Riding a motorcycle through Seattle is an incredible experience: the open road, the fresh air, and the breathtaking views of Puget Sound. However, there is a real risk of becoming involved in a crash. Accidents happen far too often between unpredictable drivers, heavy traffic, and rainy weather.
If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, your life can be upended in a moment. Suddenly, you are facing medical bills, lost wages, and insurance companies that don’t seem to care about your well-being.
At the Law Offices of Justin R. Boland, PLLC, we want to take some of that burden off your shoulders. Let our team of skilled legal professionals fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Reach out to our Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer today if you feel the crash could have been prevented.
Motorcycle Accidents Are Dangerous
Unlike cars, SUVs, and trucks, motorcycles do not have safety features such as seat belts, airbags, or protective frames. Even with a helmet and the right gear, riders are vulnerable to serious injuries.
Unfortunately, in the event of an accident, these riders will often experience serious injuries. Broken bones, road rash, or concussions are common. However, in more severe cases, spinal cord or traumatic brain injuries are possible as well.
According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), 448 bike crashes happened in King County last year.
Why do they occur? Many times, there are a variety of factors that can lead to motorcycle accidents, such as:
- Distracted driving
- Failure to yield
- Speeding
- Intoxicated driving
The above are just some of the factors resulting from negligence. In these situations, the injured party may be able to recover compensation from the other person or entity.
Washington's Motorcycle Laws and Your Case
Washington has a few motorcycle laws designed to protect riders, but they can also play a role in how your accident case unfolds.
Washington is one of the many states that require all motorcyclists and passengers to wear a DOT-approved helmet while riding. But what happens if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of your accident?
The insurance company might argue that you were partially responsible for your injuries. However, this doesn’t mean you lose your right to compensation. While failing to wear a helmet might impact claims related to head injuries, it will not affect compensation for other injuries like broken bones, road rash, or spinal cord damage.
The pure comparative fault rule operates in Washington. This means that even if you were partially at fault for your accident, you can still recover compensation. Keep in mind that your total payout will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Insurance companies love to take advantage of this rule. Many times, they often exaggerate a rider’s level of fault to reduce their payout after a motorcycle crash.
Washington law gives you three years from the date of your motorcycle accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. If the accident resulted in the wrongful death of a loved one, the same three-year statute applies.
While three years may sound like plenty of time, you will want to act sooner rather than later.
Every motorcycle accident case is different, but Washington’s laws can impact how your claim is handled. Insurance companies will try to use these laws against you whenever possible, so having a strong legal advocate on your side can make all the difference.
A knowledgeable Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer can help you:
- Fight back against unfair helmet-related claim reductions
- Minimize your percentage of fault to maximize compensation
- Prove the other driver’s negligence, even in complex lane-splitting cases
- Ensure you meet legal deadlines and file within the statute of limitations
Understanding Washington’s motorcycle laws is important, but you shouldn’t have to figure them all out on your own. If you’ve been in an accident, getting professional legal help can make sure you don’t leave money on the table or fall victim to insurance tactics that are designed to minimize your claim.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Seattle Motorcycle Accident Attorney
What Compensation Can You Receive?
A motorcycle accident can turn your entire life upside down. Medical bills start piling up, you might be out of work for weeks, and your once-reliable bike could be totaled. On top of all that, you have to deal with the stress of financial uncertainty and pain that lingers long after the accident.
You deserve full and fair compensation for how the crash has affected your life. Even a minor motorcycle accident can lead to serious injuries, and medical expenses add up fast. Your compensation from taking legal action may be able to cover:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgeries and hospitalizations
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Medications and medical equipment
- Future medical care
Unfortunately, when you are injured, it can also put your paycheck on hold. Money can’t turn back time, but it can help keep you afloat while you focus on healing. The goal of a legal settlement or verdict is to make sure you’re not left struggling financially because of someone else’s negligence. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for:
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Lost business opportunities
Motorcycle accidents are traumatic, and the emotional toll can be just as overwhelming as the physical pain. Compensation for pain and suffering accounts for:
- Physical pain
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Many bike crashes can result in the death of a loved one. No amount of money can bring them back. However, a wrongful death claim can provide financial security and hold the responsible party accountable.
If you lost a loved one in a crash, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship
Motorcycle accidents are life-changing, but you have help in this fight. A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer in Seattle will handle the legal battle, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for every dollar you’re owed.
Let a Seattle Motorcycle Crash Attorney Fight for Justice
Your focus should be healing from the accident, not battling insurance companies. With a skilled attorney by your side, you can rest assured that your rights are protected, your voice is heard, and your future is secure.
At the Law Offices of Justin R. Boland, PLLC, we are ready to take your case. Your recovery should be your priority as we handle your claim.
If you’ve been injured, reach out to a Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer today for a free consultation.
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