Examining the Causes and Consequences of Motorcycle Crashes

1. MOTORCYCLE
ACCIDENTS
IN MARYLAND
EXAMINING THE CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF
MOTORCYCLE CRASHES
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2. Motorcycles in Maryland
Many motorists in our state choose motorcycles as their preferred form of
transportation. Motorcycles often require less fuel, offer more convenient parking
options and afford bikers the opportunity to experience scenic routes in a unique,
exhilarating way. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are also much more likely than
other motorists to be seriously injured in a crash. In the pages that follow, we’ll
look at statistics, risks, common injuries and safety tips in the hopes that we can
improve motorcycle safety in Maryland.
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3. Maryland’s Statistics on Motorcycle
Accidents
From 2012 to 2016, there were
an average of 1,581 motorcycle
crashes in Maryland each year.
On average, 1,153 people were
injured in motorcycle crashes
every year during that five-year
span.
On average, 70 people died in
motorcycle crashes each year
during that time.
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4. Are Motorcycles More Dangerous Than Other
Vehicles?
Yes. Motorcycles have many perks, but safety is not one of
them.
Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely than other motorists to
die when involved in a crash.
They are six times more likely to be injured when in a crash.
Certain types of motorcycles, such as super sport motorcycles,
are associated with even greater risks of injury and death for
users involved in a crash.
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5. These Factors Increase Risks of Injury and Death in a
Motorcycle Crash
Alcohol use Inexperience Distraction Fatigue Improper
gear
Lack of a
helmet
Inadequate
motorcycle
maintenance.
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6. Cultivating Your Biker Skills
If you are new to the biking community, consider the following tips to improve your
safety skills.
 Start with smaller trips and work your way up to bigger roads and longer treks.
 Choose a motorcycle that fits your needs and body size.
 Take motorcycle safety and defensive driving courses.
 Always wear a helmet and require passengers to do the same.
 Connect with more experienced bikers and learn from their experience.
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7. Other Motorists Play a Major Role in Motorcycle
Safety
The safety of bikers is also in the hands
of other motorists, including passenger
car drivers and commercial vehicle
operators. It’s up to all of us to share
the road safely with motorcyclists.
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8. How to Share the Road with
Motorcyclists
Leave plenty of space when following a motorcycle.
When turning at an intersection or stoplight, remember
that motorcycles might appear farther away than they
really are.
Always signal your intentions to turn or shift lanes.
When opening a door into traffic, be sure there are no
oncoming motorcyclists.
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9. Injuries in Motorcycle Crashes Can be
Devastating
Motorcycle accidents result in some
of the most serious injuries
imaginable, including:
Neck and back injuries
Traumatic brain injuries
Road burn and skin damage
Compound bone fractures
Soft tissue damage.
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10. When Your Injuries are Caused by a Negligent
Driver
Negligence includes impairment, distraction and recklessness. When a
negligent driver causes your injuries, you have legal options available to
recover the costs associated with those injuries. Personal injury claims help
injured motorcyclists win payment for medical bills, lost income, pain,
suffering and other damages suffered at the hands of an irresponsible
driver.
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11. To Learn More, Contact Steven H.
Heisler
The Maryland motorcycle accident
attorney Steven H. Heisler has years of
experience helping clients in personal
injury cases. To learn more about your
legal options, contact us today to
schedule a free consultation.
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12. Case Result in Motorcycle Accident Case (1)
Steve represented the estate and family of a 45-year-old man who
was killed when the motorcycle he was riding struck a guardrail and he
was catapulted down an embankment. The estate and family alleged
that a vehicle in the lane to the immediate left of the man swerved
into his lane and caused a collision. The defendant strongly denied any
wrongdoing. The case was resolved at a settlement conference for
$800,000.
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13. Case Result in Motorcycle Accident Case (2)
Steve’s client, a 45-year-old senior program manager, was struck by a
work vehicle that failed to yield the right of way while turning left in
front of the victim in St. Mary’s County, Maryland. Steve’s client was
thrown from his Harley Davidson and suffered multiple injuries,
requiring two surgeries. Suit was filed, and the case settled for
$325,000.
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