What To Do if You’re in a Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accident in Maryland
Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be terrifying. The situation can become even more distressing if the other driver leaves the accident scene. After a hit-and-run motorcycle accident, you might find yourself feeling confused about your rights and how to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, motorcycle repairs, and other accident-related expenses and losses.
If you’ve been involved in a Maryland hit-and-run motorcycle accident, it is vital to know the steps to take to safeguard your legal rights. In this article, we discuss what to do if you’re in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident in Maryland.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
Maryland law requires drivers to remain at the scene after an accident that causes bodily injury and render assistance and exchange information, such as names, addresses, and vehicle registration numbers. Unfortunately, some drivers disobey this rule and speed away.
Hit-and-run motorcycle accident happens for various reasons, including;
- Driving without insurance or a valid license
- Panic or shock following an accident
- Fear of being arrested for driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Existing warrants or previous traffic violations
Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal in Maryland. Failing to stay at the scene of an accident is considered a felony. If a person is convicted, they could be imprisoned for up to five years and fined up to $5,000. Also, just because the other driver speeds away does not mean the injured motorcyclist is not entitled to compensation. You still have the right to pursue compensation.
Steps To Take After a Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accident
If you have been in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident in Maryland, here are the steps to take to protect your legal rights;
- Report the Accident
The first and most crucial step is to call 911 to report your accident. The police will document the accident in an official report that can serve as critical evidence for any insurance or legal claim you file in the future.
- Get Prompt Medical Attention
When you call 911, emergency medical responders will be sent to the scene. Emergency responders can check for injuries. Even if you feel “okay” or believe your injuries are minor, it is best to get an assessment. Getting prompt medical attention is not only beneficial to your health, but it also creates an official medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
- Gather Evidence
If you are able, collect and document as much information as you can, including;
- Videos and photos of the accident scene
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
- Any details of the fleeing vehicle, such as make, model, color, and any part of the license plate you remember
- When and where the accident happened
- The direction the driver fled to
- Notify Your Insurance Company
You should contact your insurance company as soon as possible and notify them of your hit-and-run accident. While the other driver may have fled, you may be entitled to compensation under your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which all Maryland drivers are required to carry. This coverage, which protects you when you are hit by an uninsured driver, can also protect you if the other driver cannot be found or identified. And you are protected even if you were on your bike when you got hit.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you have been injured in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident in Maryland, contact our experienced Towson motorcycle accident attorneys at Hardball Law for legal guidance.
Source:
mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/laws/StatuteText?article=gtr§ion=20-102&enactments=false
