Maryland motorcycle accidents could lead to civil litigation

Areas on the East Coast have endured what many describe as a harsher than normal winter; fortunately, the warmer weather has brought a reprieve from the cold temperatures, snow and ice. As the area starts to thaw, more people begin to enjoy outdoor activities that the cold weather may have prevented over the winter. As a result, more motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians may start to take advantage of Maryland roadways, meaning other drivers must remain particularly vigilant. Motorcycle accidents often lead to serious injury or death, and a man was recently killed in such an accident in Prince George’s County.

The accident happened in early April. A 32-year-old man was traveling north on a Maryland Highway. Police reports indicate that a car attempted to make a left turn across the path of the motorcycle. Unfortunately, the motorcycle struck the car.

The motorcyclist died at the scene of the accident. Additionally, two passengers in the car were taken to an area hospital for treatment of what reports indicate were minor injuries. Police allege that the accident was caused because the driver of the car did not yield the right-of-way to the motorcyclist.

As with others who have lost loved ones in motorcycle accidents, the family of the man is likely in shock as a result of the news of the man’s unexpected death. The next few days and weeks will be filled with a sobering reality, including acknowledging the devastating financial impact an unexpected death can have. For example, the family must cope with funeral expenses, all while experiencing the loss of the man’s income. In order to seek some relief from the financial burdens stemming from the fatal accident, the man’s surviving family has the option of pursuing a claim for damages in a Maryland civil court. If they can prove that the accident was caused by the driver’s negligence, they could receive a financial award to cover expenses related to the accident as allowed by state law.

Source: wusa9.com, “Man killed in motorcycle vs. car crash identified”, , April 7, 2014