Highways are integral to many drivers’ day-to-day lives as they allow drivers to travel long distances much more quickly and efficiently than surface streets. However, these roads also present unique and ever-present dangers. Highway accidents tend to be more serious because they often involve multiple vehicles traveling at high speeds. If you’ve been injured in a highway accident in Prince George’s County, it’s important to understand what caused the accident, what legal options you have, and how to move forward with a claim. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our team of experienced Prince George’s car accident lawyers have decades of experience successfully handling all types of accident cases on behalf of our clients, including highway accidents on I-95, I-495, Baltimore Washington Parkway, and Route 50.
Highway Accident StatisticsHighway accidents are common in Maryland, particularly in areas like Prince George’s County, where major highways and interstates see a significant volume of traffic. This is because Prince George’s County is home to several busy highways, including Interstate 495 (the Capital Beltway) and Route 50, both of which are known for frequent traffic congestion and accidents. Accidents on these highways often involve multiple vehicles, and the high speeds combined with dense traffic can make these crashes especially dangerous.
According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, there are thousands of accidents on Maryland highways each year, with an average of more than 500 fatalities occurring annually. In recent years, highway crashes have accounted for a significant percentage of fatal accidents statewide.
Causes of Highway AccidentsHighway accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, most of which are related to driver error, road conditions, or vehicle malfunctions. Some of the most common causes of highway accidents in Prince George’s County include:
Speeding: High speeds on highways increase the likelihood of accidents, as drivers have less time to react to sudden changes in traffic. Speeding also increases the severity of accidents, making it more difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.
Distracted driving: Drivers who use their phones, eat, or engage in other distractions are more likely to cause accidents, especially in high-speed environments. A moment of inattention can result in catastrophic collisions.
Impaired driving: Alcohol and drug use impair a driver’s ability to make quick decisions and maintain control of their vehicle. In fact, DUI accidents remain a leading cause of fatal highway accidents.
Aggressive driving: Tailgating, weaving through traffic, and road rage behaviors contribute to many highway accidents. Aggressive drivers may not leave enough space between their vehicle and others, increasing the risk of a crash.
Weather conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and ice can make highways treacherous, reducing visibility and increasing the chances of vehicles losing control. Even experienced drivers may struggle to navigate highways in poor weather.
Tire blowouts and mechanical failures: A sudden tire blowout or brake failure at high speeds can lead to a driver losing control, causing dangerous accidents involving multiple vehicles.
Merging errors: Misjudging the speed or position of other vehicles while merging onto or off highways can lead to dangerous side-impact or rear-end collisions.
Highways in Prince George’s CountyPrince George’s County is home to several major highways that see a significant amount of traffic every day, including:
Interstate 495 (Capital Beltway): This highway encircles Washington, D.C., and is one of the busiest roads in the region. Traffic congestion, frequent merging, and high-speed travel contribute to a high number of accidents on this route.
Route 50: Running through Prince George’s County, Route 50 connects Washington, D.C., with the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Accidents on this highway are common, particularly during peak travel times when traffic is heaviest.
Interstate 95: I-95 is a major north-south highway that passes through Prince George’s County, providing a critical link between cities along the East Coast. With high speeds and heavy commercial traffic, this highway is often the site of serious accidents.
Baltimore-Washington Parkway: This scenic highway also experiences its share of traffic accidents, especially as commuters travel between Baltimore and Washington, D.C.
Common Legal Issues in Highway Accident CasesHighway accident cases often involve complex legal issues, especially when multiple vehicles are involved or when accidents occur at high speeds. For example, some of the most common issues confronting accident victims include the following:
Determining liability: Establishing fault in a highway accident can be challenging, especially when more than one vehicle is involved. It may require a thorough investigation of the crash scene, witness testimony, and analysis of traffic camera footage to determine who is responsible.
Dealing with insurance companies: Highway accident claims often involve medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages. Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation can be difficult, particularly when multiple parties are involved. Insurers may attempt to downplay the severity of your injuries or shift blame onto other drivers.
Maryland’s contributory negligence rule: Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence doctrine, which can bar you from recovering compensation if you are found to be even partially at fault for the accident. This makes it essential to have an experienced attorney who can help build a strong case on your behalf.
Handling commercial vehicle accidents: Accidents involving commercial trucks or other large vehicles often result in more severe injuries and can involve additional legal issues, such as federal trucking regulations and corporate liability.
Speak With an Experienced Prince George’s County Highway Accident Lawyer TodayIf you’ve been injured in a highway accident, Foran & Foran, P.A. is ready to help. With over 60 years of hands-on experience investigating, negotiating, and litigating car accident cases, we know what it takes to secure the outcome you and your family are looking for. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our experienced team of Prince George’s County car accident lawyers help connect you with the compensation you deserve for what you’ve been through. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation today, call us at 301-441-2022, or you can connect with us through our secure online contact form. We also represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville and the surrounding areas.