Baltimore, MD asked in Car Accidents for Maryland

Q: Was injured in an accident in DC but am a resident of MD - where would any lawsuit be filed?

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5 Lawyer Answers
Eric Todd Kirk
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Answered
  • Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Baltimore, MD
  • Licensed in Maryland

A: Jurisdictional analysis can be complicated. It certainly sounds like a claim could be brought in DC. But, an analysis might lead to other possible venues based on residence, diversity and the like. It's best to let a seasoned personal injury attorney take a look at this for you.

John Mesirow
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John Mesirow
Answered
  • Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Washington, DC
  • Licensed in Maryland

A: You can file it either in DC where the accident occurred, or where the person who hit your resides. If you were hit by a commercial vehicle that does business in multiple jurisdictions, you may have additional options. You should contact a personal injury lawyer in DC or MD.

Peter N. Munsing
Peter N. Munsing
Answered
  • Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Wyomissing, PA
  • Licensed in Maryland

A: Feel free to call if you have further questions but you bring the case where the person responsible

lives or does substantial business, or where the wreck happened. You get hit by a fedex truck, you may sue Fedex pretty much anywhere but the driver only where the driver lives.

However even if you sued in Md. it might be transfered to DC. Suggest you get a DC attorney. If you need names let me know.

Mark Oakley
Mark Oakley
Answered
  • Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Rockville, MD
  • Licensed in Maryland

A: Ordinarily it should be filed in the District of Columbia, which is the place of accident. The Superior Court of the District of Columbia would have jurisdiction over the responding police officers, any EMS crews and hospital medical personnel, plus by federal law Extraterritorial subpoena jurisdiction of 25 miles beyond the District’s borders to reach witnesses, records and other evidence such as your Maryland based physicians. Also, depending on the severity of the injuries and potential damage claims, the District has no cap on pain and suffering damages, unlike Maryland and Virginia. Hire an experienced attorney to represent you in this matter.

Ronald V. Miller Jr.
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Ronald V. Miller Jr. pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered
  • Personal Injury Lawyer
  • Baltimore, MD
  • Licensed in Maryland

A: Can't answer the question in a vacuum. You can certainly sue in D.C. You may be able to sue in Maryland depending upon the driver's residency and contacts with Maryland.

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