WGK Personal Injury Lawyers | April 18, 2025 | Motorcycle Accidents
With the weather warming up, it’s no surprise that more motorcycles are hitting the roads around Baltimore. May is officially Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month – a national campaign to remind both riders and drivers to share the road and prioritize safety.
Our Baltimore personal injury attorneys have seen firsthand how devastating motorcycle accidents can be. While motorcyclists have the same rights as any other motorist, they’re far more vulnerable in the event of a collision. That’s why this month, we’re joining the effort to raise awareness – and encourage both riders and drivers to do their part in keeping our roads safe.
Why Motorcycle Safety Matters in Maryland
According to the Maryland Department of Transportation, motorcycles account for approximately 2% of registered vehicles but make up nearly 14% of traffic fatalities in the state. The numbers are even more troubling when you consider how many of these crashes are caused by careless or distracted driving.
In many cases, it’s not the rider who’s at fault – it’s the driver of a car or truck who failed to see the motorcycle or misjudged its speed. Intersections, lane changes, and left-hand turns are particularly dangerous scenarios for motorcyclists, especially in congested areas like downtown Baltimore or along major commuter routes like I-83 and I-695.
Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riders
If you’re a motorcycle rider, there are steps you can take to reduce your risks on the road. Start with the basics:
- Wear protective gear: Always wear a DOT-approved helmet, gloves, long sleeves, and sturdy boots. Reflective gear is especially important when riding at night.
- Stay visible: Avoid blind spots and use your headlights – even during the day. Bright colors and reflective tape can also help you stand out.
- Ride defensively: Assume that other drivers don’t see you. Keep a safe following distance and be cautious at intersections.
- Avoid distractions: Stay off of your phone and keep your attention fully on the road.
- Obey traffic laws: Speeding, lane splitting, or aggressive riding can increase your risk of serious injury.
Completing a motorcycle safety course is also a great way to brush up on your skills, no matter what your experience level is.
What Baltimore Drivers Need to Remember
Drivers of passenger vehicles have a major role to play in motorcycle safety. Many motorcycle accidents occur simply because a driver wasn’t paying attention.
Here are a few key tips:
- Look twice: Always double-check for motorcycles before changing lanes or making turns.
- Respect their space: Never crowd a motorcycle. Give them a full lane and plenty of room to maneuver.
- Avoid distractions: Texting, eating, or adjusting the radio can take your focus off the road long enough to cause a crash.
- Be extra alert in poor weather: Rain, fog, or low light conditions can make motorcycles even harder to see.
By remaining diligent behind the wheel, you can avoid devastating accidents and keep yourself and others safer.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Baltimore
Despite best efforts, accidents still happen – often due to the negligence of another driver. If that happens, it’s important to understand your legal rights. Injuries from motorcycle crashes – such as broken bones, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries – tend to be severe. The recovery process can be long and expensive.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in the Baltimore area, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the insurance process and build a strong case.
Our firm is proud to stand up for Baltimore’s motorcycle community. We understand the unique risks riders face, and we’re here to fight for justice after an accident.
Making Maryland’s Roads Safer for Motorcycle Riders
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month is more than a campaign – it’s a reminder that every road user has a role to play. Whether you’re behind the handlebars or the wheel, take a moment to slow down, pay attention, and respect one another. A little awareness can go a long way toward preventing a tragedy.
Contact the Baltimore Motorcycle Accident Law Firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information contact the Baltimore motorcycle accident law firm of WGK Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation.
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers
14 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
(410) 837-2144
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers – Dundalk Office
7329 Holabird Ave Suite 3, Dundalk, MD 21222
By appointment only
(410) 970-3080