Probably anyone who knows how to ride a motorcycle remembers navigating their first set of railroad tracks. To be sure, even railroad tracks that are no longer used pose a potential threat to motorcyclists, who can lose traction and skid out over the smooth surface of the tracks unless they are crossed in a perpendicular direction. However, active railroad tracks present a much more serious danger to all motorists, including Maryland motorcyclists.
While not necessarily one of the top causes of Maryland bicycle accidents, several bicyclists and motorcyclists are involved in accidents on or near railroad crossings each year. While most of these accidents do not involve speeding trains, the danger is still present, and motorcyclists should take precautions whenever crossing railroad tracks. This is especially because a motorcyclist may not be able to hear a train’s horn over the sound of the bike’s engine.
Of course, not all the burden of avoiding an accident rests with the motorcyclist. The railroad company is responsible for the maintenance of a track, and local government agencies are tasked with ensuring that railroad crossings are safely designed to reduce the risk of an accident. When a motorcycle accident occurs on or near a railroad track, anyone injured as a result of the accident should reach out to a dedicated Maryland motorcycle accident attorney to discuss their case.
Bicyclist Killed at Florida Railroad Crossing
Earlier this month, one man was killed as he was struck by a passing train as he pedaled his bike across an active railroad track. According to a local news report, the accident was the second involving the high-speed rail line in the span of just one week.
Evidently, the railroad-crossing gates had descended, and the red flashing lights were illuminated, but the bicyclist was able to pedal around the gates. As the bicyclist crossed the tracks, the train struck him, killing him instantly. In the wake of the accident, some lawmakers have called for an investigation into the deaths to see what could be done to prevent future accidents, while other lawmakers have introduced bills that would further regulate the railroad industry, as well as the safety features that are installed at major intersections.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Bicycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in any kind of Maryland motorcycle or bicycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Even if you believe that your injuries were caused by “accident,” there may be potentially liable parties. The dedicated Maryland personal injury lawyers at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have extensive experience assisting victims and their clients with evaluating their cases and pursuing compensation aggressively when appropriate. To learn more, and to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Maryland personal injury attorney today, call 410-654-3600. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for our services unless we are able to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
Court Discusses Recreational Use Immunity Statute in Recent Bicycle Injury Case, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 18, 2018.
Bicycle Accidents on Maryland Roads, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 5, 2018.