We all know car accidents happen every day. But in the Baltimore-Washington area, fatal car crashes seem to be occurring at a more alarming rate recently. For example, in October alone, there were three fatal car accidents on the Baltimore/Washington Parkway. While investigators are still determining the cause of these crashes, three accidents on the same highway are three too many.
How Are Fatal Car Crash Scenes Investigated?
Police will immediately be called to the scene to investigate the crash site. This process will include several photographs of the vehicles, the road where the accident occurred, and the surrounding area. The crash scene could also be taped off and secured as if it were a homicide scene to preserve evidence.
Investigators will also often study the skid marks left by the vehicles, as these can be valuable sources of information concerning the speed of the vehicles. The damage to the cars will also be scrutinized, as this can help determine how the vehicles collided and how much impact was involved. All of this information will prove useful to both law enforcement and attorneys in any determination of liability.
What Else Is Investigated in Fatal Car Crashes?
Part of most fatal car crash investigations involves the pulling of records. For one, police will check to see if either party has a prior police record. Also important in these investigations are cell phone records. Having someone’s cell phone records pulled can be a bit complicated–in most cases, a subpoena is required to obtain these records, but they can be extremely valuable in helping identify what may have been happening at the moment of impact.
Was a driver talking on the phone? Was he or she texting? Which apps were running at the time of the accident? Did any of these activities ultimately cause the accident? All of these factors can make or break a claim and contribute to a judge or jury’s decision when it comes to settlements.
Why Hiring a Qualified Attorney Is Important
When dealing with tragic cases such as these, nothing will replace the loss of a loved one. At this point, you only want to see justice served for the loved ones of the victim.
Having a qualified attorney on your side goes a long way toward helping justice be done. A skilled and experienced car crash attorney, such as those at The Lapidus Law Firm, will review every detail of the case and determine whether a fair and reasonable settlement is a realistic possibility.
Fatal Car Crashes: How Legal Matters Unfold
If you find yourself in this tragic and unfortunate situation, please call The Lapidus Law Firm at (202) 785-5111 or (301) 852-7500 to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.
If we take on your case, our attorneys will work tirelessly on your behalf–this includes conversations with law enforcement, negotiations with insurance companies, and discussions with other attorneys–so you can take care of your family. We’re here to help, because we take pride in Making Justice Work For You.