Many Maryland residents find motorcycles to be a great way to travel for work and pleasure, especially during rush hour when these two-wheeled vehicles can easily travel through tight spaces. The biggest drawback to riding a motorcycle is that riders are highly vulnerable in any accident. Other motor vehicle drivers often fail to see motorcycles around them on the road, making accidents more likely.
In Cumberland, Maryland, recently, a 47-year-old man and his 39-year-old female passenger were injured when a 2002 Nissan drove into the path of their motorcycle. Both were taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital. The man, whose injuries were described as serious, was later flown to a hospital in another state, where he was listed in fair condition. The condition of the female passengers is not known. Police have not said whether the 31-year-old car driver was cited or charged in the accident.
In this case, the injured parties can consider themselves lucky to have survived. Many motorcycle accidents kill riders and passengers. Still, in general both riders and passengers in motorcycle accidents are likely to face large medical bills that necessitate compensation. The injured parties may be able to seek damages from the driver who caused the crash if failure to exercise due care can be shown. The results of the police investigation should help them determine if that is the case and how much to seek in a personal injury lawsuit. Typically, plaintiffs seek damages for medical expenses and related costs.
Motorcycle accident victims in Maryland should make sure to educate themselves before filing a lawsuit. Doing so will allow them to determine what to seek in damages from any negligent party.