When Should I Talk to an Attorney After a Car Crash?

 Posted on October 11, 2025 in Personal Injury

After a car crash, life can feel like it has turned upside down. Between doctor visits, car repairs, and dealing with insurance companies, knowing what to do next can be confusing. Many people wonder if and when they should talk to a lawyer, especially if the crash seems minor at first. 

At Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett, our Annapolis car accident attorneys are here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today if you have been in an accident.

What Does Maryland Law Say About Car Accidents?

Maryland follows a fault-based system for car accidents. This means the driver who causes the accident is legally responsible for paying damages. However, Maryland is also one of only a few states that still follows the contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, if you are even one percent at fault for the crash, you may be barred from recovering any compensation.

Because of this strict rule, it is especially important to talk to an attorney as soon as possible. Insurance companies often use contributory negligence to deny valid claims, so having legal representation early can make all the difference.

When Is the Right Time to Contact a Lawyer After a Car Crash?

You should contact an attorney as soon as you receive medical attention after the crash, ideally within a day or two. The sooner your lawyer begins working on your case, the easier it is to find crucial evidence like witness statements, surveillance footage, or accident reports.

Even if you think the crash was minor, there are many situations where contacting a lawyer immediately is critical, such as:

• You suffered injuries that required medical care

• The other driver was uninsured or fled the scene

• Your car was severely damaged

• The insurance company is pressuring you to settle quickly

• Fault for the crash is being disputed

An attorney can handle communication with the insurance company, calculate the full extent of your damages, and make sure you do not accept a low settlement.

How Long Do I Have to File a Car Crash Claim in Maryland?

Every state has a legal deadline for filing a lawsuit, called the statute of limitations. In Maryland, you generally have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit (Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings Code § 5-101).

If you miss this deadline, your case will almost certainly be dismissed, no matter how strong your evidence is. That is why it is crucial to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after your crash. The earlier you act, the better your chances of preserving important evidence and building a strong case.

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?

A skilled attorney will handle the details so you can focus on healing. This includes investigating the crash and identifying all responsible parties as well as collecting police reports, witness statements, and medical records. Once your attorney has the information they need, they will negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and file a lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Contact a Bowie, MD Car Accident Attorney Today

If you were injured in a car crash, do not wait to get legal advice, even for seemingly minor injuries. The sooner you talk to a lawyer, the stronger your case will be.

Our team of Annapolis, MD personal injury lawyers at Law Office of Kari H. Fawcett is ready to fight for you. We bring over five decades of experience to every case and never back down from a challenge. Call our offices at 301-262-5500 to schedule a consultation with our attorneys today.