Motorcycles are a great way to save gas for commuters, are fun to ride during the summer months, and are easy to park. To motorcycling enthusiasts, motorcycles aren’t just a convenient mode of transportation; they’re a passion and way of life.

The freedom that comes with “being one with the road” is what gives motorcycling its allure, and its danger. Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars, making motorcycle accidents potentially more severe than car accidents. Despite the fact that helmets and protective gear decrease injuries, many still occur.

Even a small fender bender can cause traumatic injuries for motorcyclists. While an automobile driver may come away unscathed from a collision, a motorcyclist may sustain severe personal injuries. Common motorcycle injuries include road rash, bone fractures, brain and spinal cord injuries, and disfigurement. Like other automobile accidents, injuries arising from motorcycle accidents may be covered by insurance depending on the facts of the case.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the motorcycle fatality rate is increasing, and it is increasing independent of the number of new motorcycle registrations each year. Automobile driver unawareness is still the primary cause of motorcycle accidents. In 2005, motorcycle-automobile collisions accounted for 56% of motorcycle accident fatalities. Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see. The decreased visibility is especially dangerous for motorcyclists when car drivers are making left-hand turns. Left-hand turn collisions accounted for 42% of all accidents involving a motorcycle and a car.

A recent decision by the Maryland Court of Appeals has made it even more important for motorcyclists to consider aggressive representation for their personal injury. On July 9th, 2013 the court upheld the Maryland statute regarding contributory negligence, stating that a switch to comparative negligence would have to be made by the Maryland legislature. This decision may affect injured motorcyclists’ ability to collect compensation if they are found to have minimally contributed to the accident.

The statistics on motorcycle accident can be alarming. If you have the misfortune of being involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to have a strong personal injury attorney on your side. Remember, always seek medical help first before you call your insurance agent or attorneyFor more information about motorcycle accidents, please contact J. Neil Lanzi at nlanzi@lanzilaw.com or 410-296-0686.