Virginia Injury Lawyers Blog
Losing someone in a violent car crash is one of the most challenging moments a family can face. When that crash involves a head-on collision, the impact is often deadly. If your loved one died in a crash that may have involved driver error, you have the right to pursue legal action. That includes the right to file a wrongful death claim and seek compensation for both financial loss and emotional pain.
Maryland State Police are still investigating a fatal crash that occurred just after 2:00 p.m. on Route 97 in Carroll County. According to early reports, a southbound vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic and struck a pickup truck head-on. The driver of the pickup was taken to Carroll Hospital and later died. The other driver was airlifted to a trauma center. Once the investigation is complete, the findings will be reviewed by the State’s Attorney’s Office to determine whether charges will be filed.
Wrongful Death Claims in Maryland After a Car Crash
In Maryland, families may file a wrongful death claim when someone dies due to another person’s careless or reckless behavior. These claims can help recover damages for funeral costs, lost income, and the emotional loss that comes from losing a close relative. You don’t have to wait for criminal charges to be filed to start this process.
If the evidence shows that the other driver caused the crash by crossing the center line, the surviving family may have a strong claim in civil court. The fact that an investigation is ongoing does not prevent you from speaking with an attorney now. Acting early helps protect your right to obtain and preserve key evidence.
Proving Fault in a Head-On Crash
Head-on collisions often result from driver distraction, speeding, fatigue, or unsafe lane changes. In many cases, a driver may drift into oncoming traffic without realizing it. Even if the cause of the crash is not immediately apparent, investigators will examine vehicle positions, skid marks, and witness statements to determine what happened.
The Maryland State Police Crash Team is handling the investigation in this case. Once they complete their analysis, their findings will likely include critical details about the speed, direction, and response of each driver. That information can help support a wrongful death claim if negligence is found.
Medical Transport and Airlift Costs Can Be Recovered
When a crash victim is flown by helicopter to a trauma center, the cost of that transport can be extremely high. In severe cases, multiple emergency providers may be involved. If you or your loved one was injured in a crash caused by someone else, you should not have to bear those costs. A legal claim may include the price of medical flights, hospital stays, surgery, and rehabilitation.
In addition to medical costs, injured victims can seek damages for lost wages, reduced earning ability, and long-term disability. An experienced attorney can calculate the full extent of your losses and push back against low insurance offers.
Why You Should Not Wait to Contact an Attorney
Evidence fades quickly after a crash. Witnesses become harder to find, and vehicles are often repaired or destroyed before they can be inspected. If you are considering legal action, it is essential to speak with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Your lawyer can communicate with law enforcement, request records, and guide your family through what comes next.
Maryland’s statute of limitations for wrongful death and personal injury claims is generally three years, but waiting even a few months can hurt your case. Early legal help makes it easier to uncover the truth and hold the responsible party accountable.
Call The Schupak Law Firm for Help After a Fatal Crash
If your loved one was killed or seriously hurt in a head-on crash, The Schupak Law Firm is here to help you take the next step. We represent victims and families in wrongful death and personal injury cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. You do not have to face the aftermath of a tragedy on your own. Call The Schupak Law Firm at (240) 833-3914 for a free consultation. Let us help you pursue the justice and compensation your family deserves.