This guide explains what to do after a car accident on York Road or I-695 near Towson, MD. It also shows why the steps you take in the first hours can shape your entire legal case. Knowing when to involve a car accident attorney can also protect your claim.

York Road and I-695 are among Baltimore County's busiest corridors. Crashes range from multi-vehicle pile-ups on the Beltway to intersection collisions near Towson Town Center and the Dulaney Valley Road interchange. Knowing what to do from the moment a crash happens may protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation.

Step 1: Secure the Scene and Call 911

Move to safety first. If your vehicle can be moved safely, pull it out of active traffic lanes. On I-695, staying in a travel lane after a crash puts everyone at risk.

Call 911 immediately. Maryland law generally requires you to report accidents involving injury, death, or significant property damage. A police report is critical evidence for any insurance claim or lawsuit. Do not skip this step, even if the other driver asks you to settle privately.

Step 2: Document Evidence at the Scene

Evidence disappears fast. Start photographing and recording as soon as it is safe to do so.

On York Road, capture the exact intersection, traffic signals, skid marks, and nearby businesses that may have security cameras. On I-695, note the nearest mile marker, exit number, and direction of travel. Collect the following:

• Full name, address, phone number, and driver's license number of every driver involved.
• Insurance company name and policy number for each vehicle.
• Names and contact information for any witnesses.
• Badge number and name of the responding officer.
• Photos of all vehicle damage, road conditions, weather, and visible injuries.

Step 3: Seek Medical Attention Right Away

Get checked by a doctor even if you feel fine. Injuries like whiplash may not produce symptoms for hours or days. A gap in treatment gives an insurance adjuster reason to argue your injuries were not caused by the crash. Medical records tied to the date of your accident are important for building your case. A car accident attorney can help you collect and organize these records.

What to Know About Maryland Insurance Adjusters

Maryland is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for compensating injured parties. However, Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule. If you are found even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering anything. Avoid giving a recorded statement to any insurance company before speaking with an attorney.

Maryland also requires all auto policies to include uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage at minimum liability limits unless waived in writing. If the at-fault driver has little or no insurance, your own UM/UIM coverage may provide a path to compensation. Because contributory negligence applies to UM/UIM claims as well, a single admitted mistake could eliminate your recovery. An attorney can review your policy and advise whether a UM/UIM claim makes sense.

When to Call a Car Accident Attorney



Call an attorney serving Towson, MD, as soon as you are physically able. Legal help is especially important if you were injured or fault is disputed. It also matters if the crash involved multiple vehicles or a commercial truck, or if an insurer quickly offers a settlement. Early offers are typically low and may not account for future medical costs.

Maryland's deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations, is generally three years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can permanently end your right to sue.