Maryland state troopers are looking into a recent Maryland roadside crash in which a AAA worker was killed while changing a tire. According to one news source, the AAA worker had just finished changing a flat tire on I-70 in Marriottsville when a pickup truck driver hit him and his work van. Investigators are still trying to determine what caused the crash, including possible factors such as distracted driving and speed. The crash occurred at around 11:30 in the morning. The worker was wearing a safety vest and the emergency lights on the work van were flashing.
A AAA Public and Government Affairs Manager said that the crash highlighted the dangers that first responders, police, tow truck drivers, and EMS face every day on the side of the road while assisting others. A AAA representative reported that this was the sixth worker killed on the job within the last six months. A recent AAA survey found that 75 percent of first responders in Maryland report that drivers do not move over or slow down.
Maryland’s Move Over, Slow Down Law and Its Consequences
When Maryland drivers approach emergency, tow truck, law enforcement, transportation, and utility vehicles that are stopped, standing, or parked on the highway with their lights flashing, drivers must move over. If drivers cannot safely move over, then they must slow to a reasonable and safe speed considering the conditions. The law originally applied only to first responders and law enforcement but later expanded to include tow truck drivers. Violators of the law may be fined and may be charged with criminal charges in some cases. They also may be subject to civil lawsuits if anyone is injured as a result.
Who Do You Sue After a Roadside Accident?
Victims of Maryland roadside car accidents may be able to receive financial compensation by filing a claim against negligent drivers or others responsible for the crash. Victims may be able to file a claim if the defendant owed the victim a duty, acted wrongfully by acting or failing to act in some way, caused the plaintiff’s injuries, and the plaintiff suffered damages. Even if a Maryland driver encounters a dangerous situation, the drive is still required to exercise a reasonable degree of care under the circumstances. Victims of Maryland roadside accidents may be able to recover compensation for pain and suffering, wage losses, past and future medical bills, and more.
Contact a Maryland Accident Lawyer
If an individual is injured in a Maryland motor vehicle accident, the victim or their families members may be able to recover financial compensation by filing a personal injury claim. The injury lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC are knowledgable in all types of Maryland motor vehicle accidents. Our attorneys have decades of combined experience representing accident victims in personal injury cases throughout Maryland and will guide you through the legal process, including the initial investigation, settlement negotiations, and litigation. To set up a free initial consultation with a Maryland car accident lawyer, call them at 800-654-1949 or fill out their online form.