Here are some things that you will need to consider when it comes to minors and car accident settlements.
Some of the most tragic types of car accidents are those that affect children and minors, harming them at such an early stage of their life. But, when it comes to filing a lawsuit in this case, the fact that minors were involved can complicate the situation. Here are some things that you will need to consider when it comes to minors and car accident settlements.
Who Files the Claim?
In most states, including Maryland, it isn’t legal for minors under the age of 18 to file a claim. This means that in car accidents specifically, a person who is not a minor will have to file for them. This is called a “next friend” claim, and the friend is usually the minor’s parent or guardian. If you are a minor or related to a minor who was in a car accident, now is the time to discuss who will file the claim.
Statute of Limitations
As you may know, the statute of limitations sets a time limit for how long you have for your case to be valid. This is a little different for minors; in some states, the statute of limitations does not come into play until the minor turns 21, and then they will have a certain period of time to file after that. It’s important to ask a legal professional what the statute of limitations is for your particular case.
Damages
Typically, the damages, that is, the compensation you will receive, will be awarded to the person who files the claim. Because the situation is different for minors, this might influence whether the minor, their guardian, or both receives the damages. As with most personal injury cases, the types of damages you could expect to receive are for medical care, loss of income, and physical and emotional suffering.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts settlements*. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, for more information and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.