Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog
Bicyclists and motorcycles are the most vulnerable vehicles on the road. Between the lack of protection and the slim profile of bikes and motorcycles, riders who are unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident often suffer serious injuries. While helmets can help reduce the chances of being seriously injured or killed in some cases, a helmet can only do so much to protect the victims of a Maryland bicycle accident.
Most often, when a motorcyclist or bicyclist is killed in a traffic accident, family members are left behind not just with the grief of recently losing someone but also with many questions. Adding to the anxiety is the prospect of paying for potentially astronomical medical expenses and taking care of the final arrangements for the recently departed.
Maryland’s wrongful death law allows for surviving loved ones to seek compensation from an at-fault party responsible for the accident resulting in their loved one’s death. Most immediate family members are able to bring a wrongful death lawsuit, including spouses, parents, and children. More distant family members may also be able to bring a Maryland wrongful death claim if the accident victim has no close family members.
In order to be successful in a Maryland wrongful death lawsuit, the aggrieved party must prove that their loved one’s death was a result of the defendant’s negligent conduct. This can be shown by establishing that the other driver was drowsy, intoxicated, or not paying attention at the time of the accident. Generally speaking, Maryland wrongful death lawsuits must be brought within three years of the death of a loved one. Claims filed after three years run the risk of being dismissed without being heard.
Bicyclist Killed by Run-Away Car
Earlier this month in Indiana, a bicyclist was killed while riding on a city sidewalk. According to a local news report covering the tragic accident, the bicyclist was traveling on the sidewalk when an eastbound vehicle hopped the curb, drove up onto the sidewalk, and struck the bicyclist before crashing into a utility pole.
The driver remained on the scene and cooperated with police, who immediately began an investigation into the fatal accident. At this point, police do not know why the vehicle left the curb, although intoxication does not seem to be the cause.
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 compensation. The dedicated Maryland personal injury attorneys at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers are well-versed in all types of personal injury law. With decades of collective experience, the attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen know what it takes to succeed on behalf of their clients. Call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation with an attorney today. Calling is free, and the initial consultation is risk-free because we won’t bill you for our services unless we are able to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
More Blog Posts:
Determining Fault in Maryland Motorcycle Accidents, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published June 27, 2017.
Establishing Government Liability in Maryland Motorcycle Accidents, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published July 13, 2017.