Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog
At a “T” intersection without a stoplight, drivers run the risk of a left turn accident. This type of car or motorcycle accident often occurs when one driver either stops or travels straight ahead at an intersection and is then struck by another driver attempting to turn left. When turning onto a local road from a highway, a driver may collide with another vehicle if they fail to stop or notice oncoming traffic. If drivers making a turn at an intersection do not yield to oncoming traffic, they may find themselves in a left turn accident, which could result in serious injury or death.
Recently, a motorcycle rider in Missouri died after suffering a left turn accident. According to a news report, he was riding east when a driver turned onto his street, and the two collided. The motorcycle rider hit the side of the driver’s van. He was taken to the hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
How Does Maryland Law Treat the Right of Way at Intersections?
When Maryland drivers make left turns onto a private road, they must yield the right-of-way to any other vehicles approaching from the opposition direction at the same intersection. This rule also applies if another vehicle is near enough to the intersection that not yielding presents immediate danger of an accident. On a highway, at a “T” intersection without a traffic control device such as a stop sign, a driver on one highway must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle traveling from the other highway.
If an intersecting highway has a stop sign, Maryland drivers must stop and yield right-of-way to other vehicles approaching on the highway. If an intersection has a yield sign, the driver must approach with caution, yield right-of-way to other approaching vehicles, and stop if necessary to yield the right of way. Furthermore, if a driver is about to enter or cross a highway from a local road, the driver must stop and yield the right-of-way. To avoid a high-speed collision, this rule applies even in the absence of a stop or yield sign.
What Are the Legal Consequences of a Turn Accident?
Any violation of Maryland vehicle law constitutes a misdemeanor. Maryland prohibits accidents resulting in serious injury or death that occur when a driver violates Maryland law on the right-of-way. Consequently, anyone whose violation of the law precipitates an accident must pay a maximum fine of $1000. In addition, a driver may have their license suspended for a maximum period of 180 days. Besides the criminal consequences of violating Maryland vehicle law, a driver may be liable for civil damages to compensate for the injured victim’s suffering.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Turn Accident?
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries after a left turn accident, contact Lebowitz & Mzhen today. Our attorneys have years of experience representing Maryland personal injury victims in a wide range of Maryland auto accidents, including motorcycle crashes. We possess the skills, resources, and dedication to fight for the compensation you reserve. Our personal injury attorneys have recovered significant amounts in damages for our clients. To schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced accident attorney, contact our office at 800-654-1949.