Maryland Bicycle Accident Lawyer

At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. we understand how devastating a bicycle accident can be. Our MD bicycle accident lawyer is here to help you pursue justice and fair compensation when you’ve been injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. Whether it’s navigating complex legal processes, negotiating with insurance companies, or taking your case to trial, we stand by your side every step of the way. Contact us today to get a free case consultation.

Why Bike Accidents Are A Serious Concern

Maryland has both bustling urban areas and rural scenic bike trails, but unfortunately, these spaces can also be dangerous for cyclists. According to recent statistics, hundreds of bicyclists are injured in collisions with motor vehicles annually in our state. These accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, leaving victims and their families overwhelmed with emotional, physical, and financial burdens.

Maryland’s traffic laws are designed to protect everyone on the road, including cyclists, but not all drivers follow them. When a motorist’s negligence causes an accident, you have the legal right to seek compensation for your losses—and that’s where we come in. Contact our Maryland bicycle accident lawyer for skilled and compassionate support after a collision has caused you harm. We’ll help you pursue a fair financial settlement that empowers you to focus on recovery.

Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents

We’ve worked with numerous clients involved in auto accidents. Some of the most common causes of bike accident injuries include:

Distracted Driving: Texting, using a GPS, or other distractions behind the wheel can result in devastating accidents.
Speeding: Drivers traveling at excessive speeds may not have enough time to stop for a cyclist.
Failure To Yield: Motorists failing to yield at intersections or when making turns is a frequent cause of collisions.
Dooring Accidents: A driver or passenger opening their car door into a cyclist’s path can result in serious injuries.
Unsafe Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and poorly designed bike lanes contribute to many accidents.

Each of these scenarios involves different forms of negligence, and we’re here to investigate the circumstances of your accident to hold the responsible parties accountable.

Injuries Commonly Sustained In Bike Accidents

Cyclists have little to no protection during a collision, which often leads to severe injuries, such as:

Head And Brain Injuries: Even with helmets, traumatic brain injuries are common.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to paralysis or long-term mobility issues.
Fractures: Broken bones in the arms, legs, and ribs are frequent injuries.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons can require extensive physical therapy.
Internal Injuries: Damage to organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Maryland’s Bicycle Laws And How They Impact Your Claim

Maryland has specific laws designed to protect cyclists. For example:

Bicycles Are Vehicles Under Maryland Law: Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of motor vehicles.
The Three-Foot Rule: Drivers must maintain at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicycle.
Helmet Laws: In Maryland, cyclists under 16 must wear helmets, but we strongly encourage helmet use for all riders to reduce the risk of head injuries.

Understanding these laws is critical when building your case. If the driver violated any of these regulations, it strengthens your claim and helps us demonstrate their negligence.

How We Build a Strong Bicycle Accident Case

At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. we take a meticulous approach to every case. Here’s how our MD bicycle accident lawyer works to secure favorable outcomes for our clients:

Initial Consultation: We start with a free consultation to understand your case and answer any questions you have.
Evidence Collection: We gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, and photos or videos of the accident scene.
Accident Reconstruction: In complex cases, we collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to demonstrate how the collision occurred.
Negotiating With insurance companies: Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts, but we negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Litigation, If Necessary: While many cases settle out of court, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to achieve justice.

MD Bicycle Accident Infographic

Maryland Bicycle Accident Statistics

According to the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), there were 851 bicycle accidents in Maryland, resulting in 16 fatalities and 692 injuries in 2021. Bike accidents are a serious problem in Maryland and are caused by a variety of factors, including distracted driving, speeding, and failing to yield the right-of-way.

If you’re considering riding a bike, it’s important to be aware of the risks. You can help to reduce your risk of being involved in a bike accident by taking a bike safety course, wearing a helmet, and following the rules of the road.

FAQs

How much is my bicycle accident claim worth?
The value of your claim depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We’ll evaluate your case to determine an appropriate settlement amount.

Can I file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes. While Maryland law encourages helmet use, not wearing a helmet does not automatically bar you from seeking compensation. However, the defense may argue that your injuries were partially your fault, which could reduce your settlement.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Maryland follows contributory negligence laws, which means you cannot recover compensation if you are found even slightly at fault. This makes it crucial to have experienced legal representation to counter any claims of contributory negligence.

How long do I have to file a claim?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Maryland is typically three years from the date of the accident. Acting promptly ensures we can gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case.

Will my case go to trial?
Most bicycle accident cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, our experienced MD bicycle accident lawyer is prepared to take your case to court.

What if my case involves a hit-and-run?
If your case involves a hit-and-run incident, it can be more complicated, but you still have options. In Maryland, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist coverage, assuming you have this coverage in place. Additionally, if the at-fault driver is identified later, you can pursue a claim against them. It’s important to report the hit-and-run to the police as soon as possible and to work with our experienced attorney to navigate these situations.

What if I was hit by a drunk driver?
If you were hit by a drunk driver, you may have a stronger case due to the driver’s negligence. In addition to seeking compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages, you may also be entitled to punitive damages because the driver’s behavior was reckless. It’s important to report the incident to the police, gather evidence, and consult with a lawyer who has experience in both DUI and injury cases. We can help you navigate the legal process and pursue both insurance claims and potential lawsuits. Our bike accident attorney will also help you seek appropriate compensation for the pain and suffering you’ve endured.

Why Choose Us For Your Bicycle Accident Case?

At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., we pride ourselves on delivering personalized legal representation tailored to your unique needs. Here’s what sets our Maryland bike accident lawyer apart:

Dedicated To Personal Injury Law: We’ve spent years advocating for injured clients and have a proven track record of success.
Compassionate Representation: We know how overwhelming this process can be, and we’re here to provide support every step of the way.
No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us unless we win your case.

Our goal is to secure maximum compensation for your injuries while providing you with peace of mind throughout the process.

What To Do After A Bicycle Accident In Maryland

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, taking the right steps can protect your rights and strengthen your claim. Here’s a brief overview of what to do after any automobile accident:

Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, some symptoms may not appear immediately.
Call The Police: A police report provides essential documentation of the accident.
Gather Evidence: If you’re able, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
Exchange Information: Collect contact and insurance information from the driver involved.
Avoid Discussing Fault: Don’t admit fault or make statements to the insurance company before speaking with a lawyer.
Contact Us: The sooner you reach out, the more effectively we can build your case.

MD Bicycle Accident Glossary

At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., we know how life-changing a bicycle accident can be. With over 75 years of combined experience, we’re committed to providing compassionate legal representation and helping clients secure the compensation they deserve. Below, we explain key terms and concepts to help you understand your case better.

The Three-Foot Rule

Maryland law includes a three-foot rule that requires drivers to maintain a minimum of three feet of clearance when passing cyclists on the road. This rule is essential for protecting bicyclists from accidents caused by unsafe driving practices.

For example, when a driver fails to leave enough space while overtaking a cyclist, it increases the risk of sideswipe accidents or forcing the cyclist off the road. Violations of this rule can serve as evidence of negligence in a legal claim, strengthening your case and increasing your likelihood of fair compensation.

Dooring Incidents

A dooring incident occurs when a vehicle occupant opens their door into the path of an approaching cyclist, causing a collision. These accidents are especially dangerous in urban areas where bicycles and parked cars share tight spaces.

For instance, if you’re cycling in a designated bike lane and a driver suddenly opens their door without looking, the resulting impact can cause severe injuries. Maryland law requires drivers and passengers to check for oncoming cyclists before opening their doors, and failure to do so can make them liable for damages.

Contributory Negligence In Maryland

Maryland adheres to a strict contributory negligence standard, meaning that if an injured party is found even slightly at fault for their accident, they may be barred from recovering compensation.

For example, if a cyclist is hit by a speeding driver but is found to have rolled through a stop sign, this partial fault could jeopardize their claim. Given the high stakes of contributory negligence, having a skilled legal advocate to counter such claims is vital to protecting your right to compensation.

Bicycle As A Vehicle Under Maryland Law

Under Maryland law, a bicycle is classified as a vehicle, which grants cyclists the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. This designation means that cyclists must obey traffic laws, such as stopping at signals and yielding when appropriate.

However, it also ensures that cyclists have legal recourse when injured by drivers who disregard their rights. If a motorist fails to treat a cyclist as a legitimate roadway user, such as failing to yield or cutting them off, they can be held accountable for resulting injuries.

Accident Reconstruction

Accident reconstruction is a process used to analyze and recreate the events leading up to a collision. This method is often employed in bicycle accident cases to determine how and why the crash occurred.

For instance, in a case where a cyclist is struck at an intersection, accident reconstruction experts might examine skid marks, vehicle positions, and witness statements to establish whether the driver failed to yield. This detailed analysis can provide critical evidence to support your claim and prove the driver’s fault.

Contact Us For A Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, let us help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., we bring a deep commitment to advocating for injured cyclists and holding negligent parties accountable.

Call us today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation with our MD bicycle accident lawyer. Let’s work together to get you back on the road to recovery.