Bicycle Accidents in Maryland: Legal Rights and Steps for Cyclists

Cycling is a fantastic way to commute, exercise, and explore Maryland’s scenic routes, but it’s not without risks. Bicycle accidents can lead to severe injuries, leaving you with physical pain, emotional stress, and mounting medical bills. Understanding your legal rights as a cyclist in Maryland and the steps to take after an accident can make all the difference in securing fair compensation.

Here, we’ll break down the common causes of bicycle accidents, your legal rights as a cyclist in Maryland, and what you should do if you’ve been injured in a crash.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Maryland

Bicycle accidents happen for many reasons, but some causes are more prevalent than others. Maryland’s roads can be particularly challenging for cyclists due to a mix of dense urban areas and busy rural routes. Common causes include:

1. Driver Negligence:
   Many accidents occur because drivers fail to see cyclists or give them the required space. Common forms of negligence include speeding, failing to yield, running red lights, or opening car doors without checking for approaching cyclists (“dooring”).
2. Distracted Driving:
   Drivers distracted by texting, phone calls, or other activities may drift into bike lanes or fail to notice a cyclist in time to avoid a collision.
3. Poor Road Conditions:
   Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris on the road can create hazardous conditions for cyclists. If a municipality fails to maintain safe roads, they could share liability for an accident.
4. Cyclist Visibility Issues:
   Maryland law requires cyclists to use lights and reflectors when riding at night. However, even with proper equipment, low visibility conditions can still lead to accidents.
5. Right Turns and Intersections:
   Intersections are among the most dangerous spots for cyclists. Drivers turning right often fail to check for cyclists traveling straight, resulting in side-swipes or collisions.

Your Legal Rights as a Cyclist in Maryland

In Maryland, bicycles are legally considered vehicles, which means you have the same rights—and responsibilities—as motor vehicle drivers. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Right to the Road:
   You are entitled to use most roadways in Maryland, except where bicycles are explicitly prohibited (e.g., highways). Drivers must respect your presence on the road and provide at least three feet of clearance when passing, per Maryland’s “Three-Foot Law.”
2. Obligations:
   As a cyclist, you must obey traffic laws, including stopping at red lights and stop signs, signaling turns, and riding in the same direction as traffic. Failure to follow these rules could jeopardize your ability to recover compensation in an accident.
3. Contributory Negligence in Maryland:
   Maryland follows the strict standard of contributory negligence. If you’re found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering compensation. For example, if you failed to signal a turn or weren’t wearing proper safety gear, an insurance company or defense attorney might argue that you contributed to the crash.
4. Liability of Other Parties:
   If a driver, municipality, or other entity is at fault for your accident, they may be held liable for damages. Maryland law allows you to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident in Maryland

Taking the right steps after an accident can strengthen your case and improve your chances of fair compensation:

1. Seek Medical Attention:
   Your health should always be your top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical care immediately. Documentation from a doctor is essential for your claim.
2. Call the Police:
   Report the accident to the police and ensure they create an official accident report. Be sure to provide your account of what happened.
3. Gather Evidence:
   If possible, take photos of the accident scene, your bike, the vehicle involved, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information for witnesses and the driver.
4. Avoid Admitting Fault:
   Be cautious about what you say at the scene and to insurance adjusters. Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault.
5. Consult an Attorney:
   Navigating Maryland’s contributory negligence law can be challenging, especially when insurance companies attempt to minimize your claim. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and build a strong case for maximum compensation.

Get Help Protecting Your Rights

Bicycle accidents can leave you with life-altering injuries and financial burdens. As a cyclist, you have the right to use Maryland’s roads safely and the right to seek compensation when someone else’s negligence causes harm.

At the Law Offices of Nicholas Parr, we understand the unique challenges cyclists face. Whether you’re negotiating with insurance companies or fighting for your rights in court, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve. We’ll guide you through the process and fight to maximize your compensation, and we don’t get paid unless you win.