Each accident is different, and when it comes to determining which party was responsible for causing a Maryland bicycle accident, courts consider a number of factors. Of course, accidents involving drunk driving, or other violations of the traffic law, make determining fault easier; however, even in these situations the accident victim may encounter a difficult time recovering financial compensation for their injuries.
The reason Maryland bicycle accident victims may have a difficult time is due to the state’s contributory negligence rule. Under Maryland law, anyone who is even the slightest bit at fault for causing the accident that resulted in their injuries is precluded by law from recovering from any other party involved in the accident.
Most other states employ a much more victim-friendly approach, under which a partially at-fault accident victim can be awarded damages for their injuries, but the amount of damages awarded will be reduced by their own percentage of fault. Under Maryland law, however, even a bicycle accident victim who is determined to be just five percent at fault will be precluded from obtaining compensation for their injuries.
Thus, it is very important for Maryland bicycle accident victims to discuss their case with a dedicated Maryland personal injury attorney as soon as possible to determine the strength of their case and what they can do to pursue a claim for compensation against the other responsible drivers.
Bicyclist Killed While Crossing the Street
Recently, one man was killed when he was struck by a car while he was riding across the street. According to a local news report covering the tragic accident, the vehicle that struck the bicyclist was traveling in the curb lane when he struck the bicyclist as the bicyclist attempted to cross the street in front of the vehicle. The bicyclist was taken to the hospital, where he later died from the injuries he sustained in the accident.
Details surrounding the accident are sparse, and authorities have asked any witnesses to come forward in hopes of piecing together what happened in the moments leading up to the collision. No charges have been filed against the motorist at this point, although that may change as authorities wrap up their investigation.
Have You Been injured in a Maryland Bicycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland bicycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries you have sustained. The dedicated Maryland bicycle accident attorneys at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC have extensive experience representing injury victims and their family members pursue claims for compensation against those responsible for their injuries or losses. We are keenly familiar with the strict rules in Maryland that limit the class of accident victims who are able to recover for their injuries, and know what it takes to succeed on our clients’ behalf. To learn more, call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation today.
More Blog Posts:
Can a Motorcycle Passenger Hold a Driver Liable for Injuries in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published August 30, 2018.
Maryland Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Improper Passing and Lane Changes, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published August 7, 2018.