When driving, it can often be hard for drivers to spot motorcyclists, especially if road or weather conditions are poor. Because motorcycle drivers do not have the protective casing and shell of a traditional car to protect them in the event of an accident, collisions involving a motorcycle and a car can often lead to significant injuries and even death. For drivers and motorcyclists alike, remaining vigilant on the road and exercising certain best practices can keep everyone safe.
According to a recent news report, a major motorcycle accident left one man dead. Local police responded to a four-vehicle crash at an intersection where investigators determined that a motorcycle that was traveling west collided with a Dodge that was turning left. The initial collision then caused both the Dodge and the motorcycle to crash into a Ford that was stopped at the traffic light. The motorcycle then also collided with a Toyota that was stopped at the light. After this series of collisions, the motorcycle driver was thrown from his bike and pronounced dead at the scene. According to local authorities, no one else involved in the accident was seriously injured or hurt. Although the accident remains under investigation, police believe that speed may have been a contributing factor in the accident.
Inexperience, driving under the influence, left-hand turns, speeding, and negligent or reckless driving are among the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. In addition, unsafe lane changes, car doors, lane splitting, and sudden stops also contribute to a number of motorcycle accidents each year. At intersections, motorcyclists are particularly susceptible to accidents. In fact, approximately 70 percent of motorcycle collisions take place at intersections.
Who Is at Fault in Most Motorcycle Accidents?
In more than two-thirds of motorcycle accidents involving another car, the driver of the other vehicle violated the motorcyclist’s right of way and caused the resulting collision. To add to the severity of the danger, motorcycle riders are roughly 26 times more likely to die in an accident than a passenger in a regular vehicle, and five times as likely to be injured. Although the number of fatalities for drivers of passenger vehicles has been decreasing since 1999, the fatality rate for motorcycle accidents has nearly doubled since then.
Unfortunately, Maryland is no stranger to motorcycle accidents. Drivers often have trouble seeing motorcycles on the road since they are smaller visual targets. Because motorcycles can often be obscured by other vehicles and this issue is only exacerbated when weather conditions are poor or it is dark outside, this can make for particularly challenging road hazards. Other times, road hazards caused by debris from previous accidents or poor infrastructure can also contribute to motorcycle accidents and subsequent injuries.
Do You Need a Maryland Personal Injury Lawyer?
If you or someone you know was recently injured or killed in a Maryland motorcycle accident, contact the lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen today. Our compassionate lawyers will provide you with the support and advocacy you need to proceed with your legal claim. To schedule a free initial consultation today, contact us at 800-654-1949.
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