While most motorcyclists use the necessary caution and attention when riding, the fact remains that some 40% of all motorcycle accidents are caused by the motorcyclist. The percentage of motorcyclist fault in single-vehicle accidents is even higher, reaching well over 50%. In many of these accidents, the motorcyclist is not the only one on the bike at the time of the accident.
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries, time away from work, and significant pain and suffering. It is important for passengers involved in motorcycle accidents to realize that they may be entitled to monetary compensation to help them cover the costs of their injuries. This is even the case in single-vehicle accidents when there are no other vehicles involved.
In fact, under Maryland law, all motorcyclists must carry a certain amount of insurance to cover themselves as well as their passengers. Even if a motorcyclist does not have insurance or has an insufficient amount of insurance, the chances are that a motorcycle passenger’s own insurance policy will cover their injuries.
Motorcyclist Distracted by Cell Phone Causes Fatal Accident
Earlier this month in Illinois, a motorcyclist was killed and his passenger injured when they were involved in a single-vehicle accident. According to a local news source covering the tragic accident, the motorcyclist’s cell phone rang while he was operating the bike, and he attempted to pass the phone to his passenger. During the exchange, the driver lost control of the motorcycle and crashed.
Both driver and passenger fell off the bike as it crashed. Neither was wearing a helmet. The driver struck his head on the pavement of a nearby bike lane and was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency workers. The passenger sustained minor injuries and is expected to recover. Police told reporters that the motorcyclist was an experienced rider.
Cell Phones Are a Common Cause of Distraction Among All Drivers
The tragic accident discussed above was caused at least in part due to the motorcyclist being distracted by his ringing cell phone. All drivers in Maryland are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving. Despite the prohibition, however, cell phone distraction is a leading cause of death in all motor vehicle accidents, including motorcycle accidents.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation to help you recoup the costs associated with the accident. The skilled injury attorneys at the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have extensive experience handling motorcycle accident cases, and we know what it takes to be successful for our clients. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation to discuss your case with a dedicated personal injury attorney. Calling is free and will not result in any obligation to continue forward with your cases unless it is your desire to do so.
More Blog Posts:
Motorcycle Helmet Cams May Be Valuable Evidence at Trial, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published February 6, 2017.
The Hazards Motorcyclists Face Drastically Increase After Dark, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 19, 2017.