Motorcycle Accidents In Maryland: How To Reduce Your Risks
For motorcycle enthusiasts, summer is one of the best times of year to ride. Warmer weather heralds motorcycle season, which often features group rides, poker runs, and other events. Unfortunately, this is also the time of year when motorcycle accidents in Maryland are more likely to happen.
With little to protect them in crashes involving motor vehicles, motorcyclists often suffer severe personal injuries. Our Maryland motorcycle accident attorneys share how three bikers were tragically killed in the space of one spring weekend and offers tips to help reduce the risks.
How Three Fatal Motorcycle Accidents In Maryland Happened On A Recent Weekend
If you are a motorcyclist, you may have been waiting eagerly for warmer weather to return to the roads. Unfortunately, three fatal motorcycle accidents in Maryland that occurred on a recent weekend emphasize the potential risks.
A March 2024 Southern Maryland Chronicle report states that the following crashes happened in three separate counties over a 24-hour period:
- In Anne Arundel County, an 18-year-old Virginia resident lost control of his motorcycle and crashed into a median on Interstate 97 North near Crownsville. Police report he died at the scene.
- In Queen Anne’s County, a 21-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a three-car collision on Route 50 West, north of Route 404 in Queenstown. Investigations reveal that his 2005 Yamaha motorcycle collided with an impact attenuator, which is a type of crash cushion found on median strips.
- In Charles County, a 44-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a crash on Old Leonardtown Road and Homeland Drive in Hughesville. He also lost control of his bike after crossing into a median and died from his injuries.
Protect Yourself Against Motorcycle Accidents In Maryland
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration reports that each year, over 70 motorcyclists are killed in traffic accidents across the state. Crashing into medians, as in the above cases, or otherwise losing control of your bike can happen due to a variety of reasons. To keep yourself safe on local roads, follow these tips:
- Do not ride your motorcycle if you have any amount of alcohol in your system;
- Avoiding riding while under the influence of drugs, which includes certain prescribed medications;
- When riding in groups, avoid driving too close to others or overcrowding lanes;
- When riding alongside other drivers, be alert for aggressive driving or other dangerous behavior;
- Avoid distractions that could increase crash risks;
- Make sure your motorcycle is well-maintained to avoid motorcycle accidents caused by bad brakes, steering wheel problems, or other mechanical issues;
- Wear a helmet and other protective gear, which can save your life if a motorcycle accident in Maryland happens despite other precautions.
To Get The Legal Help You Need, Contact Our Maryland Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcycle accidents in Maryland can cause severe, life-threatening personal injuries. If you or someone you love is hurt in a crash, get the experienced, professional legal help you need at Berman, Sobin, Gross LLP. To request a consultation with our Maryland motorcycle accident attorneys, call or contact us online today.
Sources:
southernmarylandchronicle.com/2024/03/19/tragic-24-hours-three-motorcyclists-dead-in-maryland/
mva.maryland.gov/Documents/FY19_Motorcycle_ProgramAreaBrief%20FINAL.pdf
