Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog
It has been a long winter, and most of us are ready to shed our winter jackets and parkas in favor of shorts and T-shirts. Along with the new clothes, many of us will also opt for new modes of transportation, opting for bikes and motorcycles instead of cars, trucks, and busses. However, as Marylanders from across the state begin to hop on their bikes, the issue of bicycle safety should be in the front of everyone’s minds.
The State of Maryland Department of Transportation has a website dedicated to bicycle safety. It goes over some of the things that all cyclists and motorists should keep in mind when riding or driving on Maryland roads.
For motorists:
- Expect bicycles to be on the road and when you see one, maintain a safe distance;
- When passing a bicyclist, leave a three-foot distance between the car and the cyclist;
- Be extra careful when backing out of driveways;
- When merging with a bicycle, yield as you would to another motorist; and
- Always be sure to stay alert, keep your attention on the road, and use your signals.
For bicyclists:
- Remember to follow the posted (and un-posted) rules of the road;
- Always wear a helmet and ensure that the bicycle is in proper working order;
- Ride defensively and learn to expect the unexpected;
- Keep off the sidewalk unless absolutely necessary;
- Never ride more than two abreast;
- Always remain visible by wearing bright clothing;
- Ride with traffic, not against it; and
- Stop for pedestrians
Of course, despite taking all the precautions in the world, sometimes an accident is unavoidable. Most often, these are cases involving distracted or drunk drivers. In these cases, the innocent victim of a bicycle accident may be entitled to monetary damages to help compensate them for their injuries.
Recovering in a Maryland Bicycle Accident
Victims in motorcycle accident cases are entitled to compensation for their injuries when they can show that their injuries were caused by the other driver. If, however, the other driver is able to show that the bicyclist was at all negligent and therefore partially responsible for the accident, that may prevent the accident victim from recovering at all. This harsh reality is called “contributory negligence,” and it is in full effect in Maryland courts. Therefore, if you have been injured in a bicycle accident, it is very important to ensure that you are well represented throughout the trial process to do everything you can to prevent the other driver from shifting even a small amount of the blame onto you.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Bicycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland bicycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary damages. However, you should expect that the opposing side will attempt to evade any and all liability by shifting blame onto you. Don’t let this happen. Contact one of the skilled advocates at the Maryland personal injury law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers. The dedicated attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen have decades of experience bringing all kinds of personal injury cases against those who are responsible for their clients’ injuries. Call 410-654-3600 today to set up a free initial consultation with an attorney.
More Blog Posts:
Episcopal Bishop Asked to Resign After Involvement in Fatal Bicycle Accident, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published February 26, 2015.
Motorcycle Accident on Inner Loop Injures One, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published January 21, 2014.