Legal Question in Personal Injury in Maryland

Passenger in Car accident

I was in maryland visiting my daughters,when a friend and I went to Delaware to the store, we were at a complete stop when we were rear ended by a 17 year old who was cited for innatentive driving. we went to her family physician that day and were sent for exrays etc as I had pain in the back of my neck and back,nothing was broken thank god but the remainder of my vacation was spent in pain, and now that i have returned home to sc im unable to sit for long periods *which my job depends on*..I have yet to hear from his insurance company ..what should I do. I have no medical insurance so it will be extremley expensive for me to see a doctor.*can i send the bill to his insurance company??


Asked on 7/22/02, 7:21 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Robert Johnston Law Offices of Robert J. Johnston

Re: Passenger in Car accident

With all due respect to the other lawyer that answered your question, I disagree with him or her to the extent that you do not have to bring a claim in the state where the other driver lives. Generally speaking, you can bring the claim in EITHER his or her's state, OR the state where the accident occured. Yes, you should send the insurance company your medical bill. But you should first, call the insurance company, ask for the claims department, set up a claim and get a claim number (you can do this over the phone). You should not settle with them until you are absolutely sure that you have resolved your medical problems. Lastly, be aware that all states have what is called Statute of Limitations, which set forth a time frame in which you have to file suit. If you do not file within the time frame, you could be barred from ever doing so. Good luck.

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Answered on 7/23/02, 7:59 am
Lawrence Holzman Holzman Law Firm, LLC

Re: Passenger in Car accident

What state was the "inattentive driver" from? That question is key to determining which state to file suit in ---- typcially, there is coverage that may assist you with medical expenses that is provided by your own auto insurance carrier as well as your friends' carrier and, of course, that of the inattentive driver. A person in your shoes would frequently make claims with all of the above. At least one should pay your bills -- though you would be well-advised to contact an atty to get this complicated matter sorted-out.

Lawrence R. Holzman, Esquire

Joseph, Greenwald & Laake, P.A.

6404 Ivy Lane, Suite 400

Greenbelt, MD 20770

(301) 220-2200

fax (301) 220-1214

Disclaimer: Please note that the posting of this response is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should contact an attorney to obtain information applicable to your situation. This posting is not confidential or privileged and does not create an attorney/client relationship.

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Answered on 7/22/02, 7:57 pm


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