Maryland bicycle accidents are a major concern across the state. Indeed, cities like Baltimore and Washington, D.C. are constantly taking steps to make their roads more bike-friendly in hopes of reducing the number of serious and fatal Maryland bicycle accidents. There are many causes of bicycle accidents, but most commonly these accidents are caused by distracted drivers.
Earlier this month, one man was killed and another woman seriously injured after they were struck by a pick-up truck while participating in a bike race. According to a local news report covering the tragic accident, the driver of the pick-up truck evidently lost control of the vehicle and ended up crossing into oncoming traffic and driving on the gravel median on the opposite side of the road.
As the driver realized he was outside his lane, he attempted to get back into his lane, overcorrected, and ended up striking two bicyclists. The bicyclists were participating in a race at the time and were among many other bicyclists on the road at the time.
Witnesses told police that the pick-up truck was traveling at speeds around 100 miles per hour in the moments leading up to the accident. Police arrested the driver on charges of vehicular homicide, noting that he should have slowed down upon seeing the bicyclists on the roadway. The driver has since posted bail, and the result of the charges against him is still pending.
Establishing Liability in Maryland Bicycle Accidents
When someone is injured or killed in a Maryland bicycle accident, the driver responsible for the accident may be held liable through a Maryland personal injury or wrongful death case. In order to be successful in either of these lawsuits, the person bringing the case must establish that the defendant driver’s negligence was the cause of the accident victim’s injury. Typically, this requires that the plaintiff prove each of the four elements of a negligence claim: duty, breach, causation, and damages.
The elements of duty and damages are usually met without much difficulty. However, establishing that a driver’s conduct breached a duty of care owed to the accident victim, and then establishing that the defendant’s breach of that duty was the legal cause of the injury or death, can be more difficult. Anyone considering bringing a Maryland bicycle accident lawsuit should consult with a dedicated Maryland personal injury attorney prior to doing so.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Bicycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland bicycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The dedicated team of Maryland personal injury attorneys at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have extensive experience representing victims and their families in a wide range of Maryland personal injury cases, including bicycle accident claims. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with an attorney to discuss your case, call 410-654-3600 today.
More Blog Posts:
Court Discusses Recreational Use Immunity Statute in Recent Bicycle Injury Case, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 18, 2018.
Parental Responsibility for Maryland Motorcycle Accidents, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published February 6, 2018.