Maryland Motorcycle Accident Attorney Represents Injured Riders

Gaithersburg firm helps clients obtain payment for the harm they've suffered

Despite laws requiring helmets and eye protection, more than a thousand motorcycle riders are hurt annually in collisions on Maryland superhighways such as I-95 and local roads including the Gaithersburg Pike. Despite laws requiring helmets and eye protection, the damage done by a car or truck can be serious or even fatal to bikers. At the Law Office of Christopher J. Smith, LLC in Gaithersburg, we are dedicated to securing justice for motorcycle riders in the Beltway area who have been struck by careless drivers. 

What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents?

A survey reports that 36 percent of fatal motorcycle accidents occur during left turns. In personal injury and wrongful death cases arising from left-turn collisions, we pursue justice against drivers who failed to take proper care. Our firm also takes on liable parties in matters stemming from crashes caused by poor road services, driver inattention and doors that are opened on to active roadways. Under state law, a motorcycle accident victim has three years to file a lawsuit in most cases. However, physical evidence and witnesses might not be accessible if you wait to assert your legal rights, so it's best to get prompt advice from a qualified injury litigator.

Firm pursues compensation for all types of injuries

Without the protection that one has in a car or truck, motorcycle riders can suffer all types of injuries even if the collision does not occur at a high speed, including:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Road rash and other abrasions
  • Spinal injuries
  • Paralysis and other permanent medical conditions

The lawyers and insurance companies representing defendants might try to escape their true liability by offering a week settlement. After reviewing the facts in your case and consulting with medical authorities, we'll work aggressively to obtain a verdict or settlement that truly addresses your harm.

How is fault determined in a motorcycle accident?

Though many cases settle before trial, going to court might be best way to obtain fair compensation for the harm you've suffered. Maryland's strict contributory negligence law means that even if the other party was mostly responsible for the accident, an injured biker cannot collect damages if their negligence contributed in any way to the collision. Accordingly, it is important to retain a lawyer who knows how to push back against claims made by defendants and their insurance companies.  

What types of compensation can I receive for my motorcycle accident?

Compensation that can be awarded in motorcycle accident litigation generally falls into two categories: economic and noneconomic. Economic damages are granted to reimburse victims for the out-of-pocket losses stemming from the crash, such as healthcare bills, rehabilitation expenses and income lost while the injury prevented the plaintiff from going to work. There are also noneconomic damages that cover real but intangible harm resulting from the crash, such as pain and suffering and the loss of enjoyment of life. Maryland caps noneconomic damages at an amount that increases every year. For 2020, the limit is $875,000.

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit?

As in other personal injury claims, people who have been hurt in motorcycle accidents have three years to initiate a lawsuit under Maryland's statute of limitations. Failing to do so eliminates a victim's ability to obtain legal relief. Even if you have a long time to go, it's best to hire a qualified lawyer promptly so that evidence can be collected and a thorough evaluation of the harm that resulted from the accident can occur.

Contact a proven Maryland motorcycle accident lawyer for a free consultation

The Law Office of Christopher J. Smith, LLC in Gaithersburg represents motorcycle riders injured in accidents. Serving clients in Maryland and Washington, D.C. from our office in Gaithersburg, you can call 301-760-7460 or contact us online for a free consultation.

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Location

  • Gaithersburg Office

    Address

    257 Market Street W,
    Suite 100,
    Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878

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    5.0/5.0

    — Jamid Ali Knight

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    5.0/5.0

    Chris was very helpful in resolving my case. He came highly recommended by a previous lawyer, who really did not want to take my case on directly, and suggested Chris might have more experience with my case. Chris was very professional, tim...
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    — Sandra Cotton

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    5.0/5.0

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    5.0/5.0

    Chris is beyond amazing, I can’t thank him enough for his help. If you need someone that’s really going to fight for you Chris is your guy.

    — Monique cluff

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    5.0/5.0

    Experience was great!!! Fast and professional great work

    — Jesse Dent