Motorcycle Accident Attorney Serving Glen Burnie & Columbia MD

Motorcyclists face a higher level of risk than just about any other motorists on the road. They have minimal protection around them, and this means that even a minor accident can lead to life-changing consequences for them. But, it’s not only the physical harm of accidents that motorcycle riders have to worry about; they also have to think about the financial and emotional toll that a motorcycle accident can have on them, their family and anyone else who may be involved in said accident.

At the Law Office of Matthew Kunka, we have seen firsthand how a single moment on the road can forever change a rider’s life. That’s why, if you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Glen Burnie, Columbia, or the nearby Maryland communities, we suggest that you speak to a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Luckily, Matthew Kanka is here to help you get to grips with the nuances of Maryland’s personal injury laws and the unique challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims with careful negotiation and aggressive courtroom advocacy that will help you to get the best possible outcome and the most compensation possible. That’s why locals trust Matthew to get the job done.

The Uniqueness of Motorcycle Accident Cases

Motorcycles, by nature, provide very little physical protection for riders. Unlike cars, which feature seatbelts, airbags, and a metal frame, motorcycles expose riders to direct impact. Although helmets and protective gear can reduce the severity of injuries, they often do not eliminate the risk of catastrophic harm. Additionally, the inherent design of a motorcycle makes it more susceptible to hazards such as slippery roads, uneven pavement, and debris. These factors combine to create accidents that can cause more extensive injuries than those seen in collisions involving other types of motor vehicles.

From a legal standpoint, motorcycle accident cases frequently involve different considerations than standard car accident claims. For instance, insurance companies sometimes hold biases against motorcyclists, viewing them as reckless or inherently risk-prone. This perception can lead to unfair blame being placed on riders—even when the facts do not support such claims. As a result, it is crucial to have a legal advocate who understands how to counter these misconceptions and vigorously defend your right to compensation.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

1. Distracted Driving: Many motorcycle accidents occur because other motorists fail to pay adequate attention. Drivers may be texting, talking on their phones, fiddling with in-car technology, or simply not scanning the road properly, and they fail to notice a motorcyclist until it is too late.
2. Left-Turn Collisions: A frequent scenario involves a car making a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, usually at an intersection. Drivers sometimes misjudge the speed of the motorcycle or fail to see it entirely, resulting in a serious crash.
3. Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed on the part of either a motorcyclist or another driver drastically increases the likelihood of a collision. Traveling at high speeds reduces reaction time, limits maneuverability, and often amplifies the severity of injuries.
4. Lane Splitting: While the legality of lane splitting varies by jurisdiction, it can be dangerous if the motorcyclist or the surrounding vehicles are not accustomed to sharing lanes in traffic. Drivers changing lanes unexpectedly can collide with a rider who is attempting to move between lanes.
5. Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, loose gravel, oil slicks, or other hazards are often more perilous to motorcycles than to cars. A small patch of uneven pavement can cause a sudden loss of control, especially at high speeds.
6. Driving Under the Influence: Impairment from alcohol or drugs affects coordination, reaction time, and judgment. Whether it is the motorcyclist or the driver of another vehicle who is impaired, the risk of a collision skyrockets.

Frequent Injuries and Their Consequences

The injuries resulting from a motorcycle accident can range from mild to catastrophic. Because riders have less protection, the potential for long-term or permanent harm is significant. Some common types of injuries include:

• Road Rash: When a rider is thrown off a motorcycle and slides across pavement, they can suffer severe abrasions or “road rash.” These injuries can lead to infections, permanent scarring, and potential nerve damage.
• Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, wrists, and ankles are commonly broken in motorcycle accidents. Severe fractures may require multiple surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and can result in permanent loss of mobility or chronic pain.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Even with a helmet, the head is vulnerable in a high-impact crash. Traumatic brain injuries can manifest in a variety of ways, from concussions to life-threatening swelling or hemorrhaging.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong care. These types of injuries often demand costly medical interventions, specialized equipment, and home modifications.
• Internal Injuries: The force of a collision can cause internal bleeding and organ damage. Because these injuries are not always immediately obvious, they can be especially dangerous if not diagnosed promptly.
• Emotional Trauma: Apart from the physical harm, many victims suffer psychological impacts such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression. The emotional toll of severe injuries can be equally as debilitating as physical ones.

The long-term financial consequences of these injuries can be staggering. Between hospital bills, specialized therapies, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity, victims often need substantial compensation to regain a semblance of normalcy. It is for this reason that engaging an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is so critical.

The Role of a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Navigating the legal and insurance processes after a motorcycle accident is daunting—especially when you are dealing with injuries and the stress of missed work. A skilled motorcycle accident attorney can handle these complexities, enabling you to focus on your recovery. Some of the critical tasks a lawyer undertakes include:

1. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: This involves obtaining police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage, as well as hiring accident reconstruction experts if necessary. The goal is to establish a clear picture of liability and the extent of damages.
2. Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize or deny valid claims. Your attorney serves as your advocate during negotiations, working to secure a fair settlement that truly reflects your losses.
3. Building a Compelling Case: Beyond showing who was at fault, you must also demonstrate the true extent of your physical, financial, and emotional damages. This can include consulting medical experts, gathering documentation of missed work, and evaluating projected future medical costs.
4. Negotiation and Litigation: While many injury claims settle outside of court, some do progress to trial. A formidable attorney is prepared to fight for your rights in a courtroom if negotiations stall or if the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement.
5. Providing Emotional Support: Suffering a traumatic accident is harrowing. Throughout the process, an experienced attorney helps you remain informed, aware of your rights, and reassured that your best interests are being championed.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

In the immediate aftermath of an accident, your actions can heavily influence both your physical recovery and the strength of any future claim. While every situation is different, the following steps offer general guidelines:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health takes priority. If paramedics arrive on the scene, allow them to evaluate you, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Timely documentation of your condition can prove critical in later insurance or legal proceedings.
2. Contact Law Enforcement: Filing a police report is an important step toward establishing the facts surrounding the accident. Officers will note critical details and may issue citations if one party is deemed at fault.
3. Exchange Information: Gather contact and insurance details from any other involved motorists, as well as potential witnesses. If you are physically unable to do this, ask someone else at the scene or an officer for assistance.
4. Document the Scene: If you are able, take photos or videos of the crash site, vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries, and any other relevant details. Such evidence may be invaluable later for establishing liability.
5. Notify Your Insurance Provider: Most insurance policies require prompt notification of an accident. Limit your statements to the basic facts—when, where, and how the crash occurred—until you have consulted with an attorney.
6. Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Before providing detailed statements or accepting any settlement from an insurance company, speak with a qualified attorney. Doing so ensures your rights remain protected and that you are positioned to receive maximum compensation.

Pursuing Compensation for Your Losses

When you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for the multitude of losses you have endured. These may include:

• Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of ambulance rides, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. If injuries are severe, you may also require adaptive equipment and home modifications.
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Injuries can require weeks or months away from work. In more severe cases, you may be unable to return to your previous position or sustain the same level of income due to disability or diminished capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Maryland courts often allow victims to seek damages for the physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life that stems from a motorcycle accident.
• Property Damage: You can recover the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged motorcycle, helmet, riding gear, and other personal property.
• Loss of Consortium: In cases involving catastrophic injuries, spouses and family members may be entitled to damages for the loss of companionship and support.

It is worth noting that Maryland follows a “contributory negligence” doctrine, which states that if a victim is found even partially at fault for the accident, they can be barred from receiving compensation. This standard makes it especially imperative to have an adept motorcycle accident attorney who can demonstrate that the other party is entirely responsible—or at the very least, that any alleged partial fault on your part is not credible.

How the Law Office of Matthew Kunka Can Help

The Law Office of Matthew Kunka takes a personalized approach to each motorcycle accident case we handle. Here are a few key reasons to consider us as your legal representatives:

1. Local Focus: Our firm is deeply rooted in the Glen Burnie and Columbia communities, with experience tackling personal injury cases across Maryland. This local familiarity often proves advantageous when dealing with regional insurance adjusters and court procedures.
2. Comprehensive Legal Strategy: We appreciate that no two accidents are alike. We invest the time necessary to meticulously investigate your case and craft a legal strategy tailored to your unique needs. Our goal is always to maximize your compensation while minimizing the stress you face.
3. Strong Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies routinely underestimate the true costs associated with motorcycle accidents. We are dedicated to fighting on your behalf for a fair and just settlement. If the insurer refuses to settle, we will not hesitate to escalate the matter to litigation.
4. Client-Centered Communication: We understand that the legal system can be confusing and intimidating. Our team provides regular updates, explains the nuances of personal injury law in a straightforward manner, and makes sure you understand each step of the process before moving forward.
5. Commitment to Justice: The aftermath of a serious motorcycle accident is overwhelming, both physically and financially. We take pride in offering compassionate counsel and unyielding representation. Each client’s well-being is our priority, and we measure our success by the difference we make in your life.