Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Maryland and How to Protect Your Claim

Motorcycle crashes in Maryland can happen in an instant and often cause devastating injuries. Riders face unique risks on the road, from inattentive drivers to poorly maintained highways. When another motorist’s carelessness causes an accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. The attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen can help you understand your rights, preserve vital evidence, and pursue fair recovery for your damages.

• Left-turn collisions at intersections, where a driver turns in front of an oncoming motorcycle.

• Lane changes without signaling, trapping or sideswiping a motorcyclist in the blind spot.

• Speeding and tailgating, which leave little time for drivers to react when a motorcycle slows or stops.

• Distracted or impaired driving, where a driver fails to focus on the road.

• Poor road maintenance, such as potholes or loose gravel, which can throw a motorcycle off balance.

Every crash has its own story. Understanding how and why the collision occurred is the first step toward holding the responsible party accountable.

Proving Fault in a Motorcycle Accident

Maryland uses a contributory negligence rule, which means you cannot recover compensation if you are found even one percent at fault for your own injuries. That makes evidence critical in every motorcycle case. You and your attorney will want to collect:

• Police crash reports that describe the scene.

• Photographs of vehicle damage, skid marks, and roadway hazards.

• Witness statements that confirm what happened.

• Surveillance or dashcam footage, if available.

• Medical records linking your injuries directly to the collision.

The sooner this information is gathered, the stronger your case will be. Insurance companies often try to shift blame to the rider, so having solid evidence can prevent unfair denials and delays.

Understanding the Role of Insurance

Many riders do not realize how complex insurance coverage can be after a crash. The at-fault driver’s liability insurance is typically the first source of recovery, but some drivers carry only the minimum limits allowed by law. If your medical bills or lost wages exceed that amount, your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can step in.

It is important to avoid giving recorded statements to insurers before speaking with an attorney. Adjusters may twist your words or suggest you were speeding or riding carelessly. A lawyer can handle these communications and ensure that your statements cannot be used against you later.

Injuries Commonly Seen in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle riders lack the protection of seatbelts and airbags, so injuries tend to be severe. Common injuries include fractures, head trauma, spinal cord damage, road rash, and internal injuries. Even when protective gear like helmets and jackets are worn, the force of impact can lead to lasting complications and long recoveries.

Medical expenses can mount quickly, especially if long-term therapy or surgery is required. A personal injury claim can help cover:

• Emergency care and hospitalization

• Ongoing treatment and rehabilitation

• Lost income and reduced earning capacity

• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress

• Damage to the motorcycle and other property

Each case requires a detailed evaluation of both economic and non-economic damages.

How a Lawyer Can Help After a Motorcycle Crash

An attorney does more than file paperwork. A skilled lawyer investigates the scene, works with accident reconstruction experts, and negotiates directly with insurers to protect your rights. They can identify every possible source of compensation and prevent common mistakes that could jeopardize your case.

If settlement negotiations fail, your attorney can take the case to court. Having experienced legal representation can make a difference in whether you receive fair compensation or face costly setbacks.

Staying Safe on Maryland Roads

While no rider can eliminate every risk, awareness helps reduce the chance of a crash. Always wear a helmet, follow posted speed limits, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Keep an eye on weather conditions and avoid riding when visibility is poor. Most importantly, stay alert to the behavior of surrounding drivers. Defensive riding saves lives.

Speak With a Maryland Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, do not face the insurance companies alone. The team at Lebowitz & Mzhen has decades of experience representing injured riders across Maryland. We understand the challenges motorcyclists face and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call (800) 654-1949 today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.