Riding a motorcycle on Maryland roads always presents some level of risk. However, that risk is heightened when traveling in a parking lot. While Maryland parking lot accidents are not normally serious when they involve cars or trucks, when the vehicle involved is a motorcycle or scooter, the chance of the accident resulting in serious injuries or death is greatly increased.
It’s common knowledge that, in general, motorists have a difficult time seeing motorcyclists while on the road, due to their slim profile. In a parking lot setting, however, the risks of not being seen are even greater, due to the number of other cars and trucks that could potentially obscure a motorist’s view. Additionally, motorists too often speed or drive aggressively through parking lots, not realizing the dangers that such conduct creates for those around them.
Scooter Operator Killed in Parking Lot Accident
Earlier this month, a 73-year-old woman was struck by another vehicle while riding an electric scooter in a suburban parking lot. According to a local news source covering the accident, the collision took place in the morning hours.
Evidently, the elderly woman was on her way into a convention center to meet with family members when she was struck by the vehicle. Police responded immediately, taking the woman to the hospital, where she passed away from the injuries she sustained in the accident. A subsequent investigation revealed that the driver was not speeding but that it was raining at the time and that the pavement may have been wet.
The driver remained on the scene following the fatal accident and has been cooperative with police. The investigation is ongoing.
Recovering Damages After a Maryland Parking Lot Accident
When a motorist causes a parking lot accident, they may be held liable for any injuries resulting from the collision. These cases differ from accidents that occur on public roads because there are often no posted traffic signs that motorists must follow in a parking lot. In such cases, drivers are required to follow traditional “yield to the right” principles and other common-sense traffic rules. Additionally, many parking lot accidents are caused by drivers cutting through empty parking spaces.
Another issue that often arises in Maryland parking lot accidents is whether the accident victim was partially at fault. In Maryland, courts apply a strict doctrine that prohibits an accident victim from pursuing a claim for compensation when they are found to be even the slightest bit at fault for the accident that caused their injuries. This makes it imperative that anyone considering bringing a Maryland personal injury case discuss their case with an attorney as soon as possible to prepare for possible defenses.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Parking Lot Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a parking lot accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. The dedicated Maryland personal injury lawyers at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have decades of experience representing victims and their families in Maryland motorcycle accident cases, as well as other personal injury cases. To learn more, call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation today.
More Blog Posts:
Court Rejects Plaintiff’s Product Liability Case Following Serious Personal Watercraft Injury, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published April 19, 2018.
Evidence of a Motorcyclist’s Failure to Wear a Helmet is Not Admissible in a Maryland Personal Injury Lawsuit, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published May 4, 2018.