- Fatal Accidents & Wrongful Death Attorneys
If you've lost a loved one in a fatal auto accident, you have options.
Our attorneys understand that no amount of money can make up for the death of a loved one. However, we can make sure we hold negligent parties accountable for their actions.
At Innovate Injury & Accident Lawyers, our wrongful death attorneys we will take the time and care to ensure your family receives justice and maximum compensation allowed under Maryland law.
Losing a loved one in an auto accident can be a devastating and traumatic reality for many families.
At Innovate Injury & Accident Lawyers, we know no amount of money can make up for your loss. But our wrongful death attorneys can help your family get justice and financial security while you heal.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Maryland
When a car accident is caused by someone else’s negligence, Maryland law allows certain family members to file a wrongful death claim. These claims serve two purposes: to support the deceased’s dependents and to hold the negligent party accountable.
Maryland law breaks wrongful death claims into two separate but related claims: the wrongful death claim and the survival action. We can help you understand the difference between these claims and file both when applicable to your situation.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Maryland?
Maryland law has a specific order of priority for wrongful death claims. Primary beneficiaries are:
The spouse, parents and children of the deceased have first priority to file a claim. If no primary beneficiaries exist, secondary beneficiaries such as siblings, cousins or other relatives who were substantially dependent on the deceased can file a claim.
Knowing these relationships and rights is important because Maryland has strict limits on who can get compensation. We will help identify all eligible family members and file the claims.
Time Limits for Fatal Accident Claims
Maryland has a three-year statute of limitations on wrongful death claims, which generally starts from the date of death. However, there may be exceptions. We recommend families seek legal advice as soon as possible as building a strong case takes time and documentation.
Compensation Available in Fatal Auto Accident Cases
Maryland law recognizes both economic and non-economic damages in wrongful death cases. Our attorneys work to secure full compensation for:
Economic Damages
We carefully calculate all financial losses, including:
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost future income and benefits
- Loss of household services
- Estate administration expenses
Non-Economic Damages
These more personal losses include:
- Mental anguish and emotional pain
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of parental guidance
- Loss of spousal support
- Loss of society and comfort
How We Handle Fatal Accident Cases
At Innovate Injury & Accident Lawyers, we handle fatal accident cases with compassion and attention to detail. Our approach includes:
The Investigation
We will establish liability by:
Gathering and preserving all available evidence from the scene of the accident including video footage, witness statements and physical evidence. We often work with accident reconstruction experts to figure out how the accident happened and who’s at fault.
Expert Consultation
Medical experts to determine cause of death
Economic experts to calculate future losses
Life care planning specialists
Accident reconstruction specialists
Industry specific experts as needed
Common Causes of Fatal Auto Accidents in Baltimore
Knowing the cause of a fatal accident is key to liability. In Baltimore, common causes are:
Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drug related crashes continue to claim lives on Baltimore’s roads, especially on I-83 and I-695. We will hold impaired drivers fully accountable for their reckless behavior.
Distracted Driving
The rise of mobile devices has led to more distraction related fatalities. We will get cell phone records and other evidence to prove driver distraction.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Driving Downtown and major corridors in Baltimore see many fatalities from speeding and aggressive driving. We will get to work on your case.
The Process for Fatal Accident Claims
When you work with our firm, we guide you through every step of the legal process:
Initial Investigation
We begin by thoroughly investigating the accident circumstances, gathering evidence, and identifying all potentially liable parties. This may include other drivers, vehicle manufacturers, or government entities responsible for road maintenance.
Building the Case
Our team works to establish all elements necessary for a successful wrongful death claim:
- The defendant’s duty of care
- Breach of that duty
- Causation between the breach and death
- Resulting damages to surviving family members
Why Choose Our Baltimore Fatal Accident Lawyers
Our team of attorneys offers the following:
- Decades of combined experience handling wrongful death cases
- Compassionate, personalized attention to each family
- Resources to thoroughly investigate and litigate complex cases
- Clear communication throughout the process
- No fees unless we secure compensation for your family
Contact Our Baltimore Fatal Accident Lawyers
If your family has lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, we can help you understand your options. Contact Innovate Injury & Accident Lawyers for a FREE consultation today. We’ll handle all of the legal headache for you so you can focus on your family and healing together.
We’re available 24/7 to get you started.
Serving families throughout Baltimore and surrounding Maryland communities. Principal office located in Baltimore.
How much does it cost to hire a wrongful death lawyer?
We handle fatal accident cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we get compensation for your family. So, families can pursue justice regardless of their financial situation.