Maryland motorcycle accidents take dozens of lives each year.
Motorcycling creates a sense of freedom like that if nothing else. When you're out on a motorcycle, you feel the sun on your body, the wind whipping against you and the knowledge that nothing stands between you and nature. Maryland's long riding season means tens of thousands of bikers get a chance to enjoy riding across the state's roads each year.
Motorcycle riding, fun, and liberating as it may be, isn't without its less desirable aspects, though. Sunburn, windburn, smog, inconsiderate drivers, sudden downpours; these are all downsides to biking. Other negatives are much more serious, in particular, the lack of protection in the event of an accident. Crashes can result in severe injuries, including:
- Broken or shattered bones
- Internal organ damage
- TBI/closed head injuries/skull fractures
- "Road rash"
- Scrapes, lacerations, and friction burns
- Spinal cord damage (which can result in full or partial paralysis)
Motorcycle accidents result in much more serious injuries if riders don't wear proper protective gear. Maryland makes helmets and eye protection mandatory for all riders (see Maryland Transportation Code Section 21-1306 for more information). Since passing the law back in the early 1990s, the state has seen fatal accident rates fall, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration still reports that 71 motorcyclists died in Maryland in 2016; this was the most recent year for which data is available.
If A Crash Happens, Call An Attorney
The relatively small size, lower profile and easy maneuverability of motorcycles mean that they can easily hide in the blind spot of a larger vehicle. Drivers who are distracted by technology, impaired by alcohol or simply not paying close enough attention can easily:
- Swerve into or sideswipe a motorcyclist
- Turn in front of a biker (particularly common with left-hand turns, but also seen at intersections when a motorcycle is trying to turn right)
- Rear-end a stopped or slowing motorcycle at a light or in heavy traffic
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injury or even death. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash caused by another person or entity (such as a business or municipality), you may have legal claims for compensation. Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney today to learn more, especially before you sign any settlement offer from the insurance company. Doing so will help prevent you from jeopardizing your legal rights.