Motorcycles are among the most exciting ways to travel, but unfortunately, the open road is, at times, far more hazardous for motorcyclists than many people realize. Motorcycles give us a sense of freedom, independence, and ability, and frankly, they are simply enjoyable to ride. Still, the truth is that motorcyclists are often exposed to dangers that are out of their control, and even if you follow every rule and safety recommendation, serious accidents can occur in a split second. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another party’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to contact the Prince George’s County personal injury lawyers at Miller Berman today.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws in Maryland
Maryland requires most riders to wear helmets. According to state law, anyone under 21 must wear a helmet. Riders 21 or older may ride without one, but only if they have been licensed to operate a motorcycle for at least two years or have completed a motorcycle safety course.
Even with this exception, wearing a helmet remains critically important, as a helmet significantly reduces the risk of severe head and brain injuries during a crash. Studies show that helmeted riders are far more likely to survive serious accidents than those without helmets.
Common Motorcycle Hazards
Motorcycle riding can be thrilling, but it’s also risky. Riders must constantly remain alert to dangers that many other drivers may not consider. Some of the most common hazards that lead to motorcycle accidents are as follows:
- Other drivers failing to see motorcycles, especially in blind spots or at intersections
- Unsafe lane changes by cars and trucks that cut off motorcyclists without warning
- Poor road conditions, like potholes, uneven pavement, cracks, or loose gravel that can cause a rider to lose control
- Motorists driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Wet or slippery roads after rain, sleet, or snow that reduce traction for motorcycles
- Distracted driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, or daydreaming, by motorists who fail to notice a nearby motorcycle
- Speeding vehicles that cannot react in time when a motorcyclist slows or changes lanes
- Sudden braking by other vehicles, sometimes without the use of signals, which forces motorcyclists into dangerous maneuvers
- Debris in the road, which can be especially hazardous to lighter, two-wheeled vehicles
- Drivers or passengers failing to look before opening their car doors as motorcyclists are passing by
What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
If you are involved in a motorcycle crash, acting quickly and correctly can make a big difference. If you can, follow these steps:
- Check yourself and any passengers for serious injuries. If anyone is badly hurt, call 911 immediately.
- If you can safely move away from traffic, do so, and turn off the motorcycle’s engine to reduce the risk of fire.
- Call the police or request emergency services. A police report often becomes key evidence in a personal injury claim.
- Document the scene with your phone. Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, signage, and any visible injuries.
- Get contact information from other drivers, as well as contact details of any witnesses. Names, phone numbers, and addresses can matter later.
- Do not discuss fault on the scene, and avoid apologizing or admitting fault even if you think you made a mistake. Insurance companies and investigators look for such statements.
- Keep track of all medical records, bills, and receipts.
- Hire a team of Prince George’s County motorcycle accident lawyers who can help you fight for the full and fair compensation to which you are entitled.
Compensation: What You Can Potentially Recover
As long as you and your attorney can prove that the crash occurred because of someone else’s negligence, you should be entitled to financial compensation. This compensation is designed to help you deal with the following:
- Medical expenses, such as emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitative care, physical therapy, follow-up appointments, and future medical needs
- Lost wages if you missed work due to injuries, as well as loss of earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous work
- Pain and suffering, which may include physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life
- Property damage, including repairs or replacement of your motorcycle
- Compensation for long-term or permanent disabilities if the accident causes lasting impairment
- Loss of enjoyment of life if you can no longer engage in hobbies or daily activities you once enjoyed
Statute of Limitations & Time Limits for Filing in Maryland
In Maryland, personal injury claims must generally be filed within three years of the date of the accident. If you fail to file within that period, you may lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. For certain types of claims, or if the defendant is a government entity or agency, shorter deadlines may apply. Simply put, you should reach out to an attorney about your case as soon after your accident as you can.
Contact Our Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you have any additional questions about your case, or if you believe you have a valid personal injury claim, please don’t hesitate to contact our Prince George’s County motorcycle accident lawyers for a free consultation today.
