Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Blog
As the warmer months and summer approach, it is not uncommon for the number of people we are sharing the road with to increase as people get on the move to enjoy the sun. This includes an increase in pedestrians walking, and the number of motorcycles, motorbikes, and e-scooters to increase. Here are some statistics: According to a study done by ValuePenguin, 49 percent of deadly motorcycle accidents in the 2016 to 2020 period occurred from June to September, with the highest percentage in July. 49 percent of deadly motorcycle accidents in the 2016 to 2020 period occurred over the weekend, versus 51 percent on weekdays.
According to a news report in early April, a motorcyclist was killed in a Maryland crash involving a tractor-trailer. The crash occurred in Prince George’s County, Maryland on Route 301. The motorcyclist was heading northbound on Route 301, and the tractor-trailer attempted to make a U-turn from the southbound lanes into the northbound lanes on Route 301 when the motorcyclist crashed into the side of the semi-truck. The motorcyclist was pronounced dead on the scene. The Maryland State Police encouraged motorists to be mindful of the increased number of motorcycles on the road with warmer weather and as summer approaches.
How Common Is Speeding the Cause of a Motorcycle Accident?
Speeding is a known factor in fatal motorcycle crashes. In 2020, 5,579 motorcyclists died according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. To ensure safe road sharing, motorcyclists should take some precautions, which include ensuring that you are properly licensed (in Maryland, drivers need a Class M license), checking the motorcycle’s tire pressure and tread depth, hand and foot brakes, headlights and signal indicators, and fluid levels before riding, wearing a properly fitted helmet that meets the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Vehicle, ensuring arms and legs are completely covered while riding, obeying traffic signals and laws, avoiding distracted driving and being under the influence of any alcohol or drugs.
Maryland law also requires riders to use windscreens or other approved eye protection. Additionally, Motorcycle insurance is required in 49 out of 50 states, with Florida being the exception (although motorcyclists in Florida may want to still consider purchasing a policy to protect themselves in the event of an accident). Motorcyclists should ensure that they follow insurance laws to ensure that they protect themselves and their bikes.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a Maryland Truck Accident?
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries after a motorcycle accident in Maryland in Prince George’s, Charles, Baltimore, or Montgomery County, contact the lawyers at Lebowitz & Mzhen LLC today – we are ready to help. Our firm has attorneys with decades of experience handling some of the most complex personal injury cases, and our attorneys are more than ready to use their expertise to help you. Figuring out which steps to take in a lawsuit can be daunting and stressful, but you don’t have to figure this out alone. Contact us with any questions, and see if we can help with your claim. Call us today at 800-654-1949 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.