Seattle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents regularly leave individuals with major injuries to contend with. Unfortunately, this also typically means significant financial setbacks as well. At Washington Injury Law, our team is ready to step in when you need a Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer by your side. Our Seattle personal injury lawyers have a strong track record of success handling complicated injury claims in and around the Seattle area, and we want to hear from you as soon as possible.
Why Choose Washington Injury Law for Your Claim?
- We know you have choices when it comes to your injury claim, but the team at Washington Injury Law is going to give you undivided attention as they sort through every aspect of your case.
- We have a strong track record of success handling complex injury claims throughout Washington, and we have helped clients receive major settlements and jury verdicts.
- We understand vehicle accident and motorcycle accident claims in Seattle, and we will fight tenaciously to recover the compensation you are entitled to from the negligent parties.
Motorcycle Accidents and Liability in Seattle
Determining liability (negligence) after a motorcycle accident can be tough due to the various factors involved. In many cases, these collisions happen due to the actions of other drivers who may fail to see motorcycles, follow traffic laws, or drive responsibly. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers using their phones, eating, or engaging in other distractions can easily miss seeing a motorcycle.
- Speeding: Excessive speed or operating too fast for road conditions reduces how long a driver has to react to a motorcycle on the road.
- Failure to yield: Many motorcycle crashes happen at intersections when drivers fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol or drugs impair a driver’s ability to make safe decisions and react appropriately.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris (both natural and manmade), and uneven road surfaces can be particularly hazardous for motorcyclists.
To establish liability, it is important to obtain evidence such as police reports, eyewitness statements, and any available video footage.
Will You File a Lawsuit or Work With the Insurance Carrier?
After a motorcycle accident, you may wonder whether you should file a lawsuit or attempt to resolve your claim through the insurance company. This decision often depends on the specifics of your case, including the severity of your injuries and the willingness of the insurance company to offer a fair settlement.
- Working with the Insurance Carrier. In many cases, starting with an insurance claim is advisable. Your lawyer can help you negotiate with the insurance company to secure a settlement that covers your total losses. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, so having legal representation is crucial to helping you receive fair compensation.
- Filing a Lawsuit. If the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement, or if there are disputes over liability, filing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary. A lawsuit in civil court could help you pursue the compensation you deserve through the court system. Your lawyer will prepare your case, gather evidence, and represent you in court to fight for your rights.
Compensation for a Seattle Motorcycle Accident
Victims of motorcycle accidents in Seattle may be entitled to various types of compensation, which are typically divided into economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
These are quantifiable financial losses that you have incurred as a result of the accident. They include:
- Medical Expenses. This covers the cost of emergency room visits, hospital stays, doctor visits, and any other needed care until you are better.
- Lost Wages. If your injuries prevent you from carrying out your job duties, you may be able to claim compensation for the income you have lost during your recovery period.
- Future Lost Earnings. If your injuries result in a long-term or permanent disability, compensation for future lost earnings could be available.
- Property Damage. Paying for the repair or replacement of your bike can be costly. This also includes any other property damaged in the incident.
Non-Economic Damages
These damages are more subjective and are designed to help with the non-financial impact of the collision on your life. They include:
- Pain and Suffering. This accounts for the physical pain and/or psychological and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life. If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.
- Emotional Distress. Severe accidents can lead to psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, for which you can seek compensation.
How Much Compensation is Available for a Successful Claim?
The amount of compensation you can receive for a motorcycle accident claim varies based on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the level of negligence, and the impact of the accident on your day-to-day life. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Seattle will work to maximize your compensation by thoroughly documenting your losses and negotiating aggressively on your behalf.
How Long Do You Have to File Your Claim?
Motorcycle crash victims in Seattle and throughout Washington have a specific time frame with which to file these claims. State law requires that personal injury claims get filed within three years from the date the injury occurs, with few exceptions. Failing to file the claim within this specific three-year time frame will likely result in the claim getting dismissed, leaving the motorcycle crash victim unable to recover money for their losses
Call a Seattle Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
If you have sustained an injury in a motorcycle collision caused by the reckless or negligence of another party in Seattle, the team at Washington Injury Law is here to help. We know what it takes to handle every aspect of these claims, including an investigation, negotiations with other parties, and even a jury trial if necessary. When you need a Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer, you can contact us by calling 206-960-4522 or clicking here to fill out our contact form.