Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Maryland law and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer
To prove negligence in a Maryland collision at a traffic signal or exit, you must show four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. You will rely on various forms of evidence to establish each element.
1. Establishing the Four Elements of Negligence
- Duty of Care: Every driver owes a duty to operate a vehicle safely and obey traffic controls. Under Maryland law, a driver approaching a traffic signal must comply with Transportation Code § 21-202, and a driver entering or exiting a roadway must yield as required by Transportation Code § 21-302 or § 21-304.
- Breach of Duty: You must show the other motorist violated the standard of care—such as running a red light, failing to signal, or ignoring a yield sign.
- Causation: You must link the breach directly to your injuries or property damage.
- Damages: You must prove actual losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and repair costs.
2. Key Evidence Types
- Accident Scene Photos and Diagrams: Capture vehicle positions, skid marks, traffic signals, exit signage, and road conditions immediately after the crash.
- Traffic Signal and Signal-Timing Data: Request maintenance logs and timing reports from the local municipality or State Highway Administration to confirm whether the signals functioned properly at the time of the collision (Md. Transp. Code § 21-202).
- Video Footage: Obtain dash-cam, traffic-camera, or nearby security-camera recordings that show the other driver’s conduct.
- Eyewitness Statements: Collect signed, written accounts from bystanders who saw the violation (e.g., running a red light or improper lane change).
- Police Crash Report: A law-enforcement report often notes citations issued, initial fault findings, and recorded statements from drivers and witnesses.
- Vehicle “Black Box” Data: Electronic data recorders may reveal speed, braking times, and throttle position just before impact.
- Expert Analysis: Accident reconstruction specialists can model the collision dynamics to show how the other driver’s conduct caused the crash.
3. Exit-Ramp Specific Evidence
For collisions at highway exits or on-ramps, also gather:
- Road design plans showing signage placement and visibility.
- Maintenance records for exit signs and pavement markings.
- Traffic studies indicating typical flow and potential hazards at that exit.
Helpful Hints
- Begin collecting evidence immediately—photos and videos degrade or vanish over time.
- Submit timely public records requests for signal logs and camera footage.
- Get all witnesses’ contact information before they disperse.
- Keep a detailed chronology of your medical treatment and vehicle repairs.
- Consult a Maryland attorney early to preserve critical evidence and deadlines.