Motorcycle accidents have a variety of causes, ranging from drunk or distracted drivers in cars or trucks to speeding motorcyclists and dangerous roadways. All too often, the motorcyclist himself is seen as the at-fault party, especially in single-vehicle motorcycle accidents. However, that is a gross oversimplification, and while there certainly are irresponsible motorcyclists who cause accidents that result in their injuries, most motorcycle accidents require a deeper look to determine what is going on.
One instance in which a single-vehicle motorcycle accident may not be the fault of the motorcyclist is when the accident is caused by poor road conditions. This may mean that a construction crew didn’t adequately clean up the road and left debris that is dangerous to motorcyclists. It could also be that the roadway was not repaired after a particularly harsh winter that caused cracks in the roadway to expand and become dangerous to riders. In any event, the city or county government that is in charge of maintaining the roadway may be held liable in some circumstances when an accident is caused by a failure to maintain the roadway.
These claims differ from those alleging that the road is dangerous due to a flawed design. Those claims are less often successful because the government’s immunity to tort lawsuits attaches as long as the government agency properly researched the design of the road.
Motorcyclist Killed in Single-Vehicle Accident
Earlier this month in Georgia, one man was killed when he was involved in a fatal motorcycle accident. According to one local news report, the accident took place in the early evening. The man, who was not wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders. The medical examiner surveyed the scene and determined that a three-inch depression in the roadway was likely what caused the man to lose control of the bike, ultimately leading to his death.
The report described the depression in the road as a “significant road defect that may have contributed to the crash.” Police also believe that speed may have been a factor in the fatal motorcycle accident. An investigation is ongoing.
Have You Been Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been involved in a serious or fatal motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the injuries or loss you sustained. This may even be the case when there were no other vehicles involved in the accident. It is important to keep in mind, however, that as a general rule governments and municipalities enjoy immunity from lawsuits, and they can only be successfully sued under certain limited circumstances. To increase your chances of recovery, it is best to seek out a dedicated personal injury attorney to assist you with the preparation of your case. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation with one of the skilled personal injury advocates at the Maryland-based law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers.
More Blog Posts:
Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accidents on Maryland Roads, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 14, 2016.
Roadside and Shoulder Accidents in Maryland, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 21, 2016.