Of all types of motorcycle and bicycle accidents, hit-and-run accidents are perhaps some of the most upsetting. This is not just because of the fact that the injured victim may not receive medical attention in a timely manner, but also because these accidents show just how selfish and uncaring some motorists can be.
In general, motorists have a duty to stop and render aid after they are involved in any kind of accident. This duty even requires drivers to stop after accidents that are not caused by the motorist’s negligence. The purpose for this broad general rule is two-fold. First, this rule ensures that anyone injured in an auto accident receives timely medical attention, regardless of who was at fault for causing the accident. Second, it prevents the need for motorists to make snap decisions about their own liability before deciding if they should stop and assist the others involved in the accident. In addition to ensuring anyone who needs medical treatment receives it, a motorist must also exchange all pertinent information with the others involved in the accident and wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
Hit-and-run accidents are criminal offenses, and police take investigations into hit-and-run accidents seriously. Often, through a police investigation, hit-and-run-drivers are caught in the days or weeks following the accident. When a bicyclist or motorcyclist is a victim of a hit-and-run accident, they may be entitled to monetary compensation once the driver is located, regardless of whether any criminal charges are filed or substantiated. A skilled personal injury attorney should be consulted prior to filing any case arising from a traffic accident.
Police Search for Hit-and-Run Driver
Earlier this month in Ohio, a hit-and-run accident left a bicyclist in serious condition. According to a local news source covering the accident, the collision occurred in the late afternoon hours near a fast-food restaurant. Evidently, both the motorist and the bicyclist were headed in the same direction when the vehicle struck the bicyclist from behind.
After the accident, the motorist left the scene of the accident without stopping to see if the bicyclist needed any medical attention. Police are currently searching for any eyewitnesses to the accident. The bicyclist was taken to the hospital, where he was admitted in a serious but non-life threatening condition.
Are You in Need of an Attorney?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a motorcycle accident or another hit-and-run, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The skilled personal injury attorneys at the Maryland-based law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have decades of combined experience helping their injured clients seek the compensation they deserve. Through zealous advocacy and an unrivaled attention to detail, the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen know what it takes to be successful for their clients. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for our services unless we are able to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
Twelve-Year-Old Girl Was Not Wearing a Helmet When She Was Struck and Killed by Passing Truck, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 5, 2017.
The Hazards Motorcyclists Face Drastically Increase After Dark, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 19, 2017.