Motorcycle Accident in Maryland? Get the justice and compensation you deserve. Call Attorney Michael Siddons for a FREE consultation: (610) 255-7500. No fee unless we win.
Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Maryland
Motorcycle accidents in Maryland are particularly dangerous for riders due to the state’s strict contributory negligence rule. When a motorcyclist is injured in Maryland, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will aggressively look for any way to argue the rider shares even a small fraction of blame — because under Maryland law, being even 1% at fault can bar you from all recovery. Attorney Michael Siddons understands these unique challenges and fights to protect Maryland motorcyclists from unfair blame-shifting tactics.
Maryland Motorcycle Accident Laws
Maryland’s contributory negligence doctrine makes motorcycle accident cases uniquely challenging. Unlike most states where your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault, Maryland can completely bar your recovery if you are found even 1% at fault. This is especially dangerous for motorcyclists, as insurance companies routinely argue that riders were speeding, weaving, not wearing proper gear, or being reckless — regardless of the facts. Maryland is an at-fault state (not no-fault), so you must pursue the at-fault driver’s insurance. The statute of limitations is three years. Maryland requires all riders to wear DOT-approved helmets, and all riders must complete a motorcycle safety course to obtain an M endorsement.
Types of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle
We handle all motorcycle accident cases in Maryland including left-turn accidents, rear-end collisions, lane-change and blind-spot accidents, intersection collisions, accidents caused by road hazards, drunk or impaired driver crashes, hit-and-run accidents, accidents on Routes 50, 97, 301 and other major Maryland highways, crashes involving defective motorcycle components, and wrongful death claims from fatal motorcycle accidents.
Compensation Available in Maryland Motorcycle Accident Cases
Maryland motorcycle accident victims may recover compensation for all medical expenses, lost wages and future earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, scarring and disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, property damage, and punitive damages in egregious cases. However, because of contributory negligence, you must prove the other driver was entirely at fault to recover any of these damages — making experienced legal representation absolutely essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does contributory negligence affect motorcycle accident claims in Maryland?
Maryland’s contributory negligence rule means if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be completely barred from recovering any compensation. Insurance companies use this rule aggressively against motorcyclists. An experienced attorney is essential to protect you from this defense.
What is the statute of limitations for a motorcycle accident in Maryland?
You have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Maryland. For claims involving government entities, you must file a notice within one year. Contact an attorney promptly.
Is Maryland a no-fault state for motorcycle accidents?
No. Maryland is a traditional at-fault (tort) state. The person who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages. You pursue compensation through the at-fault driver’s liability insurance or through a personal injury lawsuit.
What if the insurance company says I was partially at fault?
This is the most dangerous scenario in Maryland due to contributory negligence. Even a claim of 1% fault can bar your entire recovery. Attorney Siddons builds strong cases establishing the other driver’s complete liability and counters every blame-shifting tactic.
Do I have to wear a helmet in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear DOT-approved helmets at all times. Not wearing a helmet would be used against you by insurance companies, and given Maryland’s contributory negligence rule, could be devastating to your claim.
Ready to Fight for Your Rights? Contact Siddons Law Firm today for your FREE motorcycle accident consultation. Call (610) 255-7500. We serve all of Maryland. No fee unless we win.