WHY ARE THE DRIVERS OF CARS NEGLIGENT IN MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT CASES?

I will explain some of the important differences between motorcycle accident cases and automobile accident cases so that you are aware of why these cases are unique and require special attention.

Motorcycles are motor vehicles, just like automobiles. The drivers of both types of motor vehicles, motorcycles and automobiles, must follow the same exact rules of the road and vehicle laws in Maryland and have the same duties to each other as drivers of motor vehicles. However, it is important to know that the majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of the driver of an automobile.

Statistics report that approximately eight (8) out of ten (10) multi-vehicle accidents involving motorcycles are caused by the negligence of the driver of an automobile. This is due in part because drivers of automobiles often do not treat motorcycles the same way as they treat other motor vehicles on the road.

One reason is because motorcycles are smaller in size than cars and do not occupy the majority of the traffic lane like automobiles do. Therefore, cars tend to follow too closely behind them.

Drivers of cars also tend to cut into the motorcyclist’s proper lane of traffic without allowing sufficient distance, thereby, depriving the motorcycle of full use of lane.

This violation of the motor vehicle laws carries a penalty of one point and a fine of $150.00 if it contributed to an accident. To see the Fines and Penalties for certain violations of the motor vehicle and other laws in Maryland, visit: http://www.courts.state.md.us/district/forms/criminal/dccr090.pdf

Another common cause of motorcycle accidents is the fact that motorcycles are designed and engineered very differently from cars. Motorcycles are able to stop much faster and require less distance to stop than cars, causing rear-end accidents because the driver of the car was negligently following too closely behind the motorcyclist. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by the automobile driver’s failure to yield the right of way to the motorcyclist.

Call me directly at 410-983-3022 and I will answer your questions and concerns, contact me by completing the Contact box on the left side of this page, or email me. I will discuss, review and evaluate your case with you at no charge. You can also protect your case by reading my Free Bike Accident Fact Book and learn what to do Right Now.