Motorized scooters have become popular over the last decade as an affordable and quick way to get around town, especially when the distances traveled are longer than someone could comfortably ride a bicycle. Along with the increased use of motorized scooters, however, there has been a corresponding increase in the number of Maryland scooter accidents. These scooter accidents often result in serious injuries or death, due to the lack of protection a scooter offers its rider.
Like motorcycles, motorized scooters are powered by gasoline, but the engines in the motorized scooters are much smaller. In addition, due to their boxy design, scooters have a bit more of a bulky feel. As a result, scooters are not able to accelerate as quickly as motorcycles, and drivers have a more difficult time evading upcoming obstacles.
Compounding the difficulties faced by scooter riders is the fact that the general public is not familiar with scooters or their limitations. This creates a situation in which other motorists may drive dangerously around scooters, increasing the chance of a serious or fatal scooter accident. As is the case with any motor vehicle accident, the accident victim’s choice of transportation does not change the duty owed to the victim by other motorists. Anyone injured in a Maryland scooter accident should consult with a dedicated Maryland personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss their case.
Accident Involving Motorized Bicycle Kills One
Earlier this month, an accident between a rented transit van and a motorized bicycle left one man dead. According to a local news report covering the tragic accident, one witness saw the accident and told reporters that the transit van abruptly made a left-hand turn in front of the motorized bicycle, which was traveling straight through the intersection. The operator of the motorized bicycle was left with no time to react, resulting in a collision. Evidently, the scooter crashed into the passenger-side door of the van, causing visible damage.
Paramedics arrived on the scene a few moments after the accident, but the man on the scooter was pronounced dead upon their arrival. The other driver was not injured. Authorities are conducting an investigation into the fatal scooter accident and have yet to determine who was at fault.
Have You Been Involved in a Maryland Motorcycle or Scooter Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland scooter accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Maryland motorcycle accidents and scooter accidents are commonly caused by the other driver’s negligence. However, in many cases, the mere fact that an accident victim was operating a two-wheeled vehicle seems to unfairly shift the blame onto the rider. At Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand Maryland accident law because it is the sole focus of our firm’s practice. Each day, we fight the completely erroneous notion that motorcyclists are inherently negligent based on their choice of vehicle. Call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation with a dedicated Maryland personal injury attorney today. We will stand up for your rights.
More Blog Posts:
Motorcycle Accidents Caused by a Motorist’s Failure to Yield, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published September 20, 2017.
Bicyclist Deaths Continue to Increase in Bicyclist-Motor Vehicle Crashes, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published September 6, 2017.