Arnold Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents are a common source of injuries in Arnold, MD. Regardless of whether they occur on the highway, on an urban street, or in a parking lot, these crashes have a propensity to cause significant harm. Victims regularly suffer costly medical bills, damaged property, lost income, emotional anguish, and excruciating physical pain.
If you were hurt because of a motorcycle accident, then our team will review the strength of your potential case against the at-fault party. Furthermore, we can offer crucial assistance when gathering evidence, filing your lawsuit, and negotiating for appropriate compensation.
Get in touch with our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Rice, Murtha & Psoras by calling (410) 694-7291.
Communicating with Insurance Companies After a Motorcycle Accident in Arnold, MD
It is essential that you do not speak with an insurance company without our motorcycle accident attorneys present. Insurance companies are primarily focused on minimizing their financial liabilities, often at the expense of fair compensation for injured parties. Without legal representation, you may inadvertently say or disclose information that could be used against you to reduce or deny your claim.
Our legal professionals are experienced in handling insurance companies and understand the tactics they use to devalue claims. We can protect your rights and ensure that you are not taken advantage of at any point during the process of seeking compensation.
Common Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Collisions in Arnold, MD
As previously mentioned, motorcycle accident victims often sustain painful and debilitating injuries. The following is an overview of common injuries caused by collisions in Arnold:
Road Rash
Road rash is a common injury in motorcycle accidents, occurring when the skin comes into contact with the road surface during a crash. This frictional abrasion can result in painful scrapes, cuts, and bruises, often affecting large areas of the body. Road rash injuries can vary in severity, from minor abrasions requiring basic wound care to more extensive injuries that may require skin grafting or reconstructive surgery.
Spinal Cord Damage
Motorcycle accidents can cause spinal cord damage, leading to partial or complete paralysis below the level of the injury. The force of impact or sudden jolts to the spine can result in fractures, herniated discs, or spinal cord compression, impairing motor function and sensation. Spinal cord injuries often have long-term consequences, requiring extensive rehabilitation and adaptive equipment to manage mobility and daily activities.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are common injuries in motorcycle accidents, resulting from the impact of the crash or the rider being thrown from the motorcycle. Fractures can occur in various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, pelvis, ribs, and collarbones. Depending on the severity of the fracture, treatment may involve casting, splinting, or surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the broken bone.
Brain Injuries
Brain injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are serious and potentially life-threatening consequences of motorcycle accidents. Riders can suffer head trauma from direct impact with other vehicles, the road surface, or stationary objects. Brain injuries can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, mood changes, and motor deficits, requiring extensive medical intervention and rehabilitation to manage symptoms and promote recovery.
Torn Ligaments, Sprains, and Strains
The sudden impact and force exerted on the body during a motorcycle accident can cause torn ligaments, sprains, and strains in the joints and soft tissues. These injuries commonly affect the shoulders, knees, wrists, and ankles, causing pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Treatment may involve rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical repair to restore function and stability to the injured joint.
Facial and Dental Injuries
Facial and dental injuries are frequently observed in motorcycle accidents, resulting from impact with the ground, other vehicles, or protective gear. These injuries can range from lacerations and bruising to fractures of the facial bones or teeth. Facial and dental injuries may require surgical intervention, such as facial reconstruction or dental implants, to restore appearance and function.
Psychological Trauma
Motorcycle accidents can also cause significant psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event can have lasting effects on mental health, leading to intrusive thoughts, nightmares, and emotional distress. Psychological trauma may require therapy, counseling, or other forms of mental health support to address and manage the psychological impact of the accident.
What if You Share Fault for Your Motorcycle Accident in Arnold, MD?
If you share fault for your motorcycle accident, then you may be unable to bring a lawsuit against another party.
Maryland courts abide by the doctrine of “contributory negligence” when assigning damages in motorcycle accident cases. This means that if you are found to have played even the smallest role in causing your crash, then you will be restricted from suing another party.
Defendants in motorcycle accident cases often attempt to assert alternative arguments of fault. Accordingly, it is crucial that you gather the evidence necessary to present a compelling case. The sooner you get to work on your case, the more efficient the process of evidence collection will be.
Do Motorcycle Riders in Maryland Have to Wear Helmets in Arnold, MD?
Motorcycle riders in Maryland have to wear helmets regardless of their ages or experience levels. If you were not wearing a helmet at the time of your crash, then it is possible that you may be found contributorily negligent. In other words, you may be considered partially to blame for your injury and will be prevented from filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
Can You Recover Payment for Property Damage After a Motorcycle Crash in Arnold, MD?
You may obtain payment for property damage sustained as a result of your motorcycle crash. For example, if your vehicle was damaged because of your accident, then you may pursue payment for the cost of its repair or replacement.
It may be beneficial to take photographs of your damaged property in the immediate aftermath of your collision. This evidence may help establish that your property damage is related to the accident at issue.
Contact Our Law Firm for Help with Your Motorcycle Accident Case in Arnold
Get assistance from our motorcycle accident attorneys by calling Rice, Murtha & Psoras at (410) 694-7291.