Car insurance claims aren’t just paperwork. They’re the moments you’d rather forget: a fender bender in traffic, a deer jumping out at dusk, or worse. No one plans for an accident, but understanding what causes most car insurance claims in Maryland can help you avoid becoming a statistic. Here are the top five reasons drivers file claims in Maryland, along with practical steps to stay safe.
1. Distracted Driving
Distraction is a leading cause of crashes in Maryland. It’s not just texting; eating, adjusting the radio, or tending to kids in the back seat all take your eyes off the road.
State highway safety data shows that a significant share of fatal crashes involve distracted driving. Even a two-second glance at your phone at highway speed means you’ve traveled a football field blind.
How to avoid it: Put your phone out of reach. Set your GPS before you shift into drive. If you need to handle something, pull over safely.
2. Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speed limits exist for a reason. The faster you go, the less time you have to react. Maryland crash data shows that speeding is involved in thousands of injury crashes each year.
Aggressive driving, such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights, only makes it worse. It’s a major contributor to collisions statewide.
How to avoid it: Leave five minutes earlier. Give yourself space between you and the car ahead. If someone cuts you off, let it go. Arriving safely matters more than arriving first.
3. Impaired Driving
Alcohol and drugs remain a persistent problem on Maryland roads. State data shows impairment is a factor in roughly one-third of traffic fatalities. Even a “buzz” can slow your reflexes and cloud your judgment.
How to avoid it: Plan ahead. Designate a sober driver. Use a rideshare. The cost of a ride is nothing compared to a crash or the legal trouble that follows.
4. Weather and Road Hazards
Maryland sees its share of heavy rain, snow, and ice. Wet roads reduce traction. Snow hides lane markings. Summer storms can reduce visibility in seconds.
Wildlife is another hazard. Deer are most active at dawn and dusk, especially in suburban and rural areas. Hitting one can cause serious damage and serious injuries.
How to avoid it: Slow down in bad weather. Increase your following distance. Use your headlights. And stay alert for deer, especially near wooded areas and at dawn or dusk.
5. Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end crashes are among the most common claims filed in Maryland. They often happen in stop-and-go traffic or at intersections when a driver isn’t paying attention.
The driver in the back is usually found at fault, even if the car ahead stopped suddenly. That means higher premiums and a claim on your record.
How to avoid it: Keep a safe following distance. Watch for brake lights ahead. Avoid tailgating, especially in heavy traffic. And put the phone down; distraction is a major cause of these crashes.
What to Do If You’re in an Accident
Even careful drivers can get into a crash. If it happens to you:
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt
- Exchange information with the other driver
- Take photos of the damage
- Contact your insurance company promptly
And if you’re looking for coverage that fits your situation, especially if you’ve had trouble getting insured elsewhere, MAIF can help you get back on the road.
Learn More With MAIF
Most claims come down to a few preventable behaviors: distraction, speed, impairment, weather, and following too closely. You can’t control everything on the road, but you can control how you drive.
Stay focused. Slow down. Plan ahead. And make sure your coverage is in place before you need it. Contact MAIF today to learn more about handling an auto insurance claim.