Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog

It is common knowledge that motorcycle riders are at greater risk of injury and or death than car riders, but the actual disparity in risk is rather stunning. 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 recent news article discussed a local fatal motorcycle crash.

According to the local news article about a motorcycle accident in Maryland, the accident occurred late in the evening on Wednesday, August 31, after the motorcyclist lost control and was thrown from the vehicle. The preliminary investigation by law enforcement revealed that the rider was driving a Harley-Davidson motorcycle on the outer loop approaching MD-214 when he lost control. The motorcycle rolled on its side before the rider was thrown from the motorcycle and hit by several vehicles that did not remain at the scene, the police said. The rider was pronounced dead at the scene.

This tragic and horrifying accident is unfortunately all too common in Maryland and shows the need for car drivers and motorcyclists to engage in exceedingly careful when driving at high speeds near or around motorcycles. The 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.

High profile motorcycle accident cases can be a long and arduous process, compounded by delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic. In one instance, a 2019 case that killed seven motorcycle drivers only recently saw resolution—a resolution that likely brought little peace for the families and loved ones of those who died.

According to the prosecution in the case, a truck driver used heroin, fentanyl, and cocaine before beginning work. In addition to a history of drug use and a reckless driving record, the driver reportedly took his eyes off the road and reached for a drink, causing him to swerve into or past the center line of the road and strike the motorcyclists, killing seven members. The motorcyclists were part of a veteran motorcycle club out on a ride. Mixed reports state that the motorcyclists were driving under the influence of alcohol, and that the leader of the club was driving recklessly.

A recent article reports that jurors found the truck driver innocent when evidence contradicted whether or not he actually drove over the center line. In addition, conflicting evidence showed that the motorcycle club members called as witnesses were potentially lying about the sobriety level of the other members as part of an oath to protect and not disparage other members. The prosecution and defense presented very disparate theories of fault in this case, leading to the not guilty verdict.

Motorcycle accidents can be devasting or even deadly for the motorcyclists involved. Some motorcyclists attempt to avoid a collision between their motorcycle and another vehicle by using what is known as the lay-down. This involves a motorcyclist laying down their bike in order to avoid a collision or to stop severe injuries from occurring, although this technique has not been proven to prevent injury.

In a recent news report, officers responded to an accident that killed one motorcyclist in Louisville, Kentucky. According to initial reports from witnesses, the motorcyclist laid his bike down to avoid another vehicle. The motorcyclist was sent to a local hospital where he later died.

Laying down a motorcycle can present various dangers, including injuries to the brain, head and legs, and severe road rash. In addition to the bike continuing to travel at a high speed, motorcyclists who attempt to lay down their bike may also find that they will be unable to control where they end up. Modern motorcycles have better technology, including anti-lock brakes and tires with better traction, all of which may help motorcyclists avoid collisions. Being an alert driver is also a very important part of sharing the roads with other drivers and pedestrians.

As if getting in a car accident was not stressful enough, having the at-fault party leave the scene only adds to the frustration and challenges that come with the aftermath of a major collision. If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, you may still be able to get recourse in the event that local authorities are able to locate the at-fault party. If the at-fault party is located, you will also have several options to consider as you plan your next steps legally.

According to a recent news report, a man was charged after fleeing the scene of a deadly motorcycle accident. Based on initial reports, a Honda was traveling north when it crossed into southbound lanes and crashed into the motorcycle. The motorcyclist was thrown from their bike and pronounced dead on the scene. Following the accident, the driver of the Honda fled from the scene on foot and was located by local authorities shortly after. The police report noted that the driver of the Honda made no attempt to render aid to the motorcyclist. The initial investigation also showed that the Honda driver had an open 12 ounce can of beer in his vehicle’s center console and an empty box of beer in the backseat. The Honda driver has since been charged with vehicular homicide, driver intoxication, and leaving the scene of a fatal accident. The accident remains under investigation.