Tragic Death Illuminates Importance of Civil Claims for Maryland Motorcycle Accident Victims

A tragic multi-vehicle accident occurred in Chesapeake, Virginia last week, resulting in the unfortunate death of a motorcyclist. According to a local news report covering the accident, the responsible driver was in a red pickup truck when they ran a red light around 12:30 pm one afternoon, causing them to hit the motorcyclist and five other vehicles. The motorcyclist, a 56-year-old man, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene, and three other victims were sent to the hospital to be treated for their injuries.

While such accidents and fatalities are always tragic, they, unfortunately, happen far too often, and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to their effects. Because motorcyclists do not have the protection that a car provides between them and other vehicles or the road, they are more likely to be severely injured by negligent or reckless drivers when they run red lights or engage in other dangerous behaviors.

In such incidents, it is always possible that local law enforcement will investigate and file criminal charges. In the tragic incident described above, law enforcement charged the at-fault driver with involuntary manslaughter and possession of cocaine. These charges, while they may help the public feel safer on the roads, do very little to compensate the victims and their families who may be suffering psychologically and financially.

Fortunately, Maryland accident victims have another avenue of recovery under state law. Maryland law gives accident victims the ability to bring a separate civil lawsuit against the responsible party or parties. For those who were injured, they can bring a suit for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, as well as future medical costs. If someone was killed, their family can also seek compensation for burial and funeral expenses. These suits, if successful, can help those suffering in the aftermath of an accident pay their bills and spare them the stress of wondering how to pay for accident-related expenses. However the process is sometimes more complicated than it seems, and accident victims should consider contacting a personal injury lawyer who is knowledgable in this specific area of the law.

Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident?

If you, or someone you love, has recently been involved in a Maryland motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Even if criminal charges have been filed in the case already, you may be able to file a separate, civil lawsuit, to receive compensation for your mental and physical injuries. At the law firm Lebowitz & Mzhen, Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand that this process can be overwhelming and complicated, especially while still in the process of recovery. That is why we have dedicated our practice to ensuring that Maryland personal injury victims receive the compensation they deserve. With decades of experience, our lawyers are knowledgeable in all areas of personal injury law and will work tirelessly on your claim so you don’t have to. To learn more, and schedule a free initial consultation, contact us us today at 800-654-1949, or by filling out our online form.

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