When someone gets on the back of a motorcycle, the last thing they are expecting is that they are going to be injured or killed in a Maryland motorcycle accident. Indeed, the vast majority of motorcycle operators are responsible motorists, but not everyone appreciates the risks involved in operating a motorcycle, and some motorcyclists take unacceptable risks.
A passenger who is injured in a Maryland motorcycle accident may have a claim for damages against several parties. If the accident was caused by another driver, that driver and their insurance company may be on the hook for any injuries sustained by the victim.
In single-vehicle motorcycle accidents, passengers may be able to pursue a claim for compensation against the driver of the motorcycle and the driver’s insurance company. In the event that the at-fault party does not have adequate insurance coverage, the passenger may be able to also file a claim with their own insurance company under the underinsured motorist provision.
Motorcycle Passenger Killed in DUI Hit-and-Run Accident
Earlier this month, one woman was killed in a single-vehicle motorcycle accident that later resulted in the driver of the motorcycle being arrested on various felony charges. According to a local news report covering the tragic accident, it occurred in the early morning hours, sometime before 2:30 a.m.
Evidently, the woman was riding as a passenger on a bike that veered off the side of the road and slammed into a cement barrier. This caused the woman to be ejected from the bike. After the collision, the bike continued to crash into a road sign and then a small tree before coming to a complete stop.
The driver of the motorcycle apparently left his passenger on the side of the road and fled the scene before police arrived. The woman was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead a short time later.
Police initially could not locate the driver but were able to obtain identifying information from the motorcycle because the driver fled on foot, leaving the bike behind. When the man was later arrested, police were able to determine that he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. He was arrested and charged with aggravated vehicular homicide and several other related charges. The charges are currently still pending.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the injuries or loss you have endured. At the Maryland personal injury law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers, we represent victims and their families in cases against those responsible for causing their injuries. We handle Maryland motorcycle accidents, car accidents, and truck accidents, as well as other Maryland personal injury matters, including slip-and-fall accidents. To learn more, call 410-654-3600 to schedule your free consultation today. Calling is free, and you will not be billed for our services unless we are able to assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
Bicycle Accident Victim’s Case Dismissed Under Recreational Use Statute, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published May 18, 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.