Earlier last week in Tampa Bay, Florida, a 20-year-old motorcyclist was killed when he was cut off by a van making an improper left turn. According to a report by the Tampa Bay Times, the motorcyclist was heading west on a surface street shortly after 7 a.m. As he approached an intersection, the driver of a Mazda who was heading east on the same road and waiting to make a left turn. The driver waited for a van to pass and then continued into the intersection, making the left turn in front of the motorcyclist. The Mazda ended up cutting off the motorcyclist, who hit the side of the car and flew off his bike. Although the rider was wearing a helmet, he was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.
Police are currently conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and if drugs or alcohol was involved.
The Most Common Causes of Maryland Motorcycle Accidents
There is a common misconception that motorcycle accidents are caused by motorcyclists’ aggressive driving. However, the driving patterns of motorcycle riders have less to do with the high number of Maryland Motorcycle accidents than most think. In reality, the biggest cause of motorcycle accidents is failure to see a motorcyclist.
Due to their smaller size motorcycles often end up in blind spots or are just overlooked by drivers. However, motorcyclists are some of the most vulnerable motorists on the road. Therefore, drivers should take extra precautions when motorcyclists are present.
Other common causes of Maryland motorcycle accidents are:
- Driving too fast;
- Running a red light or a stop sign;
- Not paying attention (distracted driving);
- Following too closely;
- Making an illegal turn;
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol; and
- Changing lanes in an unsafe manner.
Recovering for Injuries in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident
In Maryland accident cases, compensatory damages are only available to those accident victims who are not at fault for the accident. Even if the motorcyclist was just the slightest bit at fault, Maryland law may prevent the motorcyclist from recovering from the other driver. It is therefore incredibly important for Maryland accident victims to retain an experienced Maryland motorcycle accident law firm early in the process.
Have You Been Involved in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been involved in a Maryland motorcycle accident, you should speak to an experienced Maryland personal injury attorney immediately. With an attorneys assistance, you may be able to recover for your medical expenses, any future medical bills, as well as for any pain and suffering caused by the accident. Contact the Maryland personal injury firm of Lebowitz and Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers. The skilled attorneys at Lebowitz and Mzhen have the experience and dedication you need to effectively bring your Maryland motorcycle accident. Contact the firm online, or call today at 410-654-3600 to schedule your free initial no-pressure consultation.
More Blog Posts:
SUV and Motorcycle Collide in Texas, Injuring Four, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 20, 2014.
Motorcycle Accident in Florida Results in Another Motorcycle Fatality, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 13, 2014.