In motorcycle accidents where two people are on the bike, the passenger often bears the brunt of the injuries. This is in part because the passenger is more likely to be thrown from the bike than the main operator is. A passenger is also more likely to be riding without a helmet if there is not an extra one.

Passengers who have been hurt while riding on the back of a motorcycle have the same rights as any other motorcycle operators. You may be able to recoup compensation from the at-fault driver if you suffered any of the following:

  • Head injury after being thrown off the motorcycle
  • Broken bones from hitting the pavement
  • Crushing injuries or burns from being trapped by the motorcycle
  • Road rash from being dragged along the ground

Passengers also have one additional right that the main operator does not. Speed, alcohol, driver inexperience, and driver error are common contributors to motorcycle accidents in Maryland. An operator who contributed to the cause of an accident is no longer eligible to recoup damages for his or her injuries. Any passengers, however, may still be able to receive compensation because the error was not theirs. In fact, a passenger may be able to request damages from the motorcycle operator for those injuries.

If you’ve been hurt while riding on the back of a friend’s motorcycle, or if you have lost a family member to a Maryland motorcycle accident, you may need help getting the compensation you deserve. Call Nickelsporn and Lundin at 800-875-9700 for a free consultation or to order your complimentary copy of our book, 10 Tips to Get the Maximum Compensation After a Maryland Auto Accident.