A fender bender in a parking lot may seem too small to report. You exchange information, check for damage and assume the matter is over. But even a minor crash can cause problems later if hidden damage, delayed injuries or a dispute about what happened comes up.
Maryland law imposes duties after a crash
Maryland law generally requires drivers in a crash to take certain steps. Those duties depend on whether the crash caused injuries, death or property damage.
For example, drivers involved in a crash that causes bodily injury or death generally must stop, stay at the scene and give required information. For damage to an attended vehicle or other attended property, drivers must stop, stay at the scene and exchange identifying and vehicle information. Different rules might apply when an unattended vehicle or other property is damaged.
Maryland also requires a written report to the Motor Vehicle Administration in some injury or death cases. That report is generally not required when police have investigated the crash and filed a report.
Insurance companies may need prompt notice
Insurance policies often require quick accident reporting and cooperation with the insurer. Even when damage seems minor, telling your insurance company promptly can help preserve evidence and let the insurer investigate sooner.
The other driver could later report an injury or damage that was not obvious at the scene. Taking photos, exchanging insurance information and writing down what happened can help create a clear record.
Injuries may not appear immediately
Some crash-related injuries do not show up right away. Pain, stiffness, headaches or other symptoms may appear later, especially after the stress of the crash passes.
If symptoms appear, get medical care and explain that they started after the crash. Medical records can help show when the symptoms began and what treatment was needed.
A report can help preserve evidence
A police report is not required for every minor Maryland crash. But when police investigate an accident, their report can provide an independent record. Other helpful evidence includes:
- Photos of the vehicles and scene
- Insurance and contact information
- Witness statements
- Dashcam or surveillance footage
- Medical records
- Repair estimates and vehicle records
Gathering and preserving this documentation promptly helps establish an accurate timeline of events, protecting your interests during insurance investigations or legal claims.
Protect your rights after a Maryland crash
Reporting and documenting a crash promptly can help protect you if injuries or damage appear later. If you are unsure whether your Maryland crash must be reported or how it may affect an insurance or injury claim, an attorney can review the facts and explain your options.