Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured while riding your motorcycle in Maryland, you are not alone. Every year, over 1,000 motorcycle riders and passengers are injured in Maryland. Some of these victims do not survive their injuries. It goes without saying that many of these victims suffered injuries through no fault of their own, and their lives are irrevocably changed due to negligent drivers. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, there is a high likelihood you are dealing with serious, costly, and life-altering injuries. You might be struggling to pay your medical bills, and your injuries may prevent you from working. In addition, you might be struggling with emotional distress, PTSD, and other non-economic damages.
Fortunately, you can file a personal injury lawsuit and recover the compensation you need to handle these damages. But how easy is it to sue after a motorcycle accident in Maryland? What do you need to prove?
What are My Rights as a Motorcyclist in Maryland?
As a motorcyclist, you have exactly the same rights as anyone else on the road. A motorist does not get special treatment just because they are in a car or a truck. While it is true that motorcyclists may have higher rates of serious injury, the legal system does not discriminate against people based on which vehicles they choose to operate. Some people are forced to drive motorcycles because of the affordability of these vehicles, meaning they do not really have a choice.
That being said, you should be aware of the various laws associated with motorcycles in Maryland. Just like any other motorist, you are expected to follow the same basic traffic laws. In addition, you are also required to follow additional traffic laws that are unique to motorcyclists:
- Motorcyclists must obtain special “Class M” licenses
- You must wear a helmet as a driver and passenger
- The helmet must have a hard outer shell, shock-absorbing liner, and chinstrap
- You must wear eye protection unless your motorcycle has a windscreen
- All motorcycles must have two brakes
- All motorcycles must have at least one headlight
- All motorcycles must have a red rear light and a red brake light
- All motorcycles must have a white light that illuminates the license plate
- All motorcycles must have a horn
- All motorcycles must have two mirrors
- All motorcycles must be equipped with two footrests for the rider
- All motorcycles must be equipped with two footrests for the passenger
- Lane splitting is illegal unless two motorcycles are sharing a lane
When Can I Sue for a Motorcycle Accident in Maryland?
It is important to follow all of the various motorcycle laws in Maryland because if you violate these regulations, it may affect your ability to sue after an accident. Why? Because Maryland is a contributory negligence state, and this means you could lose the opportunity to sue if you are even 1% responsible for your own crash. Breaking a relatively minor regulation like having only one brake or not having footrests for your passenger can make you partially liable, thereby barring you from receiving compensation.
That being said, it should be relatively easy to sue if you genuinely did nothing wrong. For example, a vehicle might have sped through a red light before hitting you in an intersection. You might have also suffered an injury after being rear-ended. There are many situations in which motorcyclists simply are not to blame for their own injuries.
Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit after the Loss of a Loved One
Unfortunately, many motorcyclists lose their lives in fatal accidents. Motorcyclists have almost no protection from the elements, and the chances of survival are relatively slim in crashes that occur at high speeds. If you have lost a loved one to one of these accidents, you may have the ability to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of your family member.
Where Can I Find a Qualified, Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Maryland?
If you have been searching for an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Maryland, look no further than The Law Office of Ben Evan. We know how devastating motorcycle accidents can be, and we are ready to guide you toward the settlement you need and deserve. Reach out now to get started with an effective action plan and begin fighting for your rights. If you have lost a family member due to a fatal motorcycle accident, we can also help you file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Book a consultation today to discuss your legal options. Remember, internet research can only get you so far – and the statute of limitations may prevent you from suing if you wait too long. Reach out now.