Maryland is known for its beautiful scenery and, as a result, its winding roads. These roads can pose a number of dangers to motorists, especially motorists who are in a hurry. Passing on Maryland’s snaking roads is dangerous, but on occasion, must be done. Motorists should take care when passing to avoid the risk of a Maryland head-on collision or another type of serious car accident.
Drivers should only pass when they have ample opportunity to do so. This means waiting for the right time. A motorist should not try to pass another car or truck unless:
- They can see the other lane clearly enough to know that no other cars are coming;
- They are sure there is ample time to pass before coming to a curve or the end of a passing lane;
- The lines on the road indicate that it is safe (and legal) to pass;
- No intersections are coming up; and
- There are no other vehicles already in the process of passing.
Once a driver has checked to make sure all of the above apply, they should then use their turn signal to indicate to other motorists that they are about to pass. After waiting a few seconds after signaling, motorists should enter the passing lane and accelerate, passing the vehicle as quickly as is safe, before returning to their lane. It is important drivers are courteous when re-entering their lane and do not cut back in too quickly.
Maryland Motorist Killed in Head-On Collision
Earlier this month, one young man was killed in a Maryland head-on accident after a failed attempt to pass a slow-moving motorist. According to a local news report covering the tragic accident, the collision occurred on Route 26, just west of Unionville Road. Evidently, the motorist attempted to pass another car; however, as he entered the passing lane, he was directly in the path of an oncoming semi-truck. The semi-truck driver tried to avoid the collision by veering off onto the shoulder, however, he was unable to so and the two vehicles collided head-on.
The driver of the car was killed as a result of the injuries he sustained in the accident. The truck driver and his passenger were also injured in the crash, but are expected to recover fully. Authorities are investigating the fatal accident, and have determined that the deceased motorist was in a designated passing area at the time of the accident.
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Car Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a Maryland car accident, the dedicated injury lawyers at the law firm of Lebowitz & Mzhen, LLC can help. At our Maryland personal injury law firm, we pride ourselves in standing up for the rights of accident victims. We help our clients by aggressively negotiating with insurance companies in hopes of securing a favorable settlement. And when an insurance company is unwilling to be fair, we will not hesitate to take a case to trial. To learn more about how we can help you pursue a claim for compensation, call 410-654-3600 to schedule a free consultation today.