Maryland Motorcycle Accident Lawyers 

Protecting the Rights of Injured Motorists in Bethesda

Accidents are inevitable, but victims must seek fair compensation for wrongful injuries when they occur due to negligence. At Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, we understand the immense stress and financial burdens of an unexpected injury, from lost earnings to expensive hospital bills. If you suffered preventable harm in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s carelessness, our Maryland attorneys can zealously protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. 

Regardless of the circumstances, you can trust our seasoned advocates to have your back. Don’t wait to seek justice after a wrongful injury. With over a century of combined experience and a comprehensive understanding of personal injury law, our motorcycle accident lawyers can fight tirelessly to hold all liable parties accountable for the harm they’ve caused, allowing you to focus on your health and recovery. We handle each case with sensitivity and a commitment to achieving a positive outcome, leveraging our extensive legal expertise in complex motorcycle accident claims. 

Have you been wrongfully injured in a motorcycle accident? Call Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, today at (888) 482-3882 or contact us online to meet with our motorcycle accident attorneys in Maryland. Pay nothing unless we win!

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents and Negligence in Maryland

Accidents are inevitable on the road. For motorcyclists, the stakes of a serious injury are even higher due to the lack of a buffer between themselves and the road, the elements, and other motor vehicles. While motorcycles are a popular means of travel for Maryland residents, they’re also associated with a high rate of catastrophic injury, making it crucial to take immediate action after a motorcycle crash. 

While not every accident occurs due to negligence, it often plays a key role in motorcycle injuries. Common causes of motorcycle accidents resulting from negligence include: 

• Distracted driving: Operating a vehicle while distracted by calls, texts, eating, drinking, and other distractions can lead to serious injuries. 
• Drowsy driving: Driving while fatigued or drowsy can significantly increase the risk of accidents on the road, such as commercial truck operators or FedEx delivery drivers who work long hours or are pushed to meet tight deadlines. 
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol: Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs can increase the risk of motorcycle accidents and put other drivers at risk.
• Excessive speeding: Disobeying posted speed limits can result in severe injuries for other drivers on the road.  
• Reckless driving: Reckless driving, such as road rage, street racing, and other traffic violations, can lead to accidents and injuries for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries, such as: 

• Broken bones and fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) 
• Internal organ damage
• Spinal cord injuries 
• Paralysis 
• Road rash and burns
• Psychological trauma and PTSD

If you were wrongfully injured in a motorcycle accident, look no further than Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, for the experienced representation you deserve. We can carefully evaluate the circumstances of the accident to ensure all liable parties are identified and seek to recover maximum damages on your behalf. 

Who Is Liable in a Motorcycle Accident?

Determining liability in a motorcycle accident can be complex. Keep in mind that not every accident constitutes a personal injury claim. It’s crucial to consult with a skilled attorney who can strengthen your case with relevant evidence and establish valid grounds for a lawsuit, allowing you to seek compensation to cover your medical costs, time off work, and any other losses resulting from the accident.

In a motorcycle accident, the plaintiff bears the burden of proof. This means the injured party is responsible for proving their injuries directly from the defendant’s negligence. You must establish four necessary elements to successfully bring a lawsuit against liable parties in a motorcycle accident. These include: 

1. Duty of Care: You must demonstrate that the offender owed you a duty of care. For example, if a distracted truck driver harmed you, you may argue that they were obligated to respect your safety on the road by exercising reasonable caution and obeying traffic laws. 
2. Breach of Duty: Next, you must show that the defendant breached their duty of care by acting negligently, driving recklessly, or violating traffic regulations. 
3. Damages: Then, you must establish that you suffered compensatory financial or non-financial losses (damages) due to the defendant’s negligence. 
4. Causation: By proving liability, you must prove that the defendant’s negligence was the “proximate cause” of your injuries. 

Establishing Proximate Cause and Meeting the Standard of Proof

Establishing a proximate cause is often the most complicated part of pursuing compensation after a wrongful injury. To meet the standard of proof, plaintiffs must present compelling evidence to show by a preponderance of the evidence (e.g., that it is “more likely than not”) that negligence is the primary cause of their injuries. 

In these cases, securing sound counsel can mean the difference between walking away empty-handed and collecting the fair compensation you deserve. Our award-winning attorneys can help you establish negligence in your case by identifying all liable parties. Some examples of responsible parties in a motorcycle accident include: 

• Other drivers: When other drivers act negligently, such as not yielding the right of way, failing to check their blind spot, or running a red light, they may be liable for resulting injuries in a motorcycle crash. 
• Manufacturing companies: If the motorcycle manufacturer is to blame for the crash, such as a faulty part or design flaw, they may be liable for damages.
• Cities or local governments: In some instances, the city may also be liable for injuries in a motorcycle accident if they fail to maintain safe road conditions or warn drivers of known hazards. 

What Damages Are Recoverable in a Motorcycle Accident?

Depending on the accident, various damages may be recoverable in a motorcycle crash. Generally, motorcycle crash victims can seek compensation for: 

• Economic Damages: These damages cover financial losses easily quantified into monetary amounts, such as lost wages, medical expenses, costs for medication and treatments, rehabilitation therapy, and lost earning capacity. 
• Non-Economic Damages: These damages cover non-financial losses that aren’t easily quantified into monetary amounts, such as emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, scarring and disfigurement, and loss of consortium.
• Punitive Damages: In rare cases, the court may award punitive damages. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are awarded to punish the defendant instead of compensating the victim. These damages are only awarded in cases involving extreme malice or recklessness. 

Understanding the Filing Deadline for Motorcycle Accident Claims in Maryland

If you've suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash in Maryland, it's crucial to understand the time constraints involved in filing a personal injury claim. Generally, you have three years from the accident date to initiate legal action for injuries resulting from another party's negligence.

Not filing within the specified time frame could result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Over time, evidence can deteriorate, and witness statements may become less reliable. To ensure your case is managed effectively and within the required timeframe, it is essential to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.

Contact our motorcycle accident attorneys today to ensure you don’t miss any crucial deadlines and begin the legal process without delay. 

Motorcycle Helmet Laws and Their Impact on Injury Claims

In Maryland, wearing a helmet is required for all motorcyclists, and this law plays a significant role in motorcycle accident claims. Helmets are proven to reduce the severity of head injuries in the event of an accident. However, a helmet or lack thereof can also influence how your case is handled in court.

If you were not wearing a helmet during the accident, the defendant might argue that your injuries were more severe because you failed to comply with helmet laws. Conversely, wearing a helmet could help show that you took reasonable precautions to prevent injuries. Whether or not you are wearing a helmet, having an experienced attorney who understands how helmet laws may affect your case is essential. At Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, we can help you navigate helmet use's legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Are Motorcycle Accidents So Common?

Drivers have always had trouble seeing motorcycles. Motorcycles are smaller and less stable than cars or trucks and may be more susceptible to unsafe road conditions. Today’s oversized vehicles, traffic congestion, decaying roads, and distractions make the roads more dangerous than ever. 

Despite advances in safety equipment and efforts to get other drivers to be more cautious, motorcyclists remain highly vulnerable to severe and fatal injuries. 

Motorcyclists suffer from some of the most severe road injuries. There is a very real possibility that you or your loved one will never be the same. You should not need to worry about medical bills and everything else. 

We know how to prevent the defense from exploiting potential jury biases that can make you a victim again, which is a valuable and essential asset to have to work for you in this fight. And make no mistake: There will almost certainly be a fight, given the enormous costs of modern medical care for serious injuries.

How Weather & Road Conditions Impact Motorcycle Accidents in Maryland

Maryland is known for its diverse weather conditions, which can significantly affect motorcycle safety. From hot, humid summers to icy winters, each season presents unique challenges for motorcyclists. Rain and fog can reduce visibility and road grip, increasing the risk of skidding and accidents. Snow and ice pose severe hazards, making roads slippery and unpredictable for two-wheeled vehicles not equipped for such conditions.

In addition to weather-related issues, the condition of Maryland's roads plays a crucial role. Potholes, uneven pavement, and unexpected debris can be fatal obstacles for riders. Motorcyclists need to remain vigilant and adjust their riding style according to the current weather and road conditions to minimize risks. Similarly, our legal team accounts for these environmental factors when evaluating the circumstances of an accident, ensuring that all contributing elements are factored into the claim for an accurate assessment of liability and compensation.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Maryland

Experiencing a motorcycle accident is an overwhelming situation, often accompanied by confusion and distress. The immediate actions taken following an accident can considerably impact the eventual outcome of a claim. First and foremost, ensuring safety is critical. Check for injuries and move to a safe area away from traffic. Contact emergency services to report the accident and request medical assistance.

Medical evaluation is crucial, even if injuries appear minor, as some symptoms might be delayed. Documenting the accident scene is invaluable; gather photographic evidence of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information, as their statements may support your claim. Promptly report the accident to your insurance company, accurately detailing the incident without speculating or admitting fault. Consulting an attorney early ensures that your rights are protected and necessary evidence is preserved for your claim.  As experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in Maryland, we guide you through each step of this process.

Contact Our Maryland Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today

From navigating the physical and emotional tolls of recovery to retaining employment and staying financially afloat, we understand how intimidating and frightening it can be to sustain an unexpected injury. Our firm is committed to safeguarding your rights and advocating for the maximum compensation you deserve. 

Our top-rated litigators have extensive experience representing wrongfully injured clients in Bethesda and beyond. From car accidents to catastrophic injuries to medical malpractice claims, when you choose to work with our compassionate lawyers, you can count on receiving personalized representation and sound counsel from start to finish. With a proven track record of multimillion-dollar settlements, you can trust our firm to implement effective legal strategies tailored to your needs while making your personal goals our own. 

Contact Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC today and schedule a FREE consultation with our motorcycle accident lawyers in Maryland!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Motorcycle Riders More Vulnerable Than Other Motorists?

Motorcycle riders are inherently more vulnerable during accidents compared to motorists in enclosed vehicles. The lack of structural protection exposes riders to direct impact with vehicles, pavement, and other hazards. Moreover, motorcycles are less stable than four-wheeled vehicles, particularly in adverse weather or during abrupt maneuvers. The lower visibility of motorcycles to other drivers also contributes to increased vulnerability. These factors highlight the importance of wearing protective gear such as helmets and riding jackets, which can significantly reduce the severity of injuries sustained in an accident. Understanding these vulnerabilities underscores the need for exceptional caution and emphasizes our firm's role in advocating for comprehensive safety measures and fair legal representation for injured motorcyclists.

How Does Comparative Negligence Affect My Motorcycle Claim?

Maryland follows a contributory negligence rule, which can drastically impact a motorcycle accident claim. Under this rule, if a rider is found to be slightly at fault for the accident, it could bar them from recovering any compensation. This is stricter than the comparative negligence standard used in other states, where fault can be distributed and partial compensation awarded. The contributory negligence rule underscores the importance of thorough legal and factual analysis of each claim to avoid unfair blame for the injured party. It is crucial to work with attorneys capable of meticulously demonstrating the absence of rider negligence to secure rightful compensation.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

When filing a motorcycle accident claim, several common mistakes can hinder the process or lead to unfavorable outcomes. Failing to seek immediate medical attention is a significant error, as it can impact the documentation of injuries and their severity. Similarly, neglecting to gather evidence or witness statements at the scene can weaken the claim. Another critical mistake is providing recorded statements to insurance companies without legal consultation, as these can be used to undermine the claim. Furthermore, delaying the claim filing can jeopardize its viability due to the statute of limitations. Working with proficient attorneys ensures these pitfalls are avoided and that the claim process proceeds smoothly, safeguarding your rights to compensation.