While motorcycles share the same rights to safely use our roadways, many drivers do not give them the proper respect and caution they would provide to another vehicle. Motorcyclists involved in an accident are often at a greater risk to suffer serious injuries when compared to vehicular accidents as they are unrestrained and largely unprotected from any type of collision. Unfortunately, the feeling of freedom many motorcyclists enjoy can also contribute to an injury, or in the worst of cases, a fatality.

Negligent drivers are a threat to anyone on the road, but especially motorcyclists. The attorneys of Holzman & Associates have a successful history of representing motorcyclists involved in an accident. Our skilled attorneys will protect the rights of you or a loved one and ensure you receive the compensation you are owed.

Common Causes of Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, but one of the most common is driver negligence. You have likely heard stories of drivers claiming “they did not see” the motorcycle after an accident. Some of the frequent causes of a motorcycle accident are:

• A driver changing lanes or merging without checking
• Aggressive driving or crowding a motorcycle
• Distracted driving—including texting or talking on a mobile device
• A car turns into the path of a motorcycle
• Unsafe road conditions

Maryland-Specific Motorcycle Laws

If you live in the state of Maryland or will pass through as you travel, it is important to familiarize yourself with the state’s specific laws for motorcycle riders. Generally, the same rules and regulations that apply to car and truck drivers apply to motorcyclists. However, there are several additional standards that motorcyclists must follow in the state of Maryland, including:

• Any passenger must be on a designated seat and not interfere with the operator’s ability to safely ride
• You cannot pass a vehicle in the same lane or between lanes
• Two motorcycles cannot ride next to one another in the same lane
• Motorcyclists cannot touch or grab onto another vehicle

In addition to abiding by the above operation standards, there are many safety requirements for motorcyclists. These safety regulations include:

• Both the operator and passenger must wear a helmet at all times
• The use of earplugs or headphones are prohibited
• All lights and signals must be operational
• Two mirrors are required for operation

Understand the Law

It is important to follow the above rules and regulations as the state of Maryland is a contributory negligence state. This means that even if you are just 1% responsible for an accident due to negligence, you cannot receive compensation from the defendant. Some variables are factored into this, and each case is unique, making it even more important to have experienced legal representation.

When we review your case, we thoroughly examine all of the factors that contributed to the accident and determine the clearest path to resolution. In our experience, trial juries often have a bias against motorcyclists, and many see them as reckless or irresponsible which is why we always base our strategy around the facts of the accident. We will build your case by interviewing all parties involved and even surveying the accident scene if applicable. This will allow us to paint a complete picture of the accident and hold the negligent party responsible.

Types of Damages

We understand how difficult it can be to be involved in an accident, especially when riding a motorcycle. Aside from any injuries you are recovering from, there is also often a large financial burden. If negligence is established and the other party is found to be liable, we can pursue several damages including:

• The cost of past and future medical expenses
• Compensation for pain and suffering
• Your lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
• Repairs of your damaged motorcycle or other property
• Reimbursement of your related out-of-pocket expenses

Rely On Our Expertise

The attorneys of Holzman & Associates are experienced in navigating the often complex legal waters of a motorcycle accident. We have a team of specialists able to help us recreate the accident scene, painting a complete picture for our attorneys, and allowing them to shape your case. Our goal is to ensure you and your loved ones are fairly and completely compensated for your pain and suffering and have experience fighting for clients both at the negotiation table and in the courtroom. We combine our legal expertise with experience trying similar cases to build winning strategies for our clients.

If you were in a motorcycle accident, or know someone who was, schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help. To schedule a consultation at our Baltimore office, call us at 410-539-4222 or contact us online.

For more than 50 years, Holzman & Associates, LLC has obtained substantial verdicts and settlements for injury victims throughout Maryland. Ask around about us!

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