If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, please don’t wait to consult with our MD motorcycle accident lawyer. With over 75 years of combined litigation experience, our firm offers decades of personal injury law knowledge and insights, and we are ready to be your steadfast advocate. When you choose to partner with us, you can focus on your recovery while our skilled attorneys handle your claim. Contact The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about your legal options for compensation.
Your MD Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents happen every day. Whether these accidents are caused by speeding, defective bike parts, or poor weather conditions, they can result in severe injuries such as road rash, head injuries, biker’s arm, and leg injuries. During a motorcycle accident, it is possible for the motorcyclist to fly over the handlebars and land on the concrete. Skin irritations and infections, otherwise known as road rash, may result in this event.
Traumatic brain injuries and other head injuries can also result from a motorcycle accident. Some head injuries can be life-altering and require several surgeries. Motorcyclists who hit their heads during an accident should seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Biker’s arm is another common motorcycle accident injury. Many motorcyclists put their arms in front of them during accidents to reduce impact. This could lead to nerve damage in the arms.
While leg injuries that result from motorcycle accidents are rarely fatal, they may lead to permanent damage. Even motorcyclists who wear knee pads, motorcycle boots, and long pants could suffer severe leg injuries. It is important to go see your primary care physician to get documentation of your injuries, even if they don’t seem serious to you. This will help later if you go to court and need evidence that you were injured because of the accident.
There are some steps that motorcyclists can take to help lower their risk of motorcycle accident injuries. The number one step is to always wear a DOT-approved helmet, even if you are driving in a state that does not require one. Riders should also wear other recommended safety gear, including jackets, pants, boots, gloves, and goggles if their helmet does not have a face shield.
It is also necessary to always practice safe driving habits, including obeying all traffic laws and speed limits. Always be aware that many times, other vehicle drivers do not see a motorcycle because the bike is in the vehicle’s blind spot. Our lawyer recommends that if you find yourself in a situation where a vehicle is driving too close behind you or otherwise erratically, pull over to a safe place and let the vehicle pass you.
Types Of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle
Every client matters to our MD motorcycle accident lawyer. When you choose us, you’ll receive personal yet practical guidance aimed at your most optimal outcome. We have experience representing injured riders in a wide range of accident cases, including but not limited to the situations outlined below.
Collisions Caused By Driver Inattention
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is driver inattention. Many drivers fail to notice motorcycles when changing lanes, turning at intersections, or pulling out into traffic. These crashes often involve vehicles striking a motorcycle from the side or front, leaving the rider with little time to react. We handle cases involving left-turn collisions, unsafe lane changes, and rear-end impacts where a driver failed to keep a proper lookout.
Speeding And Aggressive Driving Accidents
Speeding and aggressive driving put motorcyclists at heightened risk. Drivers who tailgate, weave through traffic, or rush through intersections reduce the margin of safety for everyone on the road. When a crash occurs under these conditions, the injuries can be severe. We represent riders hurt in accidents involving excessive speed, road rage behavior, and reckless maneuvers that place motorcycles in danger.
Impaired Driving Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle crashes caused by impaired drivers often result in devastating outcomes. Alcohol and drug use slow reaction times and impair judgment, making it harder for drivers to safely share the road with motorcycles. These cases may involve breath or blood testing, police reports, and witness statements. Our Maryland motorcycle accident lawyer always examines how impairment is being established and how it connects to the cause of the crash.
Road Hazards And Poor Road Conditions
Uneven pavement, potholes, loose gravel, and debris can be especially dangerous for motorcyclists. While these conditions may cause minor inconvenience for cars, they can lead to loss of control for a motorcycle. We handle cases involving hazardous road conditions, construction zones, and poorly maintained streets where a rider was injured due to unsafe surfaces or lack of proper warnings.
Motorcycle Defect And Equipment-Related Crashes
Some motorcycle accidents involve mechanical failures or defective parts. Brake issues, tire blowouts, steering problems, or defective safety equipment can all contribute to a crash. These cases may involve manufacturers, distributors, or maintenance providers. We review maintenance records, recall information, and product history to determine whether a defect played a role in the accident.
Multi-Vehicle And Highway Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle crashes involving multiple vehicles or highway traffic often involve disputed accounts of what happened. These cases can include chain-reaction collisions, merging accidents, or crashes during heavy congestion. Establishing fault requires careful review of the sequence of events and how each driver’s actions contributed to the outcome. We represent riders injured in complex traffic scenarios where responsibility is not immediately clear.
Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accidents
Being struck by a driver who leaves the scene adds another layer of stress and uncertainty after a motorcycle accident. These cases often rely on witness statements, surveillance footage, and insurance coverage issues. We assist riders in pursuing available claims even when the at-fault driver is initially unknown.
If you were hurt while riding, speaking with our MD personal injury attorney can help you take informed steps toward protecting your rights and pursuing compensation. Every accident case presents different challenges, and the outcome depends on the details. At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., we take the time to understand how your injuries have affected your daily life and what you need moving forward. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
How Our Experience Makes A Difference
We know how challenging it can be to recover after a motorcycle accident. From dealing with medical bills and lost income to facing insurance companies that often prioritize their profits over your well-being, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s where our auto accident lawyers come in. We’re committed to protecting your rights, handling the legal details, and fighting for the full compensation you deserve. Below, we outline a few of the many ways we can assist you through each step of your case.
Determining Your Settlement Amount
There are several factors that an insurance adjuster uses to determine how much compensation you should receive. They look at what types of damages resulted from the accident, medical bills, documented physical injuries and mental trauma, lost income, and whether you suffered any injuries that resulted in permanent disability. While you would hope that this number reflects an appropriate amount of compensation, this is often not the case. We will closely evaluate your case to determine the full amount of damages you deserve to recovery.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Motorcycle accident victims might not realize it until it is too late, but insurance companies are often not on your side. Insurance companies are mostly private entities that are beholden to shareholders who are expecting a return on their investment. So when it comes to paying for damages they will try to pay as little as possible to protect their bottom line leaving you in a bad place. That is why it is important to speak with our accident attorney as soon as you can after your accident. We will be able to advise you on your case and help you understand your legal options and how they relate to your insurance claim.
Handling The Insurance Claim Process
Following the accident, the responsible party’s insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to the case. A claims adjuster assesses the property damage. Their investigation informs if they should compensate you and if so, how much to pay. If the accident was serious, the insurance company’s lawyers may also advise them on the case. Subsequently, the adjuster will offer you a settlement, which many times doesn’t reflect what you need or deserve. If you haven’t already, this is where you may want to consider hiring a lawyer with our firm to represent you. Scheduling a free consultation with our motorcycle accident lawyers may help you understand whether you should accept the offer or press for more money.
Representing You In Court (If Necessary)
If after consulting with our legal professionals we will determine if your case justifies higher compensation, giving you several options. We can advocate on your behalf, but if those measures fail, you can also go to court. Insurance companies do not like going to court because you have the advantage. To persuade you to settle out of court or to win the case, the insurance company may try to discredit you. They may try to claim that you are inherently reckless since you drive a motorcycle, dig up background information that paints you in a bad light, or claim that your injuries aren’t as severe as they are. We will help you develop legal strategies to strengthen your case in court.
Motorcycle Laws Every Maryland Resident Should Know
With its winding roads and wilderness, Maryland offers a captivating environment for motorcycle enthusiasts. However, the very essence of riding through its byways and highways can become intricately tangled with the unforeseen circumstances of an accident. Our MD motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the nuanced laws and how they may impact your case.
Maryland is unique in that it doesn’t enforce a comparative negligence rule. In other words, if it’s proven that you share even a small degree of the blame that led to your motorcycle accident, you lose the ability to secure compensation. This is where our accident lawyer becomes a pivotal ally. We will meticulously dissect the circumstances, evidence, and potential fault lines to carve out a robust path toward justice, even amidst the stringency of Maryland’s negligence laws.
Maryland mandates that personal injury claims be filed within a specific timeframe from the date of the accident. Victims typically have three years to file a claim. However, there are some nuanced exceptions and specificities within this statutory period that necessitate a comprehensive understanding and timely action to preserve the sanctity and viability of the claim. Our firm can help. Call today to address your questions during a free consultation.
- Compensation Caps
Maryland imposes certain caps on non-economic damages, demanding an astute understanding and strategic negotiation to maximize the compensation within the perimeters of these legal thresholds. The current cap is $950,000. Our Maryland lawyers become instrumental in making certain every entitled avenue of compensation is pursued with vigor and precision.
Maryland’s protective gear laws, which mandate all motorcyclists to wear a helmet, inject another layer of nuance into accident claims. Though compliance or non-compliance with helmet laws does not directly affect the claim, it can become a point of contention, especially in establishing the extent of injuries and their linkage to the accident. The strategic representation by our professionals mitigates the potential ramifications, safeguarding the claimant’s rights and assuring the pursuit of compensation remains unscathed.
Types Of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle
Motorcycle accidents cause some of the most serious injuries we see in personal injury cases. Riders have no structural protection in a crash, and the severe outcomes—broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, severe road rash—reflect that reality. Our MD motorcycle accident lawyer handles a wide range of crash types and works to recover full compensation for injured riders.
Rear-End Collisions
A motorcycle struck from behind has almost no protection against the impact. These crashes can throw a rider off the bike entirely and cause serious injuries even at lower speeds. Our firm represents riders injured in rear-end collisions and pursue claims against inattentive or distracted drivers responsible for the crash.
Lane-Change And Merging Accidents
Drivers who change lanes without properly checking their mirrors or blind spots frequently collide with motorcycles traveling alongside them. These accidents happen on Maryland highways including I-95, I-270, and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, where high speeds make the injuries more severe. Our Maryland motorcycle accident attorney reviews traffic camera footage, witness accounts, and physical evidence to establish fault clearly.
Accidents Caused By Road Hazards
Road conditions that are a minor inconvenience for a car can be genuinely dangerous for a motorcycle. Potholes, uneven pavement, loose gravel, debris in the roadway, and faded lane markings can all cause a rider to lose control. When a government entity or road maintenance contractor is responsible for a hazardous condition that caused your accident, they can potentially be held liable. We investigate the roadway conditions and pursue all responsible parties, not just the most obvious ones.
Accidents Involving Defective Parts
Sometimes a motorcycle accident is caused not by another driver or a road condition, but by a mechanical failure — faulty brakes, a defective tire, or a problem with the bike’s steering or suspension. When a defective component is a contributing factor, the manufacturer or distributor may share responsibility. We handle product liability claims alongside traditional accident claims when the facts call for it.
Dooring Accidents
In more urban parts of Maryland, motorcyclists and cyclists alike are at risk from drivers and passengers who open car doors directly into traffic. A rider struck by an opening door has almost no time to react. These cases may involve both the driver of the parked vehicle and, in some situations, the property where the parking occurred.
Maryland’s contributory negligence rule makes these cases particularly challenging. Under that rule, if you are found even partially at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering anything at all. Insurance companies know this and use it deliberately, often attempting to pin some blame on the rider regardless of the actual facts.
At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., we handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis—so you owe us no fee unless we win. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Maryland, contact our client-recommended firm today to discuss your case and learn how we can help.
MD Motorcycle Accident Infographic
Maryland Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration, there are 1,400 injured each year in motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles have just as much right to the road as other vehicles, yet motorcycle riders are more likely to become involved in accidents with other vehicles and up to 5 times more likely to experience serious injury in an accident. This is oftentimes due to a lack of awareness of the other motorist.
Additionally, according to statistics from the National Safety Council, the number of motorcycle drivers and passengers that were killed in one year (2019 to 2020) increased by more than 10 percent. This number continues to increase each year, with approximately 6,000 motorcyclists killed each year. The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C. often represents the families of these victims.
- One out of three fatal accidents involved driving while drunk or impaired.
- Males are more likely than females to die in motorcycle accidents.
- The average age of people killed in motorcycle accidents was 43 in 2016. More than half of motorcycle accident deaths that year happened to people over the age of 40.
- Though motorcycles make up less than 5% of registered vehicles, they account for almost 15% of traffic-related deaths.
- Even when the accident isn’t fatal, it’s still more likely to cause serious injury than a car accident.
- It should be no surprise that there is a large difference in the rate of injuries between motorcycle accidents and car accidents. It is estimated that for every 100,000 registered motorcycle owners, more than 2,000 owners suffer motorcycle accident injuries, while only 700 out of every 100,000 car owners sustain accident injuries.
- According to motorcycle crash studies, the difference in the amount over a two-year period to treat motorcycle injuries compared to car accident injuries is more than double. This is often due to the increased severity of motorcycle injuries compared to other vehicle rates.
- Those injuries are often catastrophic. Head injuries are the number one cause of death in motorcycle accidents, and it is estimated that motorcycle accidents are one of the leading causes of spinal cord injuries each year.
Motorcycle Accident FAQs
At our firm, we understand how overwhelming a motorcycle accident can be. You’re faced with medical concerns, financial stress, and uncertainty about what steps to take next. That’s why our motorycle injury attorney put together this FAQ guide—to answer some of the most common questions we hear from injured riders and their families. From what to do immediately after an accident to understanding the types of compensation you may be entitled to, we want to provide clear, reliable information that helps you feel informed and supported.
What Should I Do Immediately After An Accident?
It is strongly encouraged that you seek medical treatment if you have been in an accident so that you can protect your legal rights as well as increase the strength of your case. If possible, document the accident scene by taking photographs and collecting contact information from witnesses. Report the incident to the police and your insurance company but be cautious about providing detailed statements without legal advice. You may think legal counsel isn’t necessary, but it’s imperative to consult a motorcycle accident lawyer with our firm as soon as possible. They will guide you through the legal process, help gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and confirm your rights are protected.
Why Are Motorcycle Injuries More Severe Than Car Injuries?
Several factors cause these high numbers. For one thing, because motorcycles are so much smaller than other vehicles, it is harder for other drivers to see them. Add to that a driver who is taking on the cell phone, fiddling with the radio, or engaging in other distracting behavior, and the odds that they will not see the motorcycle driving near them are even greater.
Motorcycles also provide less protection – actually no protection – than passenger vehicles do. There is nothing to minimize the impact of a smashing vehicle. In a passenger car, although there can still be damage to the car, it does provide some buffer or protection to occupants. Even a minor collision can cause a serious injury to a motorcyclist. This is why all motorcycle riders must wear a helmet and protective gear.
What Are The Most Common Injuries Sustained By Motorcycle Accident Victims?
Tragically, the injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents are often much more severe than those sustained in a car accident. Without that protection, there is nothing to prevent a rider from being thrown from the bike upon impact of the crash. Many victims suffer catastrophic injuries, such as brain trauma, amputation, and paralysis. These injuries leave them with much longer recovery times and often permanent disabilities.
Why Do I Need A Strong Legal Counsel?
An experienced accident lawyer has the experience to manage the complications of motorcycle crash cases. We will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and evaluate your claim’s worth, considering factors like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you want to increase your chances of having a fair settlement package, you should contact our legal team about your rights and options. If a settlement cannot be reached, they can represent you in court and fight for your rights, seeking compensation for your injuries, damages, and other losses resulting from the accident.
What Compensation Can I Get?
The compensation you may be entitled to depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life. Generally, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, including past and future treatments, rehabilitation costs, and medication. You may also be able to recover any lost wages that you may have as a result of the accident. Pain and suffering damages can be pursued for physical and emotional distress resulting from the accident. Consulting with our motorcycle accident lawyers is paramount, as we can assess the unique aspects of your case and help determine the appropriate compensation you should seek.
We know every motorcycle accident is different, and the impact it has on your life can be significant. While these answers offer some general guidance, nothing replaces the value of speaking directly with a lawyer who understands your situation. Our team is here to listen, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to get the help you need—reach out to us today for trusted legal support.
Maryland Motorcycle Accident Glossary
At The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., we bring more than seven decades of combined experience to support motorcyclists injured in accidents. Our MD motorcycle accident lawyer offers personalized, results-driven representation to ensure you have the resources to recover and seek justice. Below are important legal terms and concepts related to motorcycle accident cases.
Comparative Fault In Maryland
Maryland operates under a contributory fault system, meaning if a motorcyclist is found to share even a small degree of responsibility for an accident, they may be barred from recovering compensation. This makes Maryland one of the most stringent states in the country for determining fault in personal injury claims.
For example, if a driver fails to yield but the motorcyclist is found to have been speeding, the motorcyclist may be deemed partially responsible, which can jeopardize their claim. Our attorneys are skilled in challenging contributory fault allegations to protect your rights.
Insurance Claim Adjuster
An insurance claim adjuster is a representative of the at-fault party’s insurance company tasked with evaluating the accident. Their goal is to minimize the payout from their company by investigating the accident details and determining what they believe is fair compensation.
For example, an adjuster may argue that the extent of injuries or repairs is exaggerated or attempt to settle quickly before long-term medical needs are evident. Our legal team is experienced in negotiating with adjusters to push for a settlement that fully reflects your losses.
Protective Gear Laws
Maryland requires DOT-approved helmets for all motorcyclists and their passengers, alongside eye protection if the motorcycle does not have a windscreen. While failure to comply with these laws does not directly bar an injury claim, it can become a factor in determining the extent of injuries and how they relate to the accident.
For instance, a driver’s defense team may argue that injuries could have been less severe if proper gear had been worn. Our firm works to emphasize the other party’s fault and make sure that your right to compensation is not diminished by these claims.
Catastrophic Injuries
Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, which are life-altering physical traumas requiring extensive treatment or resulting in permanent disability. Common examples include spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and limb amputations.
For example, a motorcyclist struck by a distracted driver may experience a spinal cord injury requiring months of rehabilitation and adaptive equipment. Our lawyers calculate the lifetime costs of these injuries, including medical care, lost earnings, and quality-of-life impacts, to pursue the maximum compensation possible.
Loss Of Future Earnings
A critical element in determining compensation after a motorcycle accident is loss of future earnings, which refers to the income a victim would have earned had the accident not impacted their ability to work.
For example, if a motorcyclist who worked as a mechanic suffers permanent hand injuries, they may no longer be able to perform their job. Our attorneys partner with vocational specialists to calculate these losses accurately and present them as part of your claim.
The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., MD Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
922 Pennsylvania Ave. SE #100, Washington, DC 20003
Contact Our Firm Today
After a motorcycle accident, the unwavering support and advocacy of our lawyers at The Law Firm of Frederick J. Brynn, P.C., can help you move forward. Our many satisfied clients have appreciated our firmwide dedication to in-depth investigation, thorough case preparation, responsiveness to your goals, and the proven ability to negotiate or litigate positive outcomes. Our demonstrated talents are exceeded only by our commitment to one-on-one personal service during every phase of the legal process. To enlist decades of personal injury and insurance law experience, reach out to our trusted motorcycle accident lawyers today. We look forward to speaking with you about your case and options for seeking justice. Call or message us now to request your free consultation.
Client Review
“Mr Brynn did a good job but i was told my case would stay open because a bill was paid out of my settlement that shouldnt have been paid. But he did such a good job that once again I’m using his services”
Sharon Douglas
