Violent Carjacking Leads to Crash on I-695
On February 25, 2021, two suspects carjacked a Honda Crosstour during rush hour in Rosedale. The Honda belonged to a woman who was assaulted by the carjackers. The suspects then got onto I-695 and attempted to exit Pulaski Highway when they collided with a trash truck.
According to Baltimore County Police, the suspects are Daryl Maurice Brown, 19, and Robert Louis Davis, 18. Brown has been charged with robbery, theft, and assault while Davis is charged with assault, theft, and robbery.
The suspects and truck driver were hospitalized but there have been no updates on their condition. The victim of the carjacking was treated and released. Brown and Davis are currently held without bond at the Baltimore County Detention Center.
The collision caused all lanes of the I-695 inner loop to close for several hours, diverting traffic to Route 40.
Damages Allowed in Carjacking Cases in Maryland
Carjacking is a traumatic and often violent crime that can leave victims with significant physical, emotional, and financial damage. If you are a victim of a carjacking incident in Maryland, understanding the types of damages you may be entitled to can help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve.
There are various types of damages that the law allows someone to claim in a motor vehicle accident. A person is not limited to just claiming their medical bills as damages. A plaintiff may be able to claim time absent from work related to the injury or receive treatment for the injury.
Additionally, expenses related to medical treatment, such as travel to and from the doctor and prescription medication, are also damages that can be claimed. One must also factor in mental and physical pain and suffering claims as part of any plaintiff’s injury case.
Economic Damages
Medical Expenses: Victims of carjacking may incur substantial medical bills for immediate and ongoing treatment. This includes emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical needs related to the incident.
Lost Wages: If the carjacking results in injuries that prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income. This includes not only current lost wages but also future earning capacity if your ability to work is permanently affected.
Property Damage: Compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property damaged or stolen during the carjacking can be claimed. This also includes the cost of alternative transportation while your vehicle is being repaired or replaced.
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and Suffering: Carjacking victims often endure physical pain and suffering due to their injuries. This type of damage compensates you for the physical discomfort and ongoing pain resulting from the incident.
Emotional Distress: The psychological impact of a violent carjacking can be profound. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other emotional conditions. Compensation for emotional distress addresses these non-tangible impacts on your mental health and well-being.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injuries or trauma from the carjacking significantly affect your ability to enjoy daily activities or hobbies you once loved, you may be eligible to claim damages for loss of enjoyment of life.
Specific Legal Considerations in Maryland
Comparative Negligence: Maryland follows the doctrine of contributory negligence, which means that if you are found to be even slightly at fault for the incident, you may be barred from recovering any damages. This makes it crucial to have strong legal representation to establish the full liability of the carjacker.
Statute of Limitations: In Maryland, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those resulting from carjacking, is typically three years from the date of the incident. Failing to file within this period can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Punitive Damages: While less common, Maryland law allows for punitive damages in cases where the defendant's conduct was particularly egregious or malicious. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
How Our Baltimore Carjacking Attorneys Can Help You!
Navigating the legal complexities of a carjacking case in Maryland can be challenging. It is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights and advocate for your best interests. They can assist in gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing you in court if necessary.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a carjacking, don’t hesitate to seek the legal support you need to pursue justice and secure the compensation you are entitled to. Your recovery and peace of mind are paramount.
Miller Stern Lawyers is a team of experienced lawyers who represent the injured. They investigate the many factors that cause car crashes. Many people are unaware of how insurance companies do not work for the injured. Their goal is to give the injured as little compensation as possible. An attorney has the expertise to tackle these issues and fight for your rights.
Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation to discuss your carjacking case!