Maryland Car Accident Attorney Blog
As smaller and harder to see citizens of the road, bicyclists are often in danger from the risk of drivers attempting to pass other vehicles without checking for oncoming traffic. This risk is compounded when intoxicated drivers are behind the wheel. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 11,654 people died in accidents caused by alcohol-impaired driving in 2020. Driving under the influence of alcohol impairs an individual’s reasoning ability and response time. Even just a small amount of alcohol in the bloodstream can inhibit visual functions, impair the ability to multitask, and respond to changes in driving conditions or emergency situations. All of these factors can contribute to an intoxicated driver’s poor judgment in passing or inability to check their surroundings carefully for other motorists and pedestrians.
According to a recent article, two victims, 48 and 57 year old men, died and three others were injured when they were struck by an intoxicated driver. Of the deceased, one was pronounced dead at the scene and the other died from their injuries in the hospital. The victims were all bicyclists participating in a charity bike ride when the collision occurred. Two have been treated and released from the hospital, but the third remains in serious condition.
The accident happened when a truck in front of the driver began to slow down. Rather than slow down or stop, the driver swerved around the truck and into the lane of oncoming traffic, where the driver hit a group of bicyclists. Officers say the road on which the accident occurred is straight and there are no obstructions and noted that the intoxicated driver did not appear to look for or see the bicyclists before attempting to pass. The driver has been charged with several counts of driving while intoxicated and is being held on a $1 million bond.
How Long do I Have to Bring my Claim in Maryland?
When someone is injured or killed in a road accident, legal claims may be the furthest thing from a victim or their family’s mind. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver in Maryland, know that you have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim or a personal injury lawsuit. However, a good personal injury attorney will need ample time to prepare your case and be able to help you through every step of bringing your claim. Do not delay reaching out to an experienced attorney to navigate your questions and concerns during this difficult time.
Contact a Maryland Car Accident Attorney
If you or someone you know was a victim of a car crash with an intoxicated driver and you’re ready to bring your personal injury or wrongful death claim or talk about your options, reach out to the attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen to discuss your situation. Our attorneys are experienced in handling personal injury and wrongful death cases stemming from car accidents and intoxicated drivers. Contact Lebowitz & Mzhen for a free consultation today at 800-654-1949.