Maryland State Police are in the process of investigating a multiple vehicle crash that happened earlier this month following a large party involving a number of motorcycle clubs.
The accident occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Route 18 at Slippery Hill Road in Grasonville.
Police said that one 54 year old man was riding eastbound on Route 18 when a saddle bag on his motorcycle came loose. The man then reportedly stopped in the roadway to fix the malfunction, which caused an issue for several other nearby motorcycle riders. It remains unclear whether additional riders or motorists were involved in the collision.
Three riders, aged 42, 43, and 48, were unable to adjust in time, and crashed. The three men were then transported to the University Of Maryland Medical Center Trauma Center for treatment.
Police reported that the accident remains under investigation, and that they are specifically investigating for additional potential charges, including driving under the influence and negligent driving.
While the facts surrounding this collision remain unclear, from the information presented, it seems that the original motorcyclist may be potentially responsible for the injuries caused to the subsequent riders. This is because he stopped his motorcycle in the middle of the roadway (according to the article), at a time when it would most likely be very dark (2:30 a.m.). While we lack information regarding why the motorcyclist stopped in the roadway, it is generally always best advised to pull over to the shoulder and out of the line of traffic when possible to address any issues you may be having.
In cases such as this one, and in many other car accident cases, the standard for proving fault is typically negligence. A negligence standard requires that the plaintiff (person bringing the lawsuit) demonstrate that the driver who caused the accident 1) failed to drive/act in a way that a reasonably prudent person would; and 2) that this failure resulted in the plaintiff’s damages/injuries.
Common examples of failing to act in accordance with this reasonably prudent person standard are when drivers fail to follow relevant traffic rules. For example, excessive speeding, failure to yield, failure to stop at a red light, etc.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Maryland motorcycle accident, contact the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen Personal Injury Lawyers. Our attorneys have extensive experience with the nuances associated with motorcycle accidents, and we are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries or loss. We have successfully represented many motorcyclists and their passengers who have been injured due to another driver’s negligence. Contact us today in order to schedule your initial complimentary consultation. You can reach us by calling 1-800-654-1949, or through our website.
More Blog Posts:
Speed Possibly to Blame in Death of Motorcyclist on U.S. 1, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published August 7, 2013
Motorcyclist Remains Hospitalized Following Rising Sun Accident, Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog, published July 26, 2013