When a crash occurs between a car and a motorcycle, the motorcyclist usually suffers the brunt of the collision. As the Maryland Department of Transportation explains, motorcycles lack the protection of reinforced steel that keeps drivers of other vehicles safe in the event of an accident. Fortunately, motorcyclists can take a few extra steps to reduce their risk of a fatal accident.
Sadly, a recent news article reported that a motorcyclist was killed in an accident. The accident occurred near an intersection as a motorcycle collided with a car. The motorcyclist died from his injuries. The driver of the car was not hurt. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Who Has the Right of Way at an Intersection in Maryland?
Under Maryland law, the traffic laws that govern drivers of other motor vehicles also apply to motorcyclists. At an intersection, the driver who arrives at the intersection first has the right-of-way. If two vehicles arrive at the same time, the driver on the right has the right-of-way. Drivers must also yield right-of-way to other drivers, including motorcyclists, who approach an intersection from the opposite direction. When making a left turn, drivers must yield right-of-way to vehicles in opposite lanes.
Additionally, drivers in Maryland, including motorcyclists, must obey all traffic signs at intersections. At a stop sign, drivers must stop and yield right-of-way to other vehicles. At a yield sign, drivers must approach the intersection without assuming they have the right of way. Instead, they must be alert for other vehicles approaching the intersection and yield the right-of-way to those vehicles. Above all, drivers and motorcyclists should never assume they have the right-of-way and must pay attention to other vehicles approaching an intersection.
How Can Motorcyclists Avoid a Fatal Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, motorcyclists can take several precautions to decrease their risk of a fatal accident. First, wear a helmet. Helmets are one of the most important forms of protection against severe injury in the event of a crash. Additionally, your helmet, gloves, and other riding gear should be bright or highly reflective. This can increase your visibility to other drivers, who will be aware of your presence on the road. To further ensure that other drivers notice you, use your headlights in areas with low visibility. In addition, maintain a safe following distance so that you can brake in the event that a car in front of you suddenly stops. Similarly, avoid rapidly weaving between lanes, and always use a turn signal when changing lanes. These safety tips can help motorcyclists stay safe and share the road with other drivers.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or died in a Maryland motorcycle accident, you may have a claim for monetary compensation. The skilled motorcycle accident attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen are here to help you through the process of bringing a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages. We are dedicated to assisting clients who have suffered injuries from motorcycle and other motor vehicle accidents. The attorneys on our team have extensive experience representing clients in personal injury cases throughout Prince George’s, Charles, Baltimore, and Montgomery County. To schedule a free consultation, call us at 800-654-1949.