Maryland motorcyclists generally understand the importance of being safe and careful on the road to avoid getting into an accident. Because motorcyclists have less protection than those driving other vehicles, getting in an Maryland motorcycle accident can be incredibly dangerous, leading to serious injuries or even death.
Accidents can be caused by many different things, but one common cause is drivers in cars or trucks driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and then crashing into a motorcyclist. While intoxicated, drivers may not see the motorcyclist, or may mid-judge how far away they are and how fast they are going, causing sometimes fatal accidents.
For example, take an accident from earlier this month. According to a local news report, the accident occurred around 8:30 one night, with a motorcyclist going west and a Chevy Camero going east on the same road. The Chevy Camero, driven by a 51-year-old woman apparently intoxicated from drinking alcohol before driving, made a left turn into the motorcyclist’s path, causing a crash. Tragically, the motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene by the responding officials. The driver was brought to the hospital to receive medical care for her injuries. The next day, she was arrested on numerous charges, including vehicular homicide, driving under the influence, and careless driving resulting in death.
The criminal charges faced by the driver are brought by the state to prosecute criminal behavior and wrongdoing. If found guilty, the driver may be sentenced to pay a fine, complete community service, or even serve jail time. However, all of these things are focused on punishing the defendant instead of helping the victim’s family recover. To do the latter, Maryland law allows the family of someone killed in a motorcycle accident to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver who caused the accident. This lawsuit is totally separate from any criminal charges that may or may not be filed against the driver, and the purpose is to help the victim’s family recover for pain and suffering, funeral and burial costs, lost wages, and more.
Of course, when a family is grieving, filing a lawsuit may be the last thing on their mind. The process can be complicated or overwhelming, and many may put it off until it’s too late. That’s why potential plaintiffs are encouraged to reach out early to a Maryland motorcycle accident and wrongful death attorney if they’ve suffered a tragic loss such as the one above, to help them through the process and make it seamless as possible.
Have You Lost a Loved One in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
If you are suffering after tragically losing a loved one in a Maryland motorcycle accident, the personal injury attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen Law Firm are here for you. Our attorneys understand how painful it is to suddenly lose a loved one and will work tirelessly on your case to help you recover financially for the damage that has been done. Call us today for more information: 800-654-1949. Or, fill out our online form.