Freeway Accidents
High-speed collisions on Prince George's County highways and freeways, such as I-495 (Capital Beltway) and Route 50, often lead to catastrophic injuries. These major roadways are heavily trafficked, with vehicles moving at high speeds, making sudden lane changes, congestion, and reckless driving common causes of serious accidents. The unique dangers posed by high-speed travel in these areas can result in devastating injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and fatalities. Victims of freeway crashes in Prince George's County often face overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial burdens in the aftermath.
At Foran & Foran, P.A., we understand the life-changing impact of freeway accidents and are committed to helping victims get justice. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the crash, identify negligent parties—whether it's a distracted driver, a speeding vehicle, or a large truck operator—and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Whether you're dealing with a reckless driving crash or a fatal truck accident, our team will fight to protect your rights and ensure you receive the support needed for recovery. Contact us to explore how we can help you through this difficult time.
Common Causes of Freeway AccidentsMany factors contribute to accidents on the freeways in Prince George's County. Some of the most common causes include:
- Reckless driving. Aggressive drivers who speed, weave through traffic, or tailgate are more likely to cause serious collisions. According to a 5-year average, aggressive driving in Maryland caused 42 fatal crashes, 1,152 injury crashes, and 3,432 total crashes.
- Distracted driving. Many drivers on the freeway are distracted by their phones, GPS systems, or other devices, which can lead to a delayed reaction time that can result in catastrophic accidents.
- Impaired driving. Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol pose a significant risk on high-speed roadways. Over the past five years, alcohol or drug involvement in Maryland contributed to 142 fatal crashes and 6,172 total crashes.
- Lane departure. Drivers veering out of their lane can cause pile-ups or side-impact crashes, especially at freeway speeds.
- Mechanical defects. Issues like tire blowouts or brake failures are hazardous on freeways where drivers have little time to react to sudden mechanical issues.
Each of these causes requires a thorough investigation to determine liability and build a strong case for compensation.
Types of Injuries in Freeway AccidentsDue to the high speeds involved, freeway accidents in Prince George's County frequently result in serious injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). High-speed collisions often lead to severe head injuries, especially if the victim's vehicle rolls over or is struck by multiple cars.
- Spinal cord injuries These injuries can leave victims paralyzed, either temporarily or permanently, and require lifelong medical care.
- Broken bones. From fractures to more severe breaks, these injuries are common in freeway accidents and often lead to surgeries and extended recovery times.
- Internal injuries. The force of a freeway accident can cause organ damage, internal bleeding, or other life-threatening injuries that require immediate medical attention.
- Fatalities. Sadly, many freeway accidents result in death. Maryland's freeway fatalities remain high, with 433 deaths reported so far in 2024.
Victims of freeway accidents need an attorney who understands the unique challenges these cases present.
Determining Liability in Freeway AccidentsLiability in freeway accidents can be complicated, especially when multiple vehicles are involved. In some cases, the fault may lie with:
- The driver—who caused the accident due to reckless or distracted driving;
- Other parties—such as a trucking company or a vehicle manufacturer, in cases of mechanical failure or poor vehicle maintenance and
- Local or state authorities—if poor road design or lack of maintenance contributed to the accident.
Establishing liability requires gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and expert testimony on the cause of the crash. Working with an experienced Prince George's County freeway accident lawyer ensures that all liable parties are identified and held accountable.
Contact a Skilled Prince George's Car Accident Lawyer for Help After a Freeway AccidentIf you've been involved in a freeway accident, the experienced Prince George's car accident lawyers at Foran & Foran, P.A. are ready to help. We will thoroughly investigate your case, identify liable parties, and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, and more. Don't deal with the aftermath of a freeway accident alone—call us today at 301-441-2022 for a free consultation with a skilled lawyer. We proudly represent clients in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, Waldorf, La Plata, Silver Spring, Rockville, and the surrounding areas.