Baltimore Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Why Choose a Baltimore Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Bob Katz Law?

• At Bob Katz Law, we know all about motorcycle accidents in Baltimore, and we’ve helped many people just like you. We’ll fight for your rights and make sure you get the money you deserve.
• We care about our clients. We’ll listen to your story and answer all your questions.
• We’ll explain everything in simple terms, so you always know what’s going on with your case.
• We have successfully represented injured clients for more than 40 years.
• We have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation for our clients and we fight every day for clients to help make sure they are fairly and fully compensated for their losses.
• We have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and have more than 285 five-star reviews amassed from prior satisfied clients.

Choosing Bob Katz Law means you’ll have a strong team on your side. We’ll deal with the insurance companies and handle all the paperwork. This way, you can focus on getting better.

You May Be Entitled to Compensation if You Are Injured

If you or someone you love enjoys riding a motorcycle, you know they have the same right as any other law-abiding citizen to drive on the roads in Maryland. Motorcyclists are entitled to the same protection of the laws as any other vehicle operator on the roadway.

Nevertheless, some factors make motorcycle collisions more difficult than a regular car accident case, and in many cases, it would be prudent for an injured motorcyclist to hire an attorney.

How much is my motorcycle accident claim worth?

It’s hard to say exactly how much your motorcycle accident claim is worth without knowing all the details. Every case is different. 

But there are some things that can affect how much money you might get:

• How badly you’re hurt. If your injuries are serious, you might get more money.
• Medical bills. The more medical care you need, the more your claim might be worth.
• Lost wages. If you had to miss work because of the accident, you could get money for that.
• Pain and suffering. This is money for how much the accident has affected your life.
• Who was at fault? If the other driver was clearly to blame, you might get more money.
• Insurance limits. The amount of insurance the other driver has can affect your claim.

To get a better idea of what your claim might be worth, talk to a lawyer. They can look at all the details of your case and give you a good estimate.

Remember, insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible. That’s why having a lawyer can help. They know how to negotiate and fight for the money you deserve.

What is the Average Payout for a Motorcycle Accident in Baltimore, MD?

Motorcycle accident payouts in Baltimore can vary a lot. They might be a few thousand dollars or over a million. The average is usually between $20,000 and $200,000. 

But every case is different. Things like how bad you’re hurt, your medical bills, if you can work, and who caused the accident can change how much money you get. 

Your case might be worth more or less than these numbers. That’s why it’s smart to talk to a lawyer. They can look at your specific situation and tell you what to expect. Don’t assume you’ll get the average amount – your case is unique.

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Is the Deck Already Stacked Against You?

To a motorcycle enthusiast, there is simply no greater feeling than riding fast on the open road with the wind at your back. Nevertheless, motorcycles and the individuals who operate them are both viewed by the public at large as unsafe.

This perception of motorcycle operators being “rebels without a cause” is likely due to statistics released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which indicate that a motorcyclist is, on average, five times more likely to be injured in a roadway accident.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, public perception may already be working against you. According to the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration, the state records an average of 1,046 injuries and 73 fatalities among motorcyclists each year. ​

​In 2022, approximately 6,222 motorcyclists were killed in crashes across the United States, marking the highest number ever recorded and a 23% increase since 2019. The economic impact of these incidents is substantial; in 2019, the total economic cost of motor vehicle crashes was estimated at $340 billion, encompassing medical expenses, lost productivity, legal and court costs, emergency services, insurance administration, and property damage. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to advocate for universal helmet laws, emphasizing their effectiveness in saving lives and reducing economic costs associated with motorcycle accidents. ​

What most people don’t account for is that frequently, another driver – whether intoxicated, driving recklessly, or failing to notice the motorcyclist – is the one that causes the fatal crash and winds up walking away with minimal to no injury.

​Riding a motorcycle can be an enjoyable and efficient mode of transportation; however, motorcycle accidents are disproportionately severe. While motorcycles represent only about 3% of all registered vehicles in Maryland, motorcycle-related crashes account for approximately 14% of the state’s traffic fatalities. ​

Maryland Helmet Laws

In 1967, the federal government required each state within the United States to implement a universal helmet regulation. This required each state to enforce laws that would mandate the use of helmets for all motorcycle drivers. In exchange, the federal government would allow those states to qualify for federal highway funds.

As of 1975, all but three states had complied with these regulations. However, in 1976 Congress revoked federal authority to enforce penalties for non-compliance. Therefore, many states began to relax helmet requirements for motorcycle operators. Most states enforced helmet regulations only for young or inexperienced drivers.

Maryland has a law that requires motorcyclists to wear DOT-approved helmets. In addition to helmets, all operators are required to wear protective eyewear. For more details on Maryland’s helmet law, see the Motor Vehicle Administration’s website. However, if you have already been in a motorcycle accident and were not wearing a helmet, you are not necessarily negligent.

In the 1970 Maryland case Rogers v. Frush, the Court of Appeals of Maryland ruled that riding a motorcycle without a helmet does not make a rider contributorily negligent and does not relieve automobile drivers of their obligation to drive their vehicles in a careful and prudent manner.

In the 1989 case of Doehring v. Wagner, the Maryland Court of Special Appeals revisited the issue of contributory negligence and not wearing a motorcycle helmet. In that case, the Court held that riding a motorcycle at high speed without a helmet at night and without headlights was contributory negligence.

However, many factors were at play in Doehring aside from the motorcyclist not wearing a helmet. Of course, wearing a motorcycle helmet in Maryland is always strongly encouraged, and motorcyclists could face steep fines for not doing so. Additionally, helmets have been proven to reduce the possibility of head trauma in motorcycle accidents.

Why Public Perception Matters

Maryland employed doctrines frequently referred to as contributory negligence and assumption of risk laws. What these laws do, is they operate as a complete defense to negligence claims where a Defendant can show that the motorcycle operator was contributorily negligent in some manner or otherwise assumed a known risk of injury.

Given the public perception of the danger of motorcycle operations and the high likelihood of injury or death in a collision, these defenses presented by the insurance companies are often successful.

Accordingly, motorcycle operators who are victims of negligence of third-party drivers will likely need to present their case in the strongest light possible. In some instances, hiring an experienced attorney or legal team will be the wisest course of action.

We can help! Call a Baltimore motorcycle accident attorney for a free consultation at 410-576-4287.

What are Common Injuries from Motorcycle Crashes in Baltimore?

Motorcycle crashes can cause all kinds of injuries. Some are minor, but others can be very serious. Here are some of the most common injuries we see in Baltimore:

• Road rash: which happens when you slide on the road. It can be painful and leave scars.
• Broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones often get broken in motorcycle accidents.
• Head injuries: Even with a helmet, you can get a concussion or worse. Head injuries can be very serious.
• Spinal cord injuries: These can cause pain, numbness, or even paralysis.
• Internal injuries: Sometimes, organs get hurt inside your body. This can be very dangerous
• Cuts and bruises: Deep lacerations and contusions are common in most accidents.
• Knee injuries: Where your knees can get badly hurt if they hit the ground or another vehicle.
• Shoulder injuries: Commonly from falling off a motorcycle. 
• Facial injuries: When your face hits something, you might need stitches or even surgery.
• Emotional trauma: Accidents can be scary and leave you feeling upset for a long time.

Remember, some injuries might not show up right away. That’s why it’s important to see a doctor after any motorcycle accident, even if you feel okay.

If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle crash, make sure to keep all your medical records. These will be important if you need to make a claim or go to court.

Benefits of Hiring a Baltimore Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Hiring a motorcycle accident attorney in Baltimore can really help you out because they know the law and understand all the complicated legal issues, so you don’t have to. 

Lawyers deal with insurance companies, which can be tricky, and they know how to talk to them to get you more money. They can figure out how much your case is really worth and fight to get you every penny you deserve. 

Dealing with an accident is hard enough, so your lawyer can handle all the paperwork and phone calls, saving you time and stress. They gather the evidence needed to make your case strong and can take your case to court if the insurance company isn’t fair. 

Also, knowing a professional is handling your case can give you peace of mind and help you relax and focus on getting better. A good lawyer has experience handling many cases like yours and knows what works and what doesn’t. Your lawyer’s job is to fight for you and your rights, always putting your interests first. 

Having a lawyer can make a big difference in your case, working hard to make sure you get treated fairly and get the money you need to recover from your accident.

Damages for Motorcycle Accidents in Baltimore

When we talk about damages in a motorcycle accident case, we mean the money you can get to help make things right. There are different types of damages you might be able to get:

• Medical bills: Compensation to cover the cost of your hospital stays, doctor visits, medicines, and any other medical care you need because of the accident.
• Lost wages: If you had to miss work because of your injuries, you can ask for money to replace your lost pay.
• Property damage: You can receive money to fix or replace your motorcycle and any other things that were damaged in the crash.
• Pain and suffering: Where you seek money for the physical pain and emotional stress you’ve gone through because of the accident.
• Future medical costs: Sometimes, you may need more medical care in the future, and you can ask for money to cover those costs.
• Loss of earning capacity: If your injuries mean you can’t do your job like you used to, you might be able to get money for this.
• Emotional distress: This is for the mental and emotional problems the accident has caused you.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If you can’t do the things you used to enjoy because of your injuries, you might get money for this.
• Punitive damages: These are extra damages that might be available if the person who caused the accident was really malicious or grossly negligent.
• Wrongful death damages: If someone died in the accident, their family might be able to get money for things like funeral costs and loss of support.

Motorcycle Injury Laws in Maryland

A motorcyclist who is injured in an accident in Maryland may be able to recover damages. Often, motorcycle accidents are caused by another vehicle driver not seeing the motorcycle or by not anticipating the space that a motorcyclist needs to react to their vehicle movements (such as braking or changing lanes).

In Maryland, the negligence laws of these states operate to protect motorcycle riders from the careless mistakes of other vehicle operators, just as they would protect any other vehicle operator.

If you or your loved one was injured in a motorcycle collision, you may be entitled to compensation not only for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering but also for the repair or replacement of your damaged motorcycle. You may also be entitled to compensation for reasonably foreseeable future medical treatment or other non-economic damages for serious injuries, such as:

• Closed-head injuries and accidental brain injury
• Death
• Bone fractures
• Spinal cord injury
• Serious abrasions

Proving Fault in a Baltimore Motorcycle Crash

Proving who was at fault in a motorcycle crash is really important. It can decide whether you get money for your injuries or not. 

So, how do you do it? 

• First, collect evidence like photos of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, traffic camera footage, and damage to the vehicles. 
• Then, show the other driver was careless by proving they did something wrong, like speeding, running a red light, texting while driving, or not yielding the right of way.
• Next, prove their carelessness caused the accident. It’s not enough to show they did something wrong; you also have to show that’s what caused the crash.
• Show you were following the rules, driving safely, and obeying traffic laws. Sometimes, accident reconstruction experts can help figure out exactly what happened.
• Look for traffic violations, as a ticket can help prove they were at fault. If the other driver was drunk, that’s strong evidence they were at fault. Gather medical evidence, as your injuries can sometimes show how the accident happened. Check for vehicle defects because sometimes a problem with one of the vehicles might have caused the crash.
• Consider multiple factors, as often more than one thing contributes to an accident. Your lawyer will look at all possibilities. Remember, Maryland has a rule called contributory negligence, which means if you were even a little bit at fault, you might not be able to get any money. That’s why it’s so important to have a good lawyer who can prove the other driver was completely at fault.

Who Can You Sue in a Motorcycle Crash in Baltimore?

Often, the answer depends on who was involved in the accident and what happened. Here are some possibilities:

• The other driver: If they caused the accident, they (or their insurance company) should pay for your injuries.
• The vehicle owner: Sometimes, the person driving isn’t the owner of the car, and you might be able to sue the owner, too.
• The driver’s employer: When the person who hit you was working at the time, you might be able to sue their company.
• The government: When bad road conditions caused your accident, you might be able to sue the city or state government responsible for the road.
• A bar or restaurant: If a drunk driver hit you, you might be able to sue the place that served them too much alcohol.
• The motorcycle manufacturer: If your accident was caused by a problem with your motorcycle, you might be able to sue the company that made it.
• A repair shop: If recent work on your motorcycle was faulty, you might be able to sue the repair shop.
• Multiple parties: Often, more than one person or company might be responsible, so your lawyer will look at all possibilities.
• Your own insurance company: If the other driver doesn’t have insurance or enough coverage, you might need to make a claim with your own insurance.
• A parts manufacturer: If a faulty part on either vehicle caused the accident, you might be able to sue the company that made that part.

Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

• Cars turning left: Accidents often happen when a car turns left in front of a motorcycle.
• Speeding: High speeds make it hard to control a motorcycle and react to dangers.
• Drunk driving: Alcohol impairs reflexes and distance judgment.
• Lane splitting: Driving between lanes of cars is dangerous and often illegal.
• Sudden stops: Motorcycles may not stop in time when cars stop suddenly.
• Road hazards: Potholes, gravel, or wet roads are extra dangerous for motorcycles.
• Inexperienced riders: New riders are more likely to make mistakes.
• Distracted driving: Texting or other distractions can cause accidents.
• Car doors opening: Parked cars opening doors without looking can cause accidents.
• Weather conditions: Rain, wind, and fog make riding more dangerous.
• Tailgating: Following too closely reduces stopping time.
• Poorly maintained motorcycles: Brake or tire issues can lead to accidents.
• Blind spots: Motorcycles are small and hard for other drivers to see.
• Unsafe lane changes: Cars changing lanes without checking can hit motorcycles.
• Night riding: Reduced visibility at night leads to more accidents.

Filing an Insurance Claim for a Motorcycle Accident in Maryland

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Maryland, you’ll need to file an insurance claim to get money for your injuries and damages. Here’s how you might do it:

• Always call the police after an accident. They’ll make a report that you’ll need for your claim.
  
• See a doctor right away, even if you don’t think you’re badly hurt. You’ll need medical records for your claim.
  
• Gather information: Get the other driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details. Take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries.
  
• Contact your insurance company: Let them know about the accident as soon as possible. They’ll tell you what to do next.
  
• Don’t admit fault: Be careful what you say to the other driver or the insurance company. Don’t say the accident was your fault.
  
• Keep records: Save all your medical bills, repair estimates, and any other papers related to the accident
• Write down what happened: While it’s fresh in your mind, write down everything you remember about the accident.
• Be careful what you say: The insurance company might ask for a recorded statement. It’s best to talk to a lawyer before you do this.
• Don’t take the first offer: Insurance companies often offer less money than you deserve at first. Don’t accept an offer without talking to a lawyer.
• Consider hiring a lawyer: A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you file your claim and make sure you get a fair amount of money.
• File a claim with the other driver’s insurance: If the other driver was at fault, you’ll need to file a claim with their insurance company, too.
• Be patient: It can take time to settle an insurance claim. Don’t rush to accept a low offer just to get it over with.
• Appeal if needed: If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal. A lawyer can help with this.

Bob Katz Law, Baltimore motorcycle accident lawyers, help victims inside Maryland, and our firm is conveniently located near you. We have an office in Baltimore at 1001 Fleet St Suite 525, Baltimore, MD 21202. Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 39.2841097472434, -76.59946847149862.

Timothy J. Capurso

Timothy J. Capurso is chair of the firm’s Personal Injury Practice Group. He concentrates his practice on personal injury cases of all types, focusing on automobile accidents. His background includes litigating personal injury cases from inception through trial and settlement negotiations. 25+ years of experience.

Contact Timothy J. Capruso

 

A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me

Motorcycle Accident in Baltimore? You may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. An experienced Motorcycle Accident attorney near you can guide you through the legal process and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact Bob Katz Law today to schedule a consultation and get the trusted support you need to move forward with confidence.

Free Consultation Call us: 410-576-4287

Other Motor Vehicle Accidents We Handle:

• Car Accident Lawyer Baltimore
• Baltimore Pedestrian Accident Lawyer
• Rideshare Accident Lawyer Baltimore Md
• Baltimore Truck Accident Lawyer
• Baltimore Bus Accident Lawyer

Other Personal Injury Cases We Handle:

• Wrongful Death Lawyer Baltimore
• Baltimore Workers Compensation Lawyer
• Baltimore Slip and Fall Lawyer
• Baltimore Dog Bite Lawyer
• Baltimore Brain Injury Lawyer
• Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Baltimore County
• Baltimore Work Injury Lawyer
• Baltimore Construction Accident Lawyer
• Maryland Premises Liability Attorney
• Baltimore Burn Injury Lawyer
• Maryland Pool Injury + Drowning Attorney