Tragic and horrifying vehicle accidents are unfortunately all too common in Maryland and show the need for car drivers and motorcyclists to engage in exceedingly careful driving on the roads. The inherently smaller profile of motorcycles creates a greater likelihood of motorcycles occupying blind spots of larger vehicles and the open nature of motorcycle riding creates unique harm for riders involved in any crashes. When operators of larger vehicles only look out for other large vehicles and cars and fail to pay special attention to motorcycles and smaller vehicles, it places the smaller vehicles at great risk. In the event that a driver fails to see another vehicle, resulting in a crash, they could face both civil and criminal legal liability.
Are More Motorcyclists Killed in Accidents than Other Drivers?
It is commonly known that motorcycle riders are at greater risk of injury and or death than car riders, but the actual disparity in risk is higher than one might think. In fact, some sources claim that for every mile traveled, motorcyclists are 35 times more likely than car riders to have a fatal accident. Given the tremendous risk of motorcycle accidents and the potentially fatal results of such crashes, both motorcyclists and drivers of cars should take extreme precautions when it comes to navigating traffic situations involving motorcycles and sharing the road. A local news article discussed a dangerous Maryland motorcycle accident.
According to the local news article, the Maryland motorcycle accident occurred on Thursday, February 29, around 4:45 pm at the intersection of Snouffer School Road and Centerway Road. Reports state that a motorcyclist was struck by another vehicle and went up in flames. According to a Montgomery County Fire and EMS spokesperson, paramedics rushed two adults to the hospital – one with traumatic injuries – following the crash. During the investigation, the roadway was shut down on Snouffer School Road and Centerway Road. The crash continues to be under investigation.