It should be common knowledge that riding a motorcycle is more dangerous than driving the same distance in a car or other motor vehicle, however the amount that such danger increases can be surprising. Some sources claim that a motorcyclist is 26 times more likely to die in an accident than a driver or a passenger in an automobile. Because of this increase in danger, both motorcyclists and other drivers should be extra vigilant in situations where motorcycles and other vehicles share the road. A recently published local news report discusses a motorcycle crash last month that nearly killed a Harley rider.
According to the local news report, the accident occurred one afternoon last month after a pickup truck attempted to make a left turn into oncoming traffic. As the truck attempted to make the turn, a Harley Davidson motorcycle was being driven through the intersection by a 51-year-old man. The truck collided with the motorcycle in the intersection, ejecting the biker from his vehicle and resulting in critical injuries. The driver of the truck was not injured in the crash.
This horrifying and tragic crash demonstrates the fact that vehicles traveling on Maryland roads must be prepared to yield the right of way to smaller vehicles and pedestrians when sharing the road. If a motor vehicle operator is only looking out for other large vehicles, it places the operators of motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles, as well as pedestrians, at risk. If a driver fails to see a smaller vehicle and is involved in a crash, they could face civil and criminal liability for their actions, as well as administrative actions against their driver’s license.
Victims of car accidents caused by negligent drivers or other occurrences can seek compensation for their losses by pursuing a personal injury claim in civil court against the at-fault party. Drivers who carry the required insurance to operate on Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC roads should be covered by the insurance, allowing victims to collect a substantial amount of damages, even from a driver with little assets or income.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Maryland Motorcycle Accidents?
The statute of limitations in a Maryland motorcycle accident case is three years. However, the sooner you speak with an attorney about your claim the better. Often, the longer you wait to file a case, the harder it is to locate witnesses and evidence that will help you successfully bring a claim.
Have You Been Hurt in a Motorcycle Crash?
If you or someone you know has been hurt in a Maryland motorcycle accident, it can be overwhelming to deal with the parties and insurance companies involved in making a claim. Having one of the qualified Maryland motorcycle accident attorneys from Lebowitz and Mzhen by your side to help with your claim can greatly streamline the process. The qualified Maryland, Virginia, and DC accident lawyers from Lebowitz and Mzhen have successfully represented bikers in serious accident claims and been awarded significant settlements for our clients in the process. If you have questions about your case, call us today at 800-654-1949 and schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for any of our services unless we can help connect you with the compensation you need and deserve.