Founding Partner
A motorcycle crash can leave you shaken, injured, and unsure of what to do next. The moments and days after an accident are critical, not only for your health but also for protecting your legal rights. Knowing the right steps to take can help you obtain the necessary care, preserve critical evidence, and avoid mistakes that could harm your claim.
Prioritize Safety and Medical Care
Your priority after a collision should be safety. Move to a safe location, if possible, and call 911 immediately. Even if you think your injuries are minor, seek medical attention immediately. Motorcycle accidents often cause hidden injuries—such as concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage—that may not be obvious at first. Prompt medical care creates a clear record linking your injuries to the crash, which can be vital later.
Contact Law Enforcement
In Maryland, it’s important to have an official accident report for insurance and legal purposes. The responding officers will document the scene, gather witness statements, and note any apparent violations of the law. Cooperate fully but avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are able, collect as much information as possible:
- Photos of your motorcycle, other vehicles, and the surrounding scene
- Contact and insurance details for all drivers involved
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses
- Visible injuries and any safety gear damage
This evidence can help establish how the collision occurred and who is responsible.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider promptly, but be careful with your statements. Stick to the basic facts and avoid speculation. Insurance adjusters may look for reasons to limit payouts, so it’s wise to speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement or signing any documents.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Collisions
While every accident is unique, certain factors are frequently involved in motorcycle crashes:
- Drivers failing to check blind spots before changing lanes
- Left-turn accidents where a driver misjudges the motorcycle’s speed
- Speeding or aggressive driving by either party
- Hazardous road conditions, such as potholes or debris
- Impaired or distracted driving
Identifying the cause is key to holding the right parties accountable.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
After a motorcycle collision, you may be contacted by multiple insurance adjusters. They may request statements, medical records, or quick settlement agreements. While it can be tempting to accept an early offer, do not speak with an insurer before consulting a personal injury attorney.
When to Call a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
An attorney experienced in motorcycle accident cases can investigate the crash, preserve evidence, work with accident reconstruction experts, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf. Legal help is especially important in Maryland because of the strict contributory negligence standard.
McGowan & Cecil, LLC has helped injured motorcyclists across Maryland secure fair compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain, and other losses. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle collision, contact us today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Collisions in Maryland
Do I have to wear a helmet in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland law requires all motorcyclists and passengers to wear a DOT-approved helmet. Wearing one can also protect your injury claim by showing you took reasonable safety precautions.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Maryland?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If the claim involves a government entity, notice requirements are much shorter.
Can I recover damages if I was partly at fault?
Maryland’s contributory negligence law means you cannot recover damages if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident. This makes proving fault—and disproving any alleged fault on your part—critical.