Do Truck Accident Cases Need to Go to Trial in Maryland?

 Posted on December 30, 2025 in Car Accidents

Truck accident cases in Maryland do not usually go to trial. Most claims are resolved through settlement before a courtroom is ever involved. Still, some cases do end up before a judge or jury when liability is disputed or the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.

Truck crashes are often severe. Because these cases involve high stakes and complex evidence, you should speak with our Washington County, MD truck accident lawyer early. We can help you understand the negotiation and settlement process.

Why Do Most Truck Accident Cases Settle in Maryland?

Most truck accident cases settle because trials are risky and expensive for all sides. Insurance companies often prefer predictable outcomes rather than leaving decisions to a jury.

Truck accident claims usually involve clear evidence, such as police reports, crash data, and medical records. When liability is reasonably clear, insurers may choose to negotiate rather than risk a trial verdict that could be much higher.

Settlements also allow injured people to receive compensation faster. Trials can take months or even years to resolve.

What Makes Truck Accident Cases More Complicated Than Car Accidents?

Truck accident cases are more complex than standard car accident claims. This is generally because multiple parties may be involved. In addition to the truck driver, responsible parties may include the trucking company, a maintenance provider, or even a cargo loader. Federal and state safety rules may also apply.

Maryland law allows injured people to seek compensation when another party’s negligence causes harm. This is outlined in Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings Code § 5-101, which sets the deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits. The need to investigate multiple parties often increases pressure to settle rather than litigate.

What Factors Increase the Chances of a Truck Accident Case Going to Trial?

While most cases settle, some are more likely to go to trial. This usually happens when there is a serious dispute or an especially large amount of money at stake.

Common factors that may push a case toward trial include:

• Disagreements about who caused the crash

• Claims that the injured person contributed to the accident

• Severe or permanent injuries with high damages

• Insurance companies denying responsibility

How Does Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Rule Affect Trial Decisions?

Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule. Under this rule, if an injured person is found even slightly at fault, recovery may be barred. This legal standard often leads to hard-fought cases when fault is disputed.

Because contributory negligence is so strict, insurance companies may be more willing to take a case to trial if they believe they can prove the injured person was even minimally at fault. On the other hand, strong evidence against the trucking company may encourage settlement to avoid that risk.

What Evidence Is Used in Truck Accident Cases?

Evidence plays a major role in determining whether a case settles or goes to trial. Truck accident cases often involve more technical evidence than car crashes. Common evidence may include:

• Police crash reports and witness statements

• Truck driver logs and electronic data

• Maintenance and inspection records

• Medical records and expert opinions

Strong evidence can encourage settlement. Weak or disputed evidence may increase the chance of a trial.

What Should You Expect if Your Truck Accident Case Goes to Trial in Maryland?

When a case goes to trial, don’t expect it to be resolved quickly. Trials involve discovery, expert testimony, and court scheduling. Judges or juries decide fault and damages based on the evidence presented. Trials can be stressful, but they also provide an opportunity to fully present the facts when settlement is not possible. Even after a trial begins, cases may still settle before a verdict is reached.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Boonsboro, MD Truck Accident Attorney

Attorney Andrew A. Serafini, Jr. brings more than 12 years of experience to these cases. He works on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no fee unless compensation is recovered. Clients describe his approach as supportive and responsive, but he is always aggressive with insurance companies and other defendants when necessary.

If you were injured in a truck accident and have questions about whether your case may settle or go to trial, contact Serafini Law at 240-744-1600 to schedule a free consultation with our Washington County, MD truck accident lawyer. We are available 24/7.