Avoiding Deadly Motorcycle Accidents

For many who love the open road, there’s nothing better than a bright, sunny day on a motorcycle. It’s a way to feel one with nature—exhilarated—alive.  Until, in the worst-case scenario, it results in a fatal collision.  If you have lost a loved one in such an incident, the assistance of an experienced Baltimore motorcycle accident attorney may be valuable in the aftermath.

Data Related to Motorcycle Accidents

The Maryland Department of Transportation reports that over the past five years, Maryland has seen more than its fair share of injuries and fatalities as a result of motorcycle accidents.  On average, there have been roughly 70 fatalities annually, on top of over 1,100 crashes resulting in hospitalizations. Another nearly 350 incidents resulted in just property damage.  Accidents have consistently been most prevalent in Baltimore City. 

Recent Tragedies in Maryland

The numbers only tell a piece of the story.  Behind every statistic is a very personal story about a real person and his or her family, left to try to make sense of the tragedy after a fatal motorcycle accident. Just a few of such incidents in recent headlines include:

• Agha Dilaway Khan was killed when a left-turning SUV crossed into his path and he collided into the vehicle;
• Kelly Lucas Kennedy died after crashing into a left-turning truck that was towing a trailer;
• David Yurchak was fatally injured after colliding with another motorcycle in Baltimore County.

Common Issues Contribute to Accidents

Certainly, every accident is the result of factors unique to the particular circumstances of that incident. Nonetheless, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) points to three key elements that contribute to fatal motorcycle accidents to a significant degree:

• Riding without a helmet;
• Impaired riding;
• Speeding.

Safety Precautions and Habits

Without doubt, there are very specific steps motorcyclists can take to improve the chances of coming home safely after taking to the road.  Fundamental advice includes:

• Always wear a well-fitting helmet and other safety attire such as boots and gloves;
• Increase visibility by riding with headlights on at all times, and by wearing bright colors;
• Avoid riding while overly fatigued;
• Never assume drivers are aware of your presence:  be particularly vigilant when approaching intersections, when in heavy traffic, and when riding beside semi trucks or other large vehicles with significant blind spots;
• Allow plenty of distance—20 feet or more—between yourself and other motorcycles or motor vehicles;
• Never ride while impaired due to drugs or alcohol.

Following a Fatal Accident

If you have suffered the loss of a loved one due to a heartrending motorcycle accident, sympathy and well-wishes are well and good, but they won’t pay the bills.  At the Law Office of Hasson D. Barnes, LLC, our experienced legal team knows that you may be entitled to recover damages related to medical costs, funeral expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. To discuss the possibilities, contact our Baltimore office today to schedule a confidential consultation.

Resource:

baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/baltimore-county/bs-md-halethorpe-motorcycle-crash-20180829-story.html