Car Accidents

White v. James: How a Maryland Court Handled a Recent “Hit-and-Run Accident”

November 30, 2024 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

A recent Maryland appellate court case, White v. James, highlights important legal issues that can arise in car accident cases, particularly concerning the admissibility of evidence. The appellate court was tasked with reviewing three central claims raised by Mr. White, the appellant, challenging the lower court’s handling of evidence and jury instructions. The case sheds light on how courts handle post-accident conduct, potential prejudices, and procedural preservation of objections, which are critical issues in personal injury litigation.

The Facts

The incident occurred in the early morning hours of August 25, 2019, on the Baltimore Washington Parkway. Mr. White’s vehicle collided with Ms. James’s car, causing her to lose control and veer into a ditch. After the collision, Mr. White briefly exited his vehicle before leaving the scene without offering assistance or identifying himself. Ms. James waited approximately 30 minutes before emergency responders arrived.

Fatal Multi-Vehicle Accident in Washington County Emphasizes the Importance of Safe Driving on Maryland Roads

October 31, 2024 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

A recent five-vehicle accident on Interstate 70 in Washington County claimed the life of one person and left several others injured. The accident occurred when a tractor-trailer failed to slow down in heavy traffic, causing a deadly chain reaction. While this incident highlights the devastating impact that negligence behind the wheel can have, it also brings attention to Maryland’s laws designed to prevent such tragedies and protect victims.

When accidents like these occur, Maryland’s legal system allows victims and their families to seek justice and compensation for the harm caused. In cases where negligence or recklessness plays a role, legal claims can help hold the responsible parties accountable and ensure that victims receive the support they need during a difficult time.

Maryland’s Legal Framework for Vehicular Manslaughter and Negligent Driving

Tragic Multi-Vehicle Accident in Prince George’s County Claims Three Lives

July 30, 2024 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

A tragic accident occurred earlier this month in Prince George’s County, leading to the death of three individuals. The Maryland State Police are investigating this devastating multi-vehicle crash, which involved a high-speed lane change that resulted in a collision between three cars. Authorities suspect that alcohol may have been a contributing factor. This heartbreaking event underscores the complexities and dangers of multi-vehicle accidents under Maryland law.

Understanding Multi-Vehicle Accidents in Maryland

Multi-vehicle accidents, often termed “pile-ups,” involve more than two vehicles and can result in severe injuries and fatalities. These accidents can happen in various ways, such as chain reactions from a single collision or simultaneous impacts involving multiple cars. Maryland law considers several factors in determining fault and liability in such cases, including speed, road conditions, and driver impairment.

Fatal Car Accident Under Investigation After Attempted Traffic Stop

May 31, 2024 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

As of 2017, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has found that both the rate and fatality levels of hit-and-run collisions are on the rise. There were an estimated 737,100 hit-and-run crashes in 2015. This translates to a hit-and-run crash happening somewhere in the U.S. every 43 seconds. The 2,049 fatalities that resulted from hit-and-run crashes in 2016 were the highest number recorded up to that point. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety defines hit-and-run accidents as collisions in which at least one person involved in the crash departs the scene of the crash before offering any (or sufficient) information or aid to the other involved person(s) or fails to properly report the crash. Hit-and-run accidents are a major issue for many reasons, but in particular, they can increase the severity of outcomes given delays or the complete absence of medical attention for the victims.

What Makes Hit and Run Accidents More Common?

Hit-and-run accidents are often characterized by several distinct elements. Common characteristics include the accident having very few witnesses and or poor lighting, as the driver is more likely to believe there will not be repercussions for their behavior. If there are many witnesses or the scene is highly visible, people are less likely to flee the scene of a crash. Similarly, drivers are much more likely to flee the scene of an accident between the hours of midnight and 4:00 a.m., than between 8:00 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. This is due to a host of reasons, but one explanation is that nighttime drivers generally engage in more risky behavior.

A recent news report described a fatal accident. According to the reporting by DC News Now, one person is dead and another was taken to the hospital after a serious crash. The Maryland Office of the Attorney General said it is conducting an independent investigation after a fatal crash followed an attempted traffic stop in Rockville. Two Montgomery County Sheriff Deputies were in the area of Rockville Pike near Flanders Avenue just before 2:30 a.m. when they saw a Dodge sedan speeding. Shortly after they turned on their emergency equipment, they came across a two-car crash between the sedan and another car. Investigators believe the Dodge sedan collided with a Honda sedan, which was turning onto Rockville Pike. The driver of the Dodge attempted to flee on foot and was found shortly by the police. The driver of the Honda – a woman – was pronounced dead at the scene.

Baltimore Key Bridge Collapses After Being Hit by Cargo Ship

April 2, 2024 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

Traffic signs and detour signals are vital parts of maintaining safe traffic practices. While it would be nice to be aware of every single thing on the road ahead, sometimes obstacles can be hidden from plain view or in blind spots on the road. Without warning signs, drivers may only become aware of the obstacle when it is too late. This is why warning signs for traffic are incredibly important. They can be temporary signs that warn traffic about construction zones, detours, obstacles, or changes in the conditions ahead. Recently, officials were able to suddenly halt traffic across the Baltimore Key Bridge, minutes before the bridge collapsed, saving many lives. A CNN news article described the circumstances surrounding the bridge collapse.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday, March 26, after a massive container ship lost power and crashed into the iconic Baltimore bridge, sending people and vehicles into the frigid Patapsco River. Six people, believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead and the Coast Guard has ended its active search and rescue mission. According to Maryland Governor Wes Moore, over 30,000 people commuted daily on the bridge. Governor Moore also stated that the quick work of authorities in closing the bridge had saved lives. Radio traffic captured how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge seconds before the impact. Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. said there is a “distinct possibility” more vehicles were on the bridge, but authorities have not found any evidence to support that.

What Caused the Francis Scott Key Bridge to Collapse?

According to investigations, the ship pilot quickly gave a string of orders, calling for a hard rudder to port — as far left as possible — and for the anchor to be dropped. Additionally, the pilot was the one who contacted the pilot dispatch office to shut down traffic to the bridge. Even with the mitigation measures in place, eight people were on the bridge when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and was later discharged, fire officials and the medical center said. Dive teams from various state and local agencies were brought in to assist in search-and-rescue operations, according to Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. The mission started with 50 personnel and continued to grow before the Coast Guard announced that it was suspending its active search-and-rescue operation and transitioning to a “different phase.”

Bridge Reopens after Massive 43 Car Pileup in Maryland

March 30, 2024 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

The danger of not wearing your seatbelt is compounded when a truck or other large vehicle is involved in the crash. That goes for people in the large vehicle as well as others on the road. Large commercial vehicles like trucks are on the road to transport heavy items over long distances. That means that large automobiles can become difficult to maneuver in emergency situations, preventing drivers from turning or stopping suddenly due to the weight of their vehicle and cargo. Even without heavy cargo or large trailers, big vehicles are heavy, making accidents involving them inherently dangerous.

What Are the Common Causes of Truck Accidents?

Additionally, long-distance drivers are under extreme pressure to spend significant hours on the road, as they may have to meet delivery deadlines. This can lead to exhaustion and impaired judgment on the roads. Tired drivers are more likely to make mistakes when driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents. It is vital to wear your seatbelt while on the road and stay aware of large vehicles that could be merging onto your road. A recent news article discussed a massive multi-vehicle accident on a Maryland bridge.

According to the local news article, the accident happened around 8:00 am on January 27, when a chain-reaction crash involving 23 vehicles was followed by “a series of secondary crashes” involving another 20 cars. The crash happened just before early in the morning on the westbound span of the Bay Bridge in Maryland according to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA). Thirteen people were taken to the hospital, including two with serious injuries. None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening, according to the MDTA. The eastbound span, which is two lanes wide, carried all traffic in both directions while authorities investigated for hours and worked to clear the wreckage. Eastbound and westbound traffic alternated on the eastbound span, because “two-way operations are prohibited due to fog/limited visibility,” the MDTA said. The cause of the crash is not yet clear. Nearly five hours after the crash, cars involved in the pileup clustered together in the middle of the bridge were still visible as emergency responders continued to clear the lanes of debris.

MVA Announces New Year’s Resolutions to Reduce Maryland Car Accidents

February 20, 2024 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

In 2023, Maryland roadway fatalities were at the highest the state has seen since 2007. In response, the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicles Administration (MVA) recently announced several New Year’s resolutions aimed at reducing the number of accidents in the state. In a recent news article, an MVA administrator discussed the agency’s plan to prioritize Maryland drivers’ safety in the new year.

How is the MTA Trying to Reduce Car Accidents?

First, the MVA has asked Maryland drivers to create a MyMVA account, which allows drivers to access their vehicle information in real time. For example, MyMVA displays drivers’ REAL ID status, emission deadline, and copies of correspondences between drivers and the MVA. The account also allows drivers to complete transactions online, which eliminates the need to go to a branch office in-person. Similarly, the MVA has advised enrolling in Maryland Mobile ID. This smartphone application helps drivers keep their personal information secure, including their driver’s license or other state-issued identification card. The MVA hopes to expand this service in the new year.

The MVA has also asked drivers to take several steps to ensure their vehicles are road-ready. First, the MVA has instructed drivers to check for vehicle recalls, which an authorized dealership will repair for free. Staying up-to-date on vehicle recalls allows drivers to ensure their vehicles are working properly, which may reduce the risk of an accident caused by a vehicle malfunction. Drivers should also understand roadside safety and make sure their vehicles are in good working condition. Finally, drivers must find the right seats for children. Not all car seats are appropriate for all children. Factors like the child’s age, height, and weight may impact the car seat that will best protect your child in the event of an accident.

Deadly New Year’s Day Hit-And-Run Leaves One Dead at the Scene

January 31, 2024 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

Hit-and-run accidents are often characterized by several distinct elements. Common characteristics include the accident having very few witnesses and or poor lighting, as the driver is more likely to believe there will not be repercussions for their behavior. If there are many witnesses or the scene is highly visible, people are less likely to flee the scene of a crash. Similarly, drivers are much more likely to flee the scene of an accident between the hours of midnight and 4:00 a.m., than between 8:00 a.m. and 11:59 a.m. This is due to a host of reasons, but one explanation is that nighttime drivers generally engage in more risky behavior.

What Is the Definition of a Hit and Run Accident?

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety defines hit-and-run accidents as collisions in which at least one person involved in the crash departs the scene of the crash before offering any (or sufficient) information or aid to the other involved person(s) or fails to properly report the crash. Hit-and-run accidents are a major issue for many reasons, but in particular, they can increase the severity of outcomes given delays or the complete absence of medical attention for the victims. As of 2017, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has found that both the rate and fatality levels of hit-and-run collisions are on the rise. There were an estimated 737,100 hit-and-run crashes in 2015. This translates to a hit-and-run crash happening somewhere in the U.S. every 43 seconds. The 2,049 fatalities that resulted from hit-and-run crashes in 2016 were the highest number recorded up to that point.

A recent news report described a serious Maryland hit-and-run accident. According to the reporting by Fox Five Washington D.C., the accident occurred around 9:00 pm on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2024, near the intersection of Landover Road and Neighbor Lane. By the time police officers responded to the scene of the crash, the man was unresponsive. Prince George’s County police are seeking the driver who left the scene of the hit-and-run. Authorities state that the man found at the scene was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Four People Identified in Fatal Maryland Multi-Car Crash

December 31, 2023 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

The danger of not wearing your seatbelt is compounded when a truck or other large vehicle is involved in the crash. That goes for people in the large vehicle as well as others on the road. Bigger vehicles like trucks and SUVs are larger than other vehicles and often transport more passengers or cargo. That means that large automobiles can become difficult to maneuver in emergency situations, preventing drivers from turning or stopping suddenly due to the weight of their vehicle and cargo. Even without heavy cargo or large trailers, big vehicles are heavy, making accidents involving them inherently dangerous. Additionally, long-distance drivers are under extreme pressure to spend significant hours on the road, as they may have to meet delivery deadlines. This can lead to exhaustion and impaired judgment on the roads. Tired drivers are more likely to make mistakes when driving, increasing the likelihood of accidents. It is vital to wear your seatbelt while on the road and stay aware of large vehicles that could be merging onto your road. A recent news article discussed a serious multi-vehicle accident.

According to the local news article, the accident happened at approximately 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 4, along westbound Liberty Road in the area of Westminster, Maryland. Law enforcement investigators said that the driver of a Chevy Equinox was attempting to make a left turn onto Skidmore Road when a Saturn rear-ended the vehicle. The collision forced the Chevy into the eastbound lanes of Liberty Road and the Chevy was struck by a Ford F-350. A number of individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, and two victims of the crash were flown to a nearby hospital, where one later passed away. Following the crash, all the westbound Liberty Road lanes remained closed while the Maryland State Police Crash Team continued with its investigation.

How Much Car insurance Do You Need in Maryland?

Maryland maintains minimum insurance requirements for drivers in the state. Minimum insurance requirements are designed to ensure sufficient compensation is available to victims of car accidents should it be required. As a result, Maryland drivers are required to purchase at least $30,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per person, $60,000 in bodily injury liability coverage per accident, and $15,000 in property damage liability coverage.

Maryland State Trooper Involved in Car Crash During Emergency Response

October 30, 2023 | Lebowitz & Mzhen

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), motor vehicle-related incidents are a leading cause of line-of-duty deaths for law enforcement officers in the United States. However, according to the CDC, such accidents are highly preventable. From 2011-2020, 454 officers died due to motor vehicle-related incidents, both struck by and crashes, which accounted for 33% of all line-of-duty deaths in those year excluding COVID-19 deaths. It is important to promote motor vehicle safety among officers so they can stay safe while working to make communities safer. According to the CDC, behavior-related hazards for officers include not wearing a seat belt, speeding through intersections, being distracted by electronics while driving, and experiencing tunnel vision from increased stress. It is vital for officers to make a conscious effort to reduce such behaviors, as it not only threatens their own lives but the lives of those around them as well. A recent news article discusses a car crash involving a Maryland State Trooper driving through an intersection.

According to the news article, the accident occurred when the trooper was traveling southbound on St. Charles Parkway on the evening of Thursday, September 14 shortly after 5:00 PM. The trooper was traveling with emergency equipment activated and came to a full stop at the intersection of Billingsley Road on St. Charles Parkway when a Toyota Corolla traveling eastbound on St. Charles Parkway struck the trooper’s unmarked Ford Explorer. Both the state trooper and the driver of the Toyota Corolla were transported to the University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center in La Plata for treatment of their injuries. According to investigators, impaired driving was not believed to be a factor in the crash. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.

Does Negligence on My Part Affect My Case?

Contributory Negligence is the legal concept preventing victims in an accident from receiving recovery for their personal injuries if their negligence contributed to the accident at all. Simply put, even if the negligence of the operator of another vehicle is largely responsible for the motor vehicle accident if the victim was even slightly negligent, it is possible they will not be able to recover any compensation. In Maryland, contributory negligence is interpreted broadly, allowing minor negligence by the victim in personal injury cases to defeat even very strong plaintiff claims.