Earlier this month in Gaithersburg, one man was killed when he was struck by a car and knocked off his motorcycle in what ended up being a fatal U-turn accident. According to one local news source, the accident occurred at the intersection of Frederick Road and Christopher Avenue, just before eight o’clock in the evening.
Evidently, the motorcyclist was heading southbound on Frederick Road when the accident occurred. As the motorcyclist approached the intersection of Christopher Avenue, a black Acura began to make a U-turn in front of the motorcyclist, cutting him off. The 35-year-old motorcyclist was taken to a nearby hospital for the treatment of his injuries. However, he tragically passed away a short time after admission. The driver of the Acura and his two passengers were not injured.
The accident remains under investigation by police. Charges against the driver of the Acura may be filed upon the completion of the investigation.
U-Turn and Left-Turn Accidents
One of the more common types of motorcycle accidents involves motorists making U-turn or left-hand turns in front of motorcyclists. U-turn and left-turn accidents are often caused by one of two reasons. First, the motorist may not see the motorcycle approaching. Motorcycles are smaller than cars and trucks, and they have a much slimmer profile. It is easy for a distracted motorist to not see an approaching motorcyclist and make a dangerous turn immediately in front of an approaching rider.
The other main cause for U-turn and left-turn accidents is the motorists’ inability to properly assess the speed at which the motorcyclist is traveling. For whatever reason, motorists have an easier time determining the speed of an approaching car than they do a motorcycle. This often leads a hurried driver to make a split-second decision to try and quickly complete their turn before the motorcyclist arrives at the intersection. However, all too often the motorists’ calculations are wrong, and a fatal accident results.
Have You Been Involved in a Serious Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been involved in a serious or fatal Maryland motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for your injuries or losses. However, proving a case of motorist negligence at trial can be a lengthy and complex affair, often requiring months if not years of planning and preparation. To ensure that you are well represented throughout the entire process, contact a dedicated Maryland personal injury attorney early on, preferably prior to filing suit. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation with an experienced attorney.
More Blog Posts:
Chain-Reaction Crash in Prince Frederick Injures Several, Including Motorcyclist, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published July 3, 2015.
Maryland Man Dies in Bicycle Accident, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published June 19, 2015.