Insurance Claim Rights in Maryland
Maryland is one of the few remaining contributory negligence states, meaning any fault on your part can completely bar recovery. This makes Maryland one of the most challenging states for insurance claims. The state requires both PIP coverage ($2,500 minimum) and uninsured motorist coverage, providing some baseline protection regardless of fault.
30/60/15
Min. Liability
3 yrs
PI Deadline
3 yrs
PD Deadline
Yes
Diminished Value
Fault System
How Maryland's At-Fault (Tort) System Works
Maryland is an at-fault (tort) state. This means the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for the other party's damages. After an accident, you file a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company. If the claim is denied or undervalued, you have the right to file a lawsuit to recover your damages.
Deadlines
Statute of Limitations in Maryland
Personal Injury
3 Years
You have 3 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Maryland. Missing this deadline permanently bars your right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Property Damage
3 Years
For property damage claims (vehicle repairs, total loss, personal property), Maryland allows 3 years to file a lawsuit. This includes diminished value claims if applicable. Report damage to your insurer as soon as possible: report to insurer within 30 days; pip claims should be filed promptly.
Coverage Requirements
Minimum Auto Insurance in Maryland
Maryland requires all drivers to carry at least 30/60/15 in liability coverage. These numbers represent the minimum bodily injury per person / bodily injury per accident / property damage limits in thousands of dollars. While these are the legal minimums, higher coverage is strongly recommended.
Bodily Injury / Person
$30,000
Maximum per injured person
Bodily Injury / Accident
$60,000
Maximum per accident total
Property Damage
$15,000
Maximum for property damage
Diminished Value
Diminished Value Claims in Maryland
Maryland Allows Diminished Value Claims
After an accident in Maryland, your vehicle may lose market value even after high-quality repairs — this is called "diminished value." Maryland allows you to file a diminished value claim against the at-fault driver's insurance to recover the difference between your vehicle's pre-accident and post-repair market value. The amount recoverable depends on the vehicle's age, mileage, damage severity, and repair quality.
Calculate your diminished valueKey Laws
Important Insurance Laws in Maryland
Maryland follows the strict contributory negligence doctrine — if you are even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovery (Md. Cts. & Jud. Proc. Code § 3-1401).
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage of $2,500 is mandatory in Maryland.
Uninsured motorist coverage is required and must be offered at liability limits.
Resources
Maryland Department of Insurance
If you have a complaint about your insurance company or need help with a claim dispute in Maryland, contact the state Department of Insurance. They regulate insurance companies operating in Maryland and can assist with claim disputes, bad faith complaints, and coverage questions.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland Insurance Claims
How does contributory negligence affect my Maryland claim?
Maryland's contributory negligence rule is one of the strictest in the country. If you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be completely barred from recovering any damages from the other driver. This makes establishing clear fault attribution extremely important.
Does Maryland require PIP coverage?
Yes, Maryland requires PIP coverage of at least $2,500 per person. PIP covers medical expenses regardless of fault. You can purchase higher PIP limits. Maryland also requires uninsured motorist coverage.
What is the statute of limitations in Maryland?
Maryland has a 3-year statute of limitations for both personal injury and property damage claims from a car accident. This gives you a reasonable window to build your case and negotiate with insurers.
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