Motorcycles can be a mobile, convenient, and fashionable way to switch up your commute or your everyday routine. Unfortunately, motorcycles can also be unsafe and carry risks that other types of passenger vehicles do not possess. In addition to potentially high speeds, motorcycles also do not have the protection of a regular car surrounding the driver that could insulate them from an accident, and can often be difficult to see when road conditions are poor or nearby drivers are not paying attention. In fact, these factors are likely why motorcycle accidents frequently result in devasting injuries, property damage, and in extreme cases, even death.
According to a recent local news report, a Maryland man tragically passed away after his motorcycle was involved in a crash west of Dover. Law enforcement stated that the 25-year-old motorcyclist was traveling east when he approached a car planning to make a left turn at the upcoming intersection. The motorcyclist was subsequently struck by the car and was later transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. The driver of the car was uninjured. The accident remains under investigation by local authorities and accident reconstruction specialists.
Unfortunately, Maryland is no stranger to motorcycle accidents. In Maryland, the five-year average of fatal crashes from 2016 to 2020 has been 73 accidents per year. In addition, an average of 980 people per year are involved in injur-causing motorcycle crashes and 304 individuals were involved in property damage-related motorcycle crashes for the same time period. Overall, in 2020, 1,288 reported motorcycle crashes took place in Maryland, with 1,091 involving injuries.
What Are the Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, drivers in cars or trucks are elevated, which can preclude full visibility of the road, and importantly, of motorcyclists. Many motorcyclists are frequently rear-ended, which can have devastating impacts. Unlike a car that is involved in a fender bender, motorcyclists do not have a protective layer of a potential backseat and trunk insulating them from the accident. In fact, sometimes even a small tap from a vehicle behind a motorcycle can result in significant injuries.
In addition to motorcycle accidents involving other passenger vehicles, motorcyclists also are often involved in single bike accidents. When these accidents occur, however, it is not always user error. Sometimes, accidents take place because drivers cannot control their vehicles because of poor road conditions such as uneven pavement, potholes, or running into obstacles left behind on the road from a truck or other vehicle.
If you or someone you love was recently operating a motorcycle and involved in an accident, you may be considering legal action to receive compensation following your injuries or damage to property. Because of the severity and complexity of these claims, potential plaintiffs are always advised to review their case with an experienced Maryland personal injury lawyer before proceeding for the best chances of success.
Do You Need a Maryland Motorcycle Accident lawyer?
If you or someone you know was recently injured or killed in a motorcycle accident in Maryland, contact the attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen today. Our team of lawyers has years of experience representing clients in all types of personal injury claims and will help you navigate your claim with ease. To schedule a free initial consultation today, contact us at 800-654-1949.