Motorcyclists appreciate the breathtaking scenery and open roads surrounding our area, but motorcycle accidents in Washington State are, unfortunately, common and can leave victims suffering devastating injuries.
Wearing a helmet reduces the risks. Are you required to wear a motorcycle helmet in Washington State? Our Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer explains what you need to know about Washington’s motorcycle helmet laws, injuries that can happen when not wearing one, and your rights to compensation in an injury claim.
Washington State Motorcycle Laws
Washington State motorcycle laws are outlined under Title 46 of the revised code. They are designed to protect riders, their passengers, and other road users, ensure public safety, and prevent accidents and injuries.
Whether you are a new or seasoned rider, adhering to state traffic laws reduces your crash risks. The following are laws every Washington motorcyclist needs to be aware of:
- What Legally Defines a Motorcycle (RCW 46.04.330): Not all two-wheeled vehicles qualify as motorcycles. Washington State motorcycle laws outline the requirements for classification.
- Motorcycle Endorsement (RCW 46.20.500): To legally ride a motorcycle in Washington State, you must have a valid motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license.
- Insurance Requirements (RCW 46.30.020): Washington motorcyclists must carry liability insurance in case of an accident.
- Passenger Requirements (RCW 46.61.610) If you have a passenger on your bike, your motorcycle must be equipped with a designated seat and footrest.
- Full Lane Use and Lane Splitting (RCW 46.61.608) Lane splitting (riding between lanes) is prohibited in Washington. Motorcycles are entitled to full use of a lane, and other vehicles must respect their space.
- DUI Laws for Motorcyclists (RCW 46.61.502): Driving while under the influence leads to serious penalties, including fines, license suspension, and jail time.
- Motorcycle Helmet Law (RCW 46.37.530): Motorcyclists and passengers in Washington State must wear an approved safety helmet.
Motorcycle Helmet Laws In Washington State
It is not enough to just wear any helmet. Under Washington State motorcycle helmet laws, helmets must be approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), which means:
- They have padding at least one inch thick;
- Chin straps have strong, sturdy rivets that won’t easily break in a crash;
- The helmet has a label indicating DOT compliance;
- It absorbs impact effectively, protecting the motorcyclist’s head and neck in the event of a crash.
Washington State motorcycle helmet laws apply to all motorcycles, scooters, and mopeds operating on public roads. Not wearing one can result in fines and citations. It also significantly increases the risk of potentially fatal injuries in a motorcycle crash.
Why Wearing a Motorcycle Helmet In Washington State Is Essential
Helmets are not just a legal requirement. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that wearing one significantly reduces the risk of fatalities among motorcyclists and their passengers. Serious injuries can happen due to not wearing a motorcycle helmet in Washington State, which include:
- Concussions and skull fractures: These require immediate medical care and can take long months to recover from.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head trauma due to a motorcycle accident in Washington State can impact the brain, causing personality changes, long-term memory loss, and potentially permanent disabilities.
- Facial injuries: Without a helmet, you are more likely to suffer significant facial injuries, including broken jaws, teeth, cheekbones, and nose fractures.
- Severe lacerations: Road rash and deep cuts due to broken glass can cause scarring and life-threatening infections.
- Spinal cord injuries: This could leave you suffering from paralysis or chronic pain.
Motorcycle helmets protect you if a crash happens. Beyond safety, violating motorcycle helmet laws in Washington State can result in heavy fines and higher insurance premiums. It can also leave you paying out of pocket for medical expenses and other costs.
How Violating Helmet Laws Impacts Your Rights In A Washington State Motorcycle Accident Claim
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Washington State and were not wearing an approved helmet or following other motorcycle laws, it could impact your rights in a claim and the amount of compensation available. Insurers or legal representatives of the at-fault driver may argue that:
- Not wearing a helmet is at least partially to blame for your injuries;
- You knowingly assumed the risks by not following Washington State motorcycle helmet laws;
- Even if the other driver is clearly to blame, the amount you may be entitled to will be reduced due to not following state laws.
Under Washington State comparative negligence laws (RCW 4.22.005), you still may be entitled to compensation, even if you were not wearing a helmet or violated other motorcycle laws. To protect your rights in a claim, get our experienced Washington State motorcycle accident lawyer on your side.
What to Do If a Motorcycle Accident in Washington State Happens
Take these steps to protect your rights if a motorcycle accident in Washington State happens, regardless of whether you were wearing a helmet at the time:
- Call 911: Report the accident immediately to the police and request a copy of their crash report once it is completed.
- Document the scene: If you are able, take photos of the scene, the damage to your motorcycle, and your injuries.
- Get medical attention for your injuries: Regardless of how severe they seem or any symptoms you suffer, get medical care. Not doing so can jeopardize your health and your rights in a claim.
- Get trusted legal help: Before making any statements about the crash or accepting any settlements from insurance, contact our experienced Washington State motorcycle accident lawyer to protect your rights to compensation.
Request A Consultation With Our Washington Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
Motorcycle helmet laws in Washington State are designed to keep motorcyclists safe. However, serious and potentially life-threatening injuries can happen in a crash, regardless of whether or not you were wearing a helmet at the time.
Washington Injury Law has the experience and skill needed to protect your rights in a claim. We provide professional legal representation and fight to get you the maximum compensation for your losses. To request a free consultation, contact our Seattle motorcycle accident attorney today.