Although drivers make left turns all the time—whether in a car, a truck, or a motorcycle—many people are not aware of how dangerous left turns can be. In fact, many Maryland motorcycle accidents are the result of someone attempting a left turn and then hitting a motorcycle that had the right-of-way. Just recently, a crash exactly like this was reported, giving a perfect example of what might happen.
According to a local news report covering the crash, a 50-year-old woman was driving an SUV and attempted to turn left. However, she violated the right-of-way of two oncoming motorcycles, resulting in a collision of all three vehicles. The drivers of the motorcycles—a 54-year-old man and a 25-year-old man—both tragically died at the scene.
There are many reasons why a driver in this situation might cause this type of accident while turning left. Perhaps the driver is intoxicated, and thus their judgment is clouded. Or, if it’s dark at night, drivers might find it hard to see motorcycles and assume that if they do not see a car coming then the path is clear. Drivers also could make risky moves like this if they are distracted while driving—by their phone, or by someone in the backseat—or if they have been driving many hours and are feeling fatigued. Whatever the reason, drivers who are at fault in causing accidents such as these can be held liable through a personal injury lawsuit.
Maryland law allows those injured in motorcycle accidents to bring a lawsuit against whoever caused the crash. If someone is killed, such as the case discussed above, then their family or estate may be able to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. To be successful, plaintiffs in these claims must prove four things. Let’s use the case above as an example. First, a plaintiff must prove that the driver owed a duty of care to the motorcyclists. All drivers owe a duty of care to others on the road, and must act reasonably to keep them safe, so this part is typically straightforward. Second, a plaintiff must prove a breach of the duty owed to the accident victim. Here, we do not know why the driver turned left into them, but the plaintiffs could try to argue that she was distracted or otherwise acted unreasonably and breached. Third, they must prove that this breach caused the injury, and then, lastly, that real harm occurred (the death of the motorcyclists) as a result. If each of these elements are established, the family of a deceased accident victim may be able to recover monetary compensation for their loss.
Contact a Maryland Motorcycle Accident Attorney
In the aftermath of a Maryland motorcycle accident, it can be difficult to deal with the resulting physical, mental, and financial harm. If you or your family are dealing with this difficult situation, contact the personal injury attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC today. Our law firm handles many Maryland motorcycle accident claims every year, and we can work with you to hold those responsible for your injuries accountable for their negligence. To learn more, and to schedule a free, no-risk consultation, call us today at 800-654-1949.