Maryland residents can benefit greatly from a living will. As technology has evolved, the way a person creates a living will has changed as well. Final wishes are now not only being discussed with friends and family, but posted on social networks as well.
A recent blog post by an avid cyclist has brought an even newer approach to this topic. Out of concern for other cyclists and wanting to raise awareness to automobile vs. bicycle collisions, he posted his will online, which included very specific wishes. One of his main wishes is for there to be a full investigation should he be involved in a cycling accident and for the findings to be released to his family.
This topic is especially meaningful to this cyclist because of the death of two dear friends last year. He has stated in a released letter that the only accidents involving bicycles that receive police response are the ones involving death or near death, and he hopes to change that. Posting his will on his blog with such specific wishes could be an important precautionary measure and lead to an increased focus on bicycle accident investigations.
Although you may have very specific instructions and wishes in a living will, makes sense to ensure that the document will hold up in court should it need to be put to use. In this situation, it is best to be proactive in learning the Maryland state laws and procedures regarding the making of a will, and a professional consultation might be in order as well. Writing a will can be a smooth process as long as you know the requirements and follow the correct steps.
Source: International Business Times, “Flawed NYPD Bike Accident Investigations Prompt Cyclists, Pedestrians To Post Living Wills Online,” Christopher Zara, March 27, 2013