Games after school and are hit crossing Amberly Rd. by a distracted driver texting behind the wheel, who then drives off. Both situations can lead to serious injuries and unanswered questions about who will cover your expenses.

Hit-and-run accidents create unique challenges, but you are not alone. An experienced hit-and-run attorney in Glen Burnie, Maryland, with experience handling these cases can investigate the incident, help identify the at-fault driver, and explore all avenues for compensation—including uninsured motorist coverage. While the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be stressful, having proper legal support from Leppler Injury Law can make all the difference in pursuing justice and financial stability.

What Exactly Are Hit-and-Run Crashes?

A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in a collision flees the scene without offering assistance, exchanging information, or reporting the crash. These incidents exacerbate the suffering of victims, often leaving them without critical medical care or financial support when they need it most.

Beyond the immediate harm, hit-and-run crashes burden law enforcement and create challenges for families seeking justice and compensation. For many victims, the absence of accountability intensifies their emotional and economic struggles.

Fatal Accidents Involving Hit-and-Runs On the Rise in Maryland

Hit-and-run crashes are becoming more frequent and deadlier. In 2016, these incidents caused 2,049 fatalities—the highest number on record at that time, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). By 2020, fatalities from hit-and-run crashes had surged by 26%, a troubling trend that underscores the growing severity of these accidents. These crashes often impact vulnerable road users like pedestrians and bicyclists, who accounted for 1,398 of the fatal hit-and-run incidents in 2016. The lack of immediate medical attention in these cases can turn survivable injuries into deadly outcomes.

A Nationwide Crisis

The United States has one of the highest rates of hit-and-run crashes among developed nations. Over the last decade, an average of 682,000 hit-and-run incidents occurred annually, with a notable spike of 737,100 in 2015. Drivers fleeing the scene were responsible for 20.5% of pedestrian deaths in 2016, emphasizing the disproportionate danger these crashes pose to non-vehicle occupants.

This alarming rise in hit-and-run fatalities demands more vigorous enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and legal remedies to hold negligent drivers accountable and prevent future tragedies.

To learn more about hit-and-run accident statistics in Maryland, schedule a consultation with experienced Glen Burnie hit-and-run lawyer John Leppler today. John is never too busy to speak with you and answer any questions you may have.

What Are Some Examples of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Glen Burnie, Maryland?

Hit-and-run accidents in Glen Burnie take many forms, with drivers fleeing the scene for various reasons, such as fear of legal consequences, intoxication, or a lack of insurance. These accidents cause significant harm to victims and can involve pedestrians, bicyclists, parked cars, and even other moving vehicles. Below are typical examples of hit-and-run scenarios:

• Drunk or Impaired Drivers: Intoxicated drivers may flee the scene to avoid arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) or drug-related charges.
• Distracted Driving Collisions: Drivers distracted by phones, passengers, or other factors may strike another vehicle, bicyclist, or pedestrian and leave the scene.
• Stolen Vehicles or Criminal Activity: Drivers in stolen cars or those fleeing from police after a crime often cause hit-and-run crashes.
• Reckless Driving Incidents: Aggressive or careless drivers may hit another party and flee to avoid accountability.
• Pedestrian Accidents: A driver might hit a pedestrian crossing the street or walking on the shoulder and flee, sometimes claiming they didn’t realize they struck someone.
• Bicycle Accidents: Bicyclists are vulnerable to being struck by side mirrors or vehicles, particularly at intersections or on narrow roads.
• Motorcycle Accidents: Motorcyclists are often hit by drivers who fail to notice them or engage in reckless driving.
• Parked Vehicle Collisions: Drivers frequently hit unattended parked cars in parking lots or on sidestreets, leaving behind damage without taking responsibility.

These hit-and-run scenarios happen frequently and can lead to devastating injuries, financial losses, and emotional distress for victims. If you’ve experienced any of these accidents, contacting an experienced Glen Burnie hit-and-run attorney at Leppler Injury Law can help you understand your rights and seek justice.

Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene After an Accident in Glen Burnie, Maryland?

Hit-and-run accidents are a growing issue in Glen Burnie, leaving victims injured and uncertain about how to recover damages. But what compels a driver to leave the scene instead of staying to take responsibility? Drivers might flee for several reasons, often tied to fear, legal troubles, or reckless behavior.

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Intoxicated drivers may leave the scene to avoid arrest for DUI charges, fearing the consequences of being caught under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Lack of Insurance: Drivers without auto insurance often panic, knowing they would face legal and financial repercussions if caught.
• Outstanding Warrants or Legal Issues: Individuals with existing warrants or prior convictions may flee to avoid additional legal trouble.
• Driving a Stolen Vehicle: A driver in a stolen car may leave the scene to avoid being arrested for auto theft.
• Fear of Legal Consequences: Even drivers without criminal records may panic and flee due to anxiety about potential lawsuits or criminal charges.
• Distracted or Reckless Driving: Distracted drivers, such as those texting or speeding, may not realize they’ve caused an accident. Once they do, they might flee to avoid taking responsibility.
• Unlicensed or Suspended Drivers: Individuals driving without a valid or suspended license are often unwilling to face the penalties for being caught.
• Immigration Concerns: Undocumented drivers may flee out of fear of deportation or legal trouble related to their immigration status.

These motivations underscore the complexity of hit-and-run incidents. Regardless of the reasons for fleeing, drivers who leave the scene violate Maryland law and put victims in challenging situations. Skilled Glen Burnie car accident lawyer John Leppler can help you hold the responsible party accountable if you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run hit-and-run.

What Are Maryland’s Hit-and-Run Laws?

Maryland law requires all drivers involved in a vehicle accident to stop at the scene, provide assistance, and exchange information with the other parties involved. Failing to do so can result in severe criminal penalties, as outlined under Maryland Statute §20–102. This law applies to accidents involving property damage, injuries, or fatalities.

Under Maryland law, a driver must take specific actions after a crash:

• Immediately stop their vehicle as close to the scene as possible without obstructing traffic.
• Provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other party or law enforcement.
• Render reasonable assistance, such as calling emergency services if someone is injured.

Consequences of Leaving the Scene

The penalties for a hit-and-run depend on the severity of the accident:

Property Damage Only: A driver who flees can face misdemeanor charges, fines up to $500, and up to 60 days in jail.

Injuries: Leaving an accident involving injuries is a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000.

Fatalities: Hit-and-run accidents resulting in fatalities carry even harsher penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Additionally, fleeing the scene can result in points on the driver’s record, license suspension, or revocation.

These laws aim to ensure accountability and help victims receive the assistance they need after an accident. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run, a skilled and experienced Glen Burnie hit-and-run attorney from Leppler Injury Law can guide you through the legal process to seek justice.

Who Pays for Damages in a Glen Burnie Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run accident can leave victims with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. While Maryland imposes severe penalties for fleeing the scene of an accident, holding the at-fault driver accountable for your damages depends on identifying and pursuing compensation through available avenues.

When the At-Fault Driver is Identified

If the hit-and-run driver is caught, you can file a claim against their auto insurance policy to recover damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, property repair costs, and pain and suffering. A conviction for leaving the scene of an accident strengthens your case for compensation, but you will still need to work through the driver’s insurance company.

Options When the At-Fault Driver is Not Identified

If the driver is never caught or is uninsured, you may need to rely on your insurance coverage. Uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage in Maryland can cover damages caused by a hit-and-run driver. Personal injury protection (PIP) may also help with medical expenses, regardless of fault.

For bicyclists or pedestrians involved in a hit-and-run, health insurance may provide coverage for medical bills. Additionally, if they are eventually identified, victims may file a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party.

The Importance of Enhanced UIM Coverage

Maryland offers an Enhanced Underinsured Motorist Coverage option that can provide extra protection in hit-and-run scenarios. This coverage ensures higher payouts when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient. Speak with your insurance agent to review your policy and consider increasing your UM/UIM limits for a minimal cost.

Protecting yourself with the right insurance coverage is essential in hit-and-run accidents, where compensation may be limited.

Recovering Damages with the Maryland Auto Insurance Fund

For victims of hit-and-run accidents in Maryland, the Maryland Auto Insurance Fund (MAIF) offers vital financial relief when traditional avenues for compensation are unavailable. MAIF provides coverage of up to $30,000 for damages, such as medical expenses, property repair costs, and lost wages. This resource can be crucial for those left without recourse after an unidentified driver flees the scene.

Can Traffic Camera Footage Help?

Although Glen Burnie’s traffic cameras are not as advanced as those in larger cities, they can still prove that a hit-and-run occurred. Victims or their legal representatives can request access to red-light or speed camera footage from nearby intersections or roads. If the footage is clear and usable, it may serve as evidence to support a claim through MAIF by demonstrating the at-fault driver’s actions and subsequent flight.

Unfortunately, Maryland’s cameras do not record or store footage long-term and unclear images can pose challenges. Insurance companies may use blurry photos to create doubt about the incident’s cause, arguing contributory negligence. This is particularly dangerous in Maryland, a state of pure contributory negligence, where even minimal fault on the victim’s part can bar compensation.

Filing a Claim with MAIF

When the driver cannot be identified, victims can turn to MAIF for assistance. To file a claim, you must gather as much evidence as possible, including police reports, photos of the crash scene, and witness statements. These materials help demonstrate that you were not at fault and that the hit-and-run driver caused injuries or damages.

While MAIF provides essential support, navigating the claims process can be complex. Consulting with an experienced Glen Burnie hit-and-run lawyer ensures your claim is thorough, helping you secure the financial relief you need during a challenging time.

What Are Some Ways To Potentially Locate the Driver Who Fled the Scene?

After a hit-and-run accident in Glen Burnie, tracking down the fleeing driver is often challenging but not impossible. Various methods can help identify the individual responsible, increasing the chances of holding them accountable. Here are some ways to potentially locate a hit-and-run driver:

File a Police Report Immediately

The first and most crucial step is contacting the police and filing a report. When a driver flees the scene, the incident becomes a criminal matter. Police officers will investigate the case and may use evidence like witness statements, surveillance footage, or vehicle debris left behind. Sharing any details you recall, such as the vehicle’s make, model, or color, can aid their investigation.

Rely on Witness Statements

Witnesses who saw the accident may provide crucial information. Some might have noted details like a partial license plate number, distinguishing marks on the vehicle, or even the driver’s description. Witness accounts can help the police track down the responsible party.

Utilize Surveillance Cameras

Businesses, homes, or public areas near the accident scene may have surveillance cameras that capture the incident. Although Glen Burnie’s public cameras may not be highly sophisticated, private security systems could provide valuable footage. Requesting this footage promptly is critical, as many systems overwrite data after a short period. Dashcam footage from your own vehicle could also be a valuable piece of evidence to consider.

Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

If you managed to record part or all of the vehicle’s license plate numbers, the DMV can use that information to identify the registered owner. Law enforcement will typically handle this process to ensure proper protocol.

Leverage Social Media

Posting about the accident on social media platforms can generate leads. Community members might recognize the vehicle or recall seeing it nearby. Social media campaigns have helped solve hit-and-run cases by spreading awareness quickly.

Door-to-Door Inquiries

Police or individuals can canvas nearby businesses and homes, asking if anyone witnessed the crash or has relevant security footage. Residents might recognize the car or provide additional clues.

Work with an Experienced Attorney

A knowledgeable car accident attorney can assist in gathering evidence, locating potential witnesses, and pursuing every avenue to identify the fleeing driver. Attorneys also help victims navigate insurance claims and legal proceedings to secure compensation.

While locating a hit-and-run driver can be challenging, persistence and thorough investigation can lead to justice.

How Do I File a Hit-and-Run Accident Claim in Glen Burnie, Maryland?

If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident in Glen Burnie, Maryland, it’s essential to know how to file a claim with your insurance company to recover damages. Maryland law protects situations where the at-fault driver cannot be identified or has fled the scene. Here’s how to file your hit-and-run accident claim:

Step 1: Notify Your Insurance Company

Immediately after the accident, contact your insurance company to report the incident. Ensure you provide all the details you have, including a description of the crash, the vehicle involved (if you recall it), and any other information that could help your claim.

You’ll be filing a claim under your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, designed for situations where the at-fault driver is either uninsured or cannot be identified.

Step 2: Establish the Responsible Party

Although the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified, you must still demonstrate that the driver’s negligence caused the accident. Essentially, you need to prove that if the at-fault driver had been found, you would have had a legitimate claim against them. This can be challenging, but securing compensation through your insurance is necessary.

Step 3: Work with Your Insurance Company

Once your claim is filed, your insurance company steps in like the at-fault driver’s insurer. This may sound counterintuitive since you’re working with your provider, but it’s a mechanism that allows you to receive compensation.

Be prepared for your insurance company to present defenses and arguments similar to those the responsible driver would have made had they been located.

Step 4: Negotiating Compensation

The process often becomes contentious when determining the value of your injuries. While the insurance company will typically agree on the aspects of the case (such as liability), the primary dispute usually centers around how much compensation you are entitled to. At this point, you may need legal assistance to negotiate a fair settlement and protect your rights.

Filing a hit-and-run claim may feel like a complex process, but knowing your rights under Maryland’s uninsured motorist laws can help guide you through the steps to recover the compensation you deserve.

Skilled Glen Burnie Car Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Glen Burnie, having an experienced legal representative on your side can make all the difference. John Leppler specializes in helping victims of these types of accidents navigate the complexities of insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Unlike the mega-firms, John is dedicated to providing personalized attention to each client. He will personally discuss your case, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your case is handled with the care it deserves.

Locations near Glen Burnie, Maryland, which Leppler Injury Law serves include Towson, Baltimore, Lutherville-Timonium, Parkville, Owings Mills, Pikesville, and more.