Back in August of last year, a 25-year-old man from the Cleveland area was killed when he was stuck while riding his motorcycle. According to one local news report, the man who struck the motorcyclist fled the scene after the accident and it was subsequently discovered that he was under the influence of alcohol. The driver who caused the fatal motorcycle accident was just sentenced last week to seven-and-one-half years’ imprisonment.
Evidently, as a part of the sentencing process, the victim’s family had an opportunity to speak out about their loss, how much the deceased meant to them, and how different their lives were now that he was gone. The judge allowed each family member to testify one by one before sentencing the driver.
The family has since told reporters that they are unsatisfied with the sentence, explaining that “it is not enough. Absolutely not. He should have gotten at least 13” years, which is the statutory maximum for the offense in Ohio.
Seeking Justice in Maryland Motorcycle Cases
This case took place in Ohio, where there are slightly different laws than here in Maryland. But the case does a good job illustrating the fact that the criminal justice system may not be a sufficient means for the family of accident victims to feel that they have achieved justice.
The family of the man who was killed in the accident was hoping that the judge would sentence the hit-and-run driver to the maximum term of imprisonment; however, despite their testimony the judge ended up imposing a more lenient sentence. When this situation arises, the family of a deceased accident victim may wish to file a civil cause of action against the negligent driver.
Wrongful Death: Recovering After a Fatal Accident
The laws in Maryland permit the immediate family members of a deceased accident victim to file a wrongful death suit against the responsible parties. Similar to a traditional negligence action, a wrongful death suit claims that another party’s negligent act caused the death of their loved one. Of course, there are various elements that must be met as well as procedural hurdles that must be overcome before a case can be set for trial or open for settlement negotiations. To learn more, contact a dedicated Maryland accident attorney.
Have You Lost a Loved One in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
If you have recently lost a loved one in a Maryland motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your loss. However, you should keep in mind that the process can be a complex and lengthy one, and is best handled by an experienced personal injury attorney. The skilled advocates at Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have decades of combined experience bringing all kinds of Maryland personal injury cases, including those arising from fatal motorcycle accidents. To speak with an attorney about your case, call 410-654-3600 to set up a free consultation.
More Blog Posts:
Episcopal Bishop Asked to Resign After Involvement in Fatal Bicycle Accident, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published February 26, 2015.
Motorcycle Accident on Inner Loop Injures One, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 21, 2015.