Gaithersburg Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Who Protect Injured Riders
Legal Support for Motorcyclists in Montgomery County and Throughout Maryland
Motorcyclists face unique risks on Maryland’s roads. Whether you’re riding through Olde Towne Gaithersburg, navigating Quince Orchard Road, or merging onto I-270, one careless driver can change your life in an instant. Crashes involving motorcycles are often severe because riders have little protection against the force of a larger vehicle. The results can include devastating injuries, costly medical bills, and long-term changes to your way of life.
At Goldberg Finnegan, we believe riders deserve to be treated with respect and fairness. Too often, insurance companies try to blame injured bikers for accidents they didn’t cause. Our Gaithersburg motorcycle accident lawyers push back against these unfair tactics, investigate every detail of your crash, and demand the full compensation you’re entitled to. With more than $150 million recovered for injured clients, our team has the experience and resources to fight for riders across Montgomery County.
FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents in Gaithersburg, MD
- What should I do after a motorcycle accident in Gaithersburg?
- How can a Gaithersburg motorcycle accident lawyer help me with my case?
- What are the most common causes of motorcycle crashes in Montgomery County?
- What types of injuries happen in Gaithersburg motorcycle accidents?
- Can I recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet in Maryland?
- How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Maryland?
- What damages can I recover after a motorcycle accident?
- Who can be held responsible for a motorcycle accident in Gaithersburg?
- How do lawyers investigate motorcycle crashes?
- What should I avoid saying to an insurance company after a motorcycle wreck?
- How does Maryland’s contributory negligence rule affect motorcycle accident claims?
- What role does distracted driving play in motorcycle crashes?
- How are drunk driving motorcycle accidents handled under Maryland law?
- What should I know about fatal motorcycle accident claims in Gaithersburg?
- How do I choose the best motorcycle accident lawyer in Gaithersburg?
What should I do after a motorcycle accident in Gaithersburg?
Immediately call 911 to report the crash and request medical assistance. Even if you feel okay, injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not be obvious right away. Accept care from emergency responders and follow up with your doctor.
If possible, collect evidence at the scene. Take photos of your motorcycle, the other vehicle, the roadway, and any injuries. Exchange insurance information with the driver and get contact details from witnesses. Finally, avoid giving detailed statements to the insurance company before speaking with a lawyer.
How can a Gaithersburg motorcycle accident lawyer help me with my case?
Motorcycle cases require focused representation because insurers often stereotype riders as reckless. At Goldberg Finnegan, we:
- Investigate the crash by reviewing police reports, witness statements, and camera footage.
- Work with accident reconstructionists to show how the collision occurred.
- Consult medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries.
- Calculate damages that include medical costs, lost wages, and reduced earning potential.
- Handle communications with insurers and fight back against attempts to shift blame.
- Take your case to trial if a fair settlement isn’t offered.
What are the most common causes of motorcycle crashes in Montgomery County?
Riders are vulnerable to many forms of negligence, including:
- Drivers failing to yield at intersections or while turning left.
- Distracted driving, including texting behind the wheel.
- Speeding or reckless lane changes on I-270 and local roads.
- Drunk or impaired driving.
- Road hazards such as potholes, loose gravel, or poor lighting.
Each cause can be prevented with reasonable care, and drivers who fail to share the road should be held accountable.
What types of injuries happen in Gaithersburg motorcycle accidents?
Because motorcycles lack the protective shell of a car, injuries are often catastrophic:
- Traumatic brain injuries, even with a helmet.
- Spinal cord injuries that may lead to paralysis.
- Multiple fractures and broken bones.
- Severe road rash or burns.
- Internal organ injuries or bleeding.
- Permanent disability or wrongful death.
These injuries often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and lifestyle adjustments. Compensation is essential to cover both current and long-term needs.
Can I recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet in Maryland?
Maryland law requires motorcyclists to wear helmets. If you weren’t wearing one, the insurance company may try to argue that you contributed to your injuries. However, you may still be eligible for compensation if the other driver caused the crash. Your recovery could depend on the evidence and how fault is argued in your case, another reason why having a lawyer is so very important.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Maryland?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit in Maryland. Missing this deadline could prevent you from recovering damages. Acting quickly allows your lawyer to gather evidence before it disappears and build the strongest possible case for the compensation you deserve.
What damages can I recover after a motorcycle accident?
You may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical bills, emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, prescriptions.
- Lost income and reduced earning ability.
- Pain and suffering.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage to your motorcycle.
- Loss of consortium for your spouse or family.
Our attorneys carefully document the full scope of your damages so nothing is left out of your motorcycle accident claim.
Who can be held responsible for a motorcycle accident in Gaithersburg?
The at-fault driver is usually responsible, but liability can extend further. Employers may be accountable if the driver was working at the time. Manufacturers can be held liable if a defective part caused the crash. Government entities may share responsibility if poor road maintenance contributed. Identifying every liable party ensures you pursue full compensation.
How do lawyers investigate motorcycle crashes?
We take a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Reviewing police and accident reports.
- Collecting witness statements.
- Subpoenaing phone records if distraction is suspected.
- Inspecting the vehicles for mechanical issues.
- Using accident reconstruction experts to recreate the crash.
This evidence builds a strong case for negotiations or trial.
What should I avoid saying to an insurance company after a motorcycle wreck?
Do not apologize, admit fault, or speculate about how the crash happened. Avoid saying you’re “fine” due to the fact that many motorcycle injuries worsen over time. Never give a recorded statement without legal advice. Let your lawyer communicate with insurers to protect your rights and aggressively advocate for your best interests.
How does Maryland’s contributory negligence rule affect motorcycle accident claims?
Maryland’s contributory negligence law means you could be barred from recovery if you’re found even 1% at fault. Insurance companies often try to use this rule to deny claims, especially in motorcycle cases where they already stereotype riders as reckless thrill-seekers. An experienced lawyer can counter these tactics and fight to prove the driver was solely at fault.
What role does distracted driving play in motorcycle crashes?
Motorcycles are smaller and harder for drivers to see. When a driver is texting or otherwise distracted, they may fail to notice a rider until it’s too late. Distracted driving is a leading cause of collisions at intersections and during lane changes. Proving distraction may involve reviewing cell phone records or surveillance footage.
How are drunk driving motorcycle accidents handled under Maryland law?
Drunk driving is both a criminal and civil matter. While criminal charges punish the impaired driver, a civil lawsuit allows the injured rider to recover damages. In some cases, additional liability may extend to bars or establishments that overserved the driver. Your lawyer will be able to handle every aspect of your case and hold every negligent party responsible.
What should I know about fatal motorcycle accident claims in Gaithersburg?
If your loved one was killed in a motorcycle crash, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. Compensation can include funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, and the emotional impact of the loss. These claims also hold negligent drivers accountable, providing justice alongside financial relief.
How do I choose the best motorcycle accident lawyer in Gaithersburg?
The best lawyer for your case should have proven results, courtroom experience, and a commitment to personalized service. At Goldberg Finnegan, we’ve recovered millions for injured clients, including bikers who have been injured in accidents through no fault of their own. We provide the individual attention that every case deserves, and we don’t let insurers blame riders unfairly.
Contact a Gaithersburg Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Motorcycle crashes can turn life upside down in seconds. We understand that you need more than an insurance settlement — you need justice. At Goldberg Finnegan, we fight for injured riders in Gaithersburg, Montgomery County, and throughout Maryland.
To find out how we can help with your potential motorcycle accident claim, call our Gaithersburg office today or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.
“Great experience from start to finish. Kevin Finnegan was an expert and professional from case intake through final settlement. Extremely skilled and knowledgeable... The whole firm was responsive throughout. Extremely satisfied with how I was treated and believe that Kevin Finnegan was instrumental in obtaining the best possible outcome from my case. I would recommend Goldberg Finnegan without reservation.” – Kevin B., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐