Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog
A two-vehicle crash in Howard County claimed the life of a 76-year-old motorcyclist when a truck driver failed to yield while making a left turn. The incident occurred at U.S. Highway 87 and Driver Road intersection, where a Harley-Davidson rider traveling northeast collided with a Ram 2500 attempting to turn left. The motorcyclist was transported to a local hospital but later succumbed to injuries.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Initial reports indicate that the truck driver failed to yield the right of way before completing the turn, leading to the deadly collision. No injuries were reported for the individual operating the pickup.
Why Are Left-Turn Accidents So Common?
Motorcycles offer little protection in the event of a collision, making left-turn crashes particularly dangerous. When a vehicle turns left at an intersection, it must yield to oncoming traffic unless a traffic signal indicates otherwise. In this case, the truck entered the motorcycle’s path, leaving the rider with little time to react.
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Intersection crashes remain a leading cause of motorcycle fatalities. Many drivers misjudge the speed of an approaching bike or fail to see one altogether. The lack of visibility, combined with the exposed nature of motorcycles, often results in severe or fatal injuries when a larger vehicle turns into its path.
Understanding Right-of-Way Violations in Texas
Failure to yield the right of way accounts for many collisions on Texas roadways. Under state law, vehicles making a left turn must allow oncoming traffic to clear before proceeding. A driver who turns in front of another vehicle and causes a crash may be held responsible for the resulting harm.
Motorcyclists depend on others to follow traffic laws to ensure safety on the road. When a driver fails to yield, the consequences can be devastating. Left-turn crashes frequently lead to head trauma, broken bones, spinal cord damage, and internal injuries. In the most severe cases, victims do not survive.
The Role of Visibility in Motorcycle Collisions
Limited visibility often contributes to crashes between motorcycles and larger vehicles. A bike’s smaller size makes it harder to detect, especially in high-traffic areas or under poor lighting conditions. Many left-turn accidents occur because drivers claim they did not see the motorcycle approaching.
Failure to recognize a motorcycle on the road does not absolve a driver of responsibility. Checking mirrors, using turn signals, and allowing extra time to scan for approaching traffic can reduce the risk of a collision. Additionally, motorcyclists can enhance visibility by wearing reflective gear, using headlights during daylight hours, and maintaining a safe position within a lane.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
A crash involving a motorcycle and a larger vehicle often results in severe injuries and significant financial strain. In the moments following a collision, taking the proper steps can make a difference in protecting legal rights and holding the responsible driver accountable. Seeking medical attention should always be the priority, even if injuries are not immediately obvious. Internal bleeding, concussions, or spinal injuries may not show symptoms right away, and delaying treatment can worsen the outcome. A prompt medical evaluation not only ensures proper care but also provides documentation that may be crucial later.
Reporting the accident to law enforcement is equally important. A police report creates an official record of the crash, detailing how it occurred and who was involved. Officers may collect witness statements, assess the scene, and determine whether traffic laws were violated. This report often serves as key evidence when proving liability. In addition to the police record, gathering personal evidence can strengthen a claim. Photographs of the damaged vehicles, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries help establish what happened. If there are witnesses, obtaining their contact information can provide additional support in case the details of the crash are disputed.
In the aftermath of an accident, discussing fault with the other driver, witnesses, or an insurance company can be a mistake. Even an innocent remark can be taken out of context and used to shift blame. Sticking to the facts and avoiding statements about responsibility is the safest approach. Before speaking with an insurance adjuster or making recorded statements, consulting an attorney is advisable. Legal professionals understand how insurance companies operate and can guide injured riders through the claims process. They can help secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages, ensuring that the crash’s impact does not create an unnecessary financial burden.