Maryland Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Fighting for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Prince George's, Charles, Calvert, & Anne Arundel Counties

Motorcyclists face higher risks for accidents and injuries when sharing Maryland's roads with cars and trucks. Many drivers fail to notice motorcycles, which can lead to severe accidents and catastrophic injuries. Even with helmet use, riders remain vulnerable due to the lack of protection motorcycles provide.

Maryland's scenic routes offer beautiful rides, but conditions like uneven pavement, sudden weather changes, and high-traffic areas increase hazards for riders. Additionally, high-traffic corridors, such as the I-95 and I-70, see a steady flow of daily commuters and visitors. Staying alert and scanning for possible dangers can help reduce the risk of a crash on these routes.

At Potter Law, LLC, our experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Maryland stands up for your rights. Motorcyclists often suffer serious injuries or worse after a crash. Whether you are seeking compensation for property damage or working through injuries, we guide you through every step of the legal process.

Contact our team online or by phone today at (301) 850-7000 to get started with our motorcycle accident attorney in Maryland. We’re a boutique firm offering individualized, family-oriented legal services.

How Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Maryland?

Motorcycle crashes are especially dangerous because riders do not have the protection that drivers in passenger vehicles do, such as seat belts, airbags, or the car body itself. Riders are, on average, 29 times more likely than people in cars to die in a crash per mile traveled. Motorcyclists are more likely to be thrown from their bikes and sustain major injuries, such as broken bones, spinal cord or neck injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.

Despite the common belief that motorcyclists are reckless, most motorcycle accidents occur because of negligent drivers. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Speeding: Speeding cars often strike motorcyclists from behind, especially at intersections or while making fast turns. While motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers, they are often overlooked or given less respect.
• Lane changes: Drivers sometimes fail to check blind spots for smaller vehicles like motorcycles and cause a collision.
• Drunk driving: Drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs may overlook motorcyclists on the road. Impaired drivers react more slowly and may not brake or swerve in time to avoid a collision.
• Distracted driving: Distracted drivers, whether texting or not paying attention, are less likely to see motorcycles. Inattention leads to crashes, especially when motorcyclists are in blind spots or at intersections.

If a negligent driver caused your accident and injuries, don’t hesitate to reach out to our firm. Each client can expect to speak directly with an attorney who will prioritize personal attention throughout the case.

Common Types of Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Maryland trauma centers often treat riders with multiple injuries after high-speed crashes on highway or county roads. Lengthy hospital stays and physical therapy can put large financial pressure on families.

Some of the most common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Helmets help, but even so, a strong impact can cause traumatic brain injury. A TBI may lead to long-term cognitive, physical, or emotional effects.
• Spinal cord injuries: Injury to the spine can result in partial or total paralysis, seriously affecting quality of life. Some victims need long-term rehabilitation or mobility equipment after a crash.
• Fractures and broken bones: The force from a motorcycle collision often leads to fractures in arms, legs, or ribs. Treatment may involve surgery and a lengthy recovery process.
• Road rash: Skidding along pavement during a fall can remove skin and cause deep abrasions, sometimes resulting in infection or lasting scars.
• Internal injuries: The trauma of a motorcycle crash can damage internal organs, causing internal bleeding or other life-threatening conditions that may not be obvious right away.
• Facial injuries: Ranging from minor cuts and bruises to injuries requiring surgery, facial wounds can also bring long-term emotional or psychological effects.

Understanding these potential injuries is crucial for motorcyclists to take preventive measures seriously. Protective clothing and gear, such as armored jackets and pants, can provide additional safety layers. Employing advanced safety technology in helmets and other protective gear can further reduce the severity of impacts and injuries. Our firm advises all motorcyclists to continually update their safety equipment and knowledge to stay protected on the road.

Understanding Maryland Motorcycle Laws

Maryland enforces specific laws to protect motorcyclists. Every rider, regardless of age, must wear a helmet. Eye protection is required unless your bike has a windscreen tall enough to provide coverage. Being familiar with these requirements not only keeps you safe but also helps you avoid fines or penalties on the road.

Beyond equipment regulations, Maryland law stipulates that motorcycles must have two operational mirrors, turn signals, and functional lights to maintain visibility. Riders must also adhere to specific lane-splitting prohibitions and cannot ride between lanes of traffic. Potter Law, LLC, is well-versed in these regulations and can provide guidance to ensure that you are well-informed and compliant while pursuing any legal avenues after an accident.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Maryland

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, your actions in the minutes and hours following the crash can affect your health and your ability to pursue compensation. 

Steps to follow include:

1. Safety first: Move to a safe location if possible and check yourself and others for injuries.
2. Call 911: Report the accident and wait for emergency services and law enforcement, even if the crash seems minor.
3. Get the police report: Once it becomes available, request a copy of the official police report, as it can support your insurance claim or legal case.
4. Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional—some injuries can be hidden or delayed.
5. Exchange information: Remain at the scene and exchange names, contact details, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance information with all parties involved.
6. Document the scene: Take clear photos of the vehicles, your motorcycle, skid marks, traffic signs, and the general area surrounding the accident.
7. Talk to witnesses: If there are any bystanders, ask for their contact details in case their statements are needed later.
8. Don’t admit fault: Avoid making any comments that could be interpreted as admitting blame, as this could be used against you later.

In Maryland, early documentation of injuries and treatment supports your case if you seek legal help. When ready, contact a Maryland motorcycle accident attorney who has experience with local regulations and insurance procedures to review your options and next steps.

How Maryland’s Contributory Negligence Rule Can Impact Your Motorcycle Accident Claim

Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule. If an injured motorcyclist is found at all responsible for the accident, the state law bars them from recovering damages in court. Insurance companies may try to shift blame, pointing to helmet use, speed, or lane position in an effort to reduce their payout. Due to this rule, Maryland riders must document every aspect of their crash in detail, from weather conditions to other driver behavior.