Motorcycles offer a fun and fuel-efficient way to navigate the roads, especially in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. But along with the freedom that riding provides comes responsibility. If you are a motorcyclist, understanding Washington State motorcycle laws is essential.
At Washington Injury Law, we’ve seen firsthand how following or ignoring motorcycle laws can make all the difference in the outcome of a crash. Whether you’re a seasoned biker or just getting started, our Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer explains what you need to know.
Washington State Motorcycle Laws That Every Biker Should Know
Motorcycle laws in Washington State are designed to keep you and everyone on the road safe. While most people are not aware of it, these laws reflect the reality that motorcyclists face more significant risks than other road users in the event of a crash.
Under the Washington Revised Code, the following is a list of requirements all bikers must follow:
- All motorcyclists must wear DOT-approved helmets in good condition, along with eye protection.
- Motorcycles carrying passengers must have a passenger seat and footrests.
- Riders under the age of 18 are required to pass an approved motorcycle education course.
- Passengers must be at least five years old to ride.
- Headlights and taillights must remain on at all times during operation.
- Handlebars may not exceed 30 inches above the seat height.
- Motorcycles must have both left and right mirrors installed.
- Turn signals are mandatory on all motorcycles.
Additionally, getting your motorcycle license in WA involves a multi-step process. First, under Washington State Department of Licensing guidelines, you must pass a permit-level knowledge and skills test. Then, after receiving your motorcycle permit, which is valid for 180 days, you will need to pass endorsement-level written and skills exams to earn a full endorsement. While riding with a permit, you may not carry passengers or operate your motorcycle at night.
When Bikers Fail To Follow Motorcycle Laws In Washington State, Serious Injuries Can Result
In addition to the above motorcycle laws in Washington State, bikers are also subject to the same rules of the road as other motorists. This includes prohibitions against speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence, and other behaviors that put you and others at risk.
When either motorcyclists or other motor vehicle drivers fail to follow traffic safety rules and requirements, it increases the likelihood of a crash. The National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) shares some troubling statistics:
- Over 6,000 motorcyclists die in crashes each year in the U.S.
- While they represent less than five percent of all drivers, motorcycle accidents in the U.S. represent nearly 20 percent of all fatal traffic crashes.
- Motorcyclists are more than 20 times more likely to suffer fatal injuries than drivers or passengers in motor vehicles.
- Roughly 35 percent of motorcyclists in fatal crashes did not have a valid motorcycle license.
- Following motorcycle laws in Washington State and wearing a helmet can reduce your risk of debilitating and potentially fatal injuries by more than half.
Motorcyclists are at a greater risk because they lack the protective shell that cars provide. Even minor mistakes can have catastrophic consequences. That’s why safety precautions, like wearing helmets, having a valid license, and following other Washington State motorcycle laws, are so important. Motorcycle laws exist because the cost of non-compliance is simply too high.
Injuries That Can Happen Due To Not Following Washington State Motorcycle Laws
Motorcyclists have no seat belts, airbags, or protective frames. It is just you, your bike, and the open road. Following motorcycle laws in Washington State helps protect you and prevent serious injuries that can happen in crashes, which include:
- Concussions, skull fractures, and potential traumatic brain injuries (TBIs);
- Road rash or burn injuries due to contact with hot metal parts or liquids;
- Deep lacerations and puncture wounds due to broken glass and twisted metal;
- Fractured vertebrae, whiplash, and other back or neck injuries;
- Crushing injuries and loss of limbs;
- Damage to internal organs;
- Spinal cord injuries.
Injuries caused by reckless drivers or failing to follow Washington State motorcycle laws can impact your health, your finances, and your quality of life for a long time after. At Washington Injury Law, we protect your rights and help you get the compensation you need to recover.
How to Protect Your Rights After a Motorcycle Accident in Washington State
Motorcycle accidents often happen due to negligence on the part of motorists. However, failure to follow Washington State motorcycle laws increases the risks and could impact your rights in a claim.
Being partially at fault or violating state laws is likely to result in denials from insurers.
However, you may still be entitled to compensation through the Washington State Civil Court, even if you were partly to blame or failed to follow state motorcycle laws. To protect yourself and your rights in a claim, follow these steps:
- Report any motorcycle accident you are involved in to the police immediately, regardless of the seeming severity of your injuries.
- Exchange contact information with others involved and provide basic information to police, but avoid elaborating or speculating on the cause of the accident.
- Do not admit liability or that you violated any Washington State motorcycle laws;
- Take photos at the scene, if you are able, and get contact info for witnesses.
- Seek medical care, follow all doctor instructions, and do not return to work or other activities until cleared to do so.
Contact Our Experienced Seattle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Help
Failing to follow motorcycle accident laws in Washington State increases the risk of a crash and potentially life-threatening injuries. At Washington Injury Law, we provide trusted, local legal representation to clients in these cases.
Even if you are partially at fault for not following state laws, we fight to hold reckless drivers accountable and get the maximum compensation you need to recover.
Before making statements to insurers or taking other actions that could jeopardize your rights in an injury claim, contact our office. Request a consultation with our experienced Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer today.