If you ride a motorcycle in Silver Spring, Maryland, you understand how thrilling life on two wheels can be. But if you have been in a motorcycle accident, you also understand how vulnerable motorcyclists are. Motorcycles’ small size makes them easy for inattentive motorists to overlook, increasing the risk of collisions. Their lack of structural protection can also make riders susceptible to severe injuries even at relatively slow speeds.
When another driver’s negligence or recklessness results in a motorcycle collision in Silver Spring, the rider may potentially suffer catastrophic and even life-threatening injuries. As a result, many injured motorcyclists incur overwhelming medical expenses, the loss of significant income from missing time at work, and long-lasting psychological trauma.
At Marks & Harrison, our team of experienced Silver Spring motorcycle accident attorneys understands how devastating the aftermath of a collision can be. If another party’s negligence caused your injuries, we can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Our firm has fought for injured individuals since 1911, and we are ready to put our experience and skills to work for you.
Call our offices today or contact us online for a free consultation with a Silver Spring motorcycle accident lawyer.
What Are Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Silver Spring, MD?
Several factors can contribute to motorcycle accidents in Silver Spring:
- Distracted driving – Motorists who text, eat, or engage in other activities while driving may fail to notice motorcyclists or impede their ability to react in time to avoid a collision.
- Failure to yield the right-of-way – Drivers often misjudge a motorcycle’s speed or distance, leading to dangerous turns or merges.
- Speeding – Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of collisions they’re involved in.
- Impaired driving – Alcohol and drug use significantly impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and overall ability to operate a vehicle safely.
- Poor road conditions – Potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces are major risks to motorcyclists.
- Weather – Rain, snow, fog, or glare can reduce visibility and traction. If drivers do not adjust appropriately for weather conditions, they can be liable for resulting accidents.
Riders can help minimize the risks of dangerous situations on Silver Spring roads and highways by understanding these common causes and always being alert. Contact our Silver Spring motorcycle accident lawyer today.
What Injuries Occur Often in Silver Spring Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle riders’ lack of protective enclosures exposes them to severe injuries in accidents, including:
- Head injuries – Even with a helmet, riders may suffer skull fractures, concussions, or traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Traumatic brain injuries – Even with a helmet, the brain can suffer severe damage in a crash.
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) –Injuries to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis and nerve damage.
- Road rash – Friction burns from sliding across the pavement can lead to severe skin and tissue damage and infections.
- Broken bones – Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, pelvis and ribs, are common occurrences in motorcycle crashes.
- Soft tissue injuries – Sprains, strains, and muscle, ligament, and tendon tears are common in motorcycle crashes.
- Internal injuries – The force of impact in a collision can cause damage to vital organs as well as internal bleeding, both of which can be fatal if not addressed immediately.
- Amputation – Severe crashes can result in loss of limbs.
- Psychological trauma – Many riders experience PTSD, anxiety, or depression following an accident.
Many of these motorcycle accident injuries require extensive medical treatment and can have long-lasting effects on a rider’s quality of life. These and other injuries can have long-lasting effects on a motorcycle rider’s health, career, and quality of life. Injured motorcyclists must seek immediate medical attention and legal representation to receive proper care and fair compensation.
How Do I Prove Who Is At Fault for the Motorcycle Accident?
Demonstrating fault is crucial in any motorcycle accident case. However, the task is particularly vital in Maryland, which follows strict contributory negligence rules for car accidents. Under Maryland law, if an individual is even 1 percent at fault for an accident that causes their injuries, they are ineligible to receive compensation. For this reason, working with a skilled Silver Spring motorcycle accident attorney is essential to demonstrate that the other party is entirely at fault.
At Marks & Harrison, our Silver Spring motorcycle accident attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence such as:
- Photographs and video footage of the accident scene
- A police report from the officer who responded to the accident
- Eyewitness statements from anyone who saw the crash occur
- Data from vehicles’ onboard computers
- Analysis from specialists such as medical experts and accident reconstructionists
Our Silver Spring motorcycle accident attorney will work to protect your financial recovery by demonstrating that the other party is entirely at fault.
What Steps Should I Take After an Accident?
If you are involved in a Silver Spring motorcycle accident, you can improve the outlook for your health and protect your compensation claim by taking these crucial steps:
- Take photos of the accident scene, including each of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and your injuries.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses.
- Follow your medical professional’s treatment plan as closely as possible.
- Avoid discussing fault or giving statements to insurance companies.
- Do not post about the accident or your injuries on social media, as insurance companies or opposing parties can use these public statements against you.
- Contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.
Can I Receive Compensation for My Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
If your legal team can demonstrate that the other party is entirely to blame for the motorcycle crash, you are eligible to claim compensation for losses such as:
- Medical expenses, including emergency room treatment, doctor’s appointments, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy
- Lost wages if your injuries force you to miss time at work
- Loss of future earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work
- Pain and suffering on both the physical and psychological level
- Loss of enjoyment of life, if your injuries stop you from engaging in activities you once enjoyed
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Property damage, such as costs to repair or replace your motorcycle
The amount you can claim in each of these categories will depend on the extent of your losses thus far, as well as the losses you are projected to incur in the future. At Marks & Harrison, we can work with medical, economic, and financial experts to calculate the full extent of your current and future losses so we can pursue the financial compensation you deserve.
Does Maryland Have a Time Limit for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Maryland law sets a statute of limitations on motorcycle accident claims. In most cases, you have three years from the crash date to file a lawsuit. However, certain factors may shorten or extend this deadline. Contact our Silver Spring personal injury lawyer today.
It is crucial to act promptly after a collision. You may jeopardize your right to seek compensation if you wait too long to gather important evidence and contact an attorney. When you hire a skilled Silver Spring motorcycle accident lawyer, your lawyer will meet all required deadlines, preserve your rights, and pursue the compensation and justice you deserve.
Contact a Silver Spring Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The aftermath of a motorcycle crash in Silver Spring can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. The compassionate and experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Marks & Harrison want you to know that you do not have to face the process alone. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation. Our firm has fought for injured victims’ rights in Maryland for over 100 years, and we are ready to give you the support and advocacy you need.
