Motorcycle accidents are an unfortunate reality in Maryland and the surrounding area. With the many busy highways and winding country roads across the state, it is inevitable that motorcycles – like other vehicles on the road – will be involved in serious accidents. Sadly, these motorcycle accidents often result in the death of those aboard the motorcycle, both drivers and passengers. Too often, these accidents are preventable.
Drivers of cars and trucks are responsible for the majority of motorcycle accidents. Whether it is failing to notice a motorcycle traveling next to them or misjudging the speed at which an oncoming motorcycle is approaching, a lapse in judgment or a momentary distraction can result in a driver causing a fatal motorcycle accident. When this occurs, the surviving loved ones in the wake of the accident are left grieving.
In Maryland, those who have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident may choose to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the parties they believe are responsible for the death of their loved one. These lawsuits must be brought by a proper party – usually a spouse, parent, or child. However, in some cases, courts will allow other relatives through blood or marriage to proceed with a wrongful death lawsuit. Once the court determines that the proper party is bringing the lawsuit, it must be established that the named defendant was responsible for the accident that caused the death of their loved one. A skilled personal injury attorney can assist family members with this task.
Virginia Man Killed in Motorcycle Accident
Earlier this month, a Virginia motorcyclist was killed when he was struck by a pickup truck while crossing an intersection. According to one local news source covering the tragic accident, the collision occurred at the intersection of Leesburg Pike and Route 7, at around 4 p.m. Evidently, the motorcyclist was traveling southbound through the intersection with a green light when a pickup truck approached from the west. The pickup truck ran the red light at the intersection and struck the motorcyclist, throwing him from the bike and into a nearby car that was stopped waiting for traffic to pass.
Police believe that neither speed nor alcohol was involved in the fatal motorcycle accident, but charges are pending against the driver of the pickup truck.
Have You Lost a Loved One in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?
If you have recently lost a loved one in a Maryland motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation through a Maryland wrongful death lawsuit to help you cope with your grief. The skilled personal injury and motorcycle accident attorneys at the Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers have decades of experience representing surviving family members in wrongful death cases, and we know what it takes to be successful on behalf on our clients. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free consultation with an attorney to discuss your case.
More Blog Posts:
Drunk Driving Accidents and the Presumption of Negligence, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published October 6, 2016.
How Self-Driving Cars May Affect Motorcycle Safety, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published October 20, 2016.