One of the major causes of motorcycle and bicycle accidents that involve another vehicle is the other driver’s failure to see the motorcycle or bicycle. Most often, the failure of a driver to see a motorcyclist or bicyclist is caused by one of several things. Perhaps most common is the driver’s inattention at the time of the accident. With the prevalence of text messaging and cell-phone navigation, drivers are spending more and more time on their phones while behind the wheel, even though it is against the law in most cases.
Another common cause of a driver’s failure to take notice of a motorcyclist or bicyclist is the slim frame that these smaller vehicles have. Most motorists are accustomed to sharing the road with other cars and trucks, and are able to adjust their behavior when they must share the road. However, the average motorist sees a motorcyclist far less often than they see other cars. This can lead a motorist to overlook a nearby motorcycle, and it can also make it difficult for a motorist to gauge the speed at which an oncoming motorcycle is approaching.
Regardless of why motorists routinely fail to notice motorcyclists and bicyclists, at the end of the day, it is the motorist’s responsibility to be familiar with their surroundings. If a motorist causes an accident because they didn’t see a motorcyclist or bicyclist, that will not necessarily be a valid reason to avoid liability.
Young Girl Killed After Being Struck While on Bicycle
Earlier this month, a tragic accident between an SUV and a bicycle claimed the life of a young girl. According to a local news report, the young girl was traveling east at around 8 a.m. when she was struck from behind by the SUV, which was also heading east. The girl was transported to an area hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
The responding police officer had a chance to speak with the driver of the SUV, who told them that the “blinding sunlight” prevented him from seeing the bicyclist. At this point, the driver of the SUV is not facing any criminal charges for his role in the fatal accident. It remains to be seen if any personal injury lawsuit will be filed by the girl’s family.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Motorcycle or Bicycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been a victim of a Maryland motorcycle or bicycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The laws in Maryland are strict, and only accident victims who are determined to not have been at all at fault for the accident will be permitted to recover damages. Thus, it is very important that you meet with a dedicated personal injury attorney who can help you assess the strength of your case and help you determine if your case should be pursued. The skilled injury attorneys at the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have extensive experience advising and representing clients in all types of personal injury matters, including motorcycle and bicycle accidents. Call 410-654-3600 today to schedule your free consultation to discuss your case with a dedicated personal injury advocate.
More Blog Posts:
Physical and Financial Recovery after a Serious Bicycle Accident, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published March 9, 2017.
Passengers Injured in Motorcycle Accidents May Have a Right to Recover Compensation for Their Injuries, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published February 27, 2017.