While motorcycles offer a thrilling way to navigate the streets of Seattle, they also present a heightened risk. Despite making up only 3% of vehicles on Washington roads, motorcycle accident statistics reveal a stark disparity: motorcyclists are 22 times more likely to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled. In 2022, the Washington Department of Traffic (WSDOT) recorded 1,955 motorcycle accidents, out of which 514 sustained severe injury. In the following year, the accident fatality rate hit an alarming peak, with the Washington Traffic Safety Commission (WTSC) documenting 138 fatal motorcycle accident cases.
If you or a loved one was injured in a Seattle motorcycle crash, our team at Van Law can help. We can review your case at no cost and listen to your version of events with compassion and kindness. We serve motorists in the Seattle area, King County, and across Washington state.
We never stop fighting for you. Our Seattle, WA motorcycle accident lawyer can explain each step of the financial recovery process. We can also explain Washington law, how it impacts your case, and your right to recover damages, including lost wages, medical treatment costs, and pain and suffering.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents In Seattle
The leading cause of motorcycle accidents is drivers making a lefthand turn while motorcyclists are going straight or passing the car, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data. Other causes may include distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, unsafe lane changes, poor road conditions, and unsafe weather conditions.
Whether your accident was caused by a driver making a left turn or something else entirely, our personal injury lawyer serving Seattle can get to the bottom of it. Our investigation can thoroughly cover every aspect of your case.
For a free legal consultation with a motorcycle accidents lawyer serving Seattle, call (360) 262-1792
For a free legal consultation with a motorcycle accidents lawyer serving Seattle, call (360) 200-0000
Common Injuries In Seattle Motorcycle Accidents
Having worked with numerous motorcycle accident victims, the Seattle attorneys at Van Law Firm have observed a pattern of injuries that often arise from these types of accidents:
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Burn injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
Without the protection of a vehicle’s structure, motorcyclists are vulnerable to multiple (and often severe) injuries in accidents. The most common injuries are to the limbs and head. Injuries to the spine, chest, and abdomen are less frequent but can be just as serious, if not more so. The extensive medical treatment typically required only underscores the importance of legal representation to help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Seattle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me (360) 200-0000
How Evidence From Your Motorcycle Accident Can Impact Your Case
Your case file will tell the story of your accident. Our team and the at-fault driver’s representatives rely on evidence when determining the accident’s cause, possibly including:
- Official police report
- Medical records
- Injury photos
- Accident scene photos
- Eyewitness statements
- Expert witness statements
We can also ask for your statement describing the toll the accident has taken on your life and family. Our experienced Seattle motorcycle accident attorneys can use the evidence they compile to fight for your financial settlement.
Seattle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me(360) 262-1792
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Common Types Of Compensation We Can Pursue for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Economic damages after a motorcycle accident are often easy to document with evidence like bills and photographs. These damages could include:
- Medical costs
- Property damage
- Current lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Property destruction
- Diminished property value
Non-economic damages can be more difficult to put a monetary number on. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can determine an appropriate value for your:
- Mental anguish
- Physical disability
- Emotional trauma
- Pain and suffering
- Physical disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death damages, if applicable
Part of our investigative process is validating the financial value of both economic and non-economic damages we demand on your behalf. Along with the evidence that proves the at-fault driver’s liability, we can collect bills, receipts, and estimates that substantiate your compensation request.
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What About Punitive Damages?
In Washington, the law doesn’t allow courts to award punitive damages in motorcycle accident cases, no matter how reckless or malicious the defendant acted. A motorcycle accident victim is thus only able to recover compensatory damages (i.e. medical expenses and lost income). Given this, you need an attorney by your side who can accurately assess all your losses, then help you get the most compensation out of what you’re allowed to under the law.
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Pursuing Damages After a Washington Motorcycle Accident
All road users, including motorcycle riders, have what is legally termed as a “duty of care” towards each other. That means everyone on the road has a responsibility to act in a way that doesn’t endanger others. Negligence occurs when a driver violates their duty of care. And if you suffer an injury as a result, you have the right to pursue damages.
Washington’s fault-based insurance system means the person who caused your motorcycle accident is liable for your damages. You can file a claim with your insurance company, who will then pursue reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance and pay for your damages up to your policy limits. You can also do the same as a third party with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, if they don’t have insurance, you may need to resort to suing them directly.
Don’t let a motorcycle accident derail your life—contact our Seattle office today to discuss your case. See how we can help you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you are entitled to. Request your free consultation here.
How a Lawyer Can Help With Motorcycle Accident Compensation Negotiations
Many motorcycle accident cases are settled during negotiations. Your lawyer can:
- Accurately assess your damages
- Create and send a demand letter
- Field settlement offers and negotiate with insurance companies
- Weigh the feasibility of each offer
Negotiating your case can involve several rounds of back-and-forth offers and counteroffers. The final decision to accept or reject a settlement offer is always yours to make. Our legal team can help you understand your options, then guide you in making a well-informed decision.
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Why Should I Choose Van Law For My Motorcycle Accident Case?
Building a personal injury or wrongful death case is an involved process. If our Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer represents you, we can handle every aspect of your case. This includes all verbal, written, and electronic communication.
Additionally, we can do all of the following to further your case:
- Obtain your official motorcycle accident report
- Assess your potential financial recovery
- Explain Washington laws that apply to your case
- Investigate your accident and collect evidence
- Complete and submit insurance/motorcycle accident claim forms
- Handle all court paperwork and filings
- Provide updates on the progress of your case
We can also handle the negotiation process from start to finish and fight hard to achieve the best possible outcome for you. If an acceptable settlement agreement cannot be made, we aren’t afraid to file a lawsuit for the compensation you need and deserve.
Reviews and Recommendations for our Results-Driven Law Firm
When our past personal injury clients reflect on their experience with our team at Van Law, they often leave glowing reviews:
- “I would recommend them to anyone. Everyone I have talked to there has been very friendly. I would give them a 10 out of 10.” – Ethan G.
- “I got referred here by a friend and I absolutely made the right choice in choosing this law firm. Thank you for always helping and being very professional. Customer service exceeded my expectations. Thank you again. Recommend 100%.” – Aidee G.
Find more case results and reviews like these on our testimonials page and see why you can depend on our law firm for legal care and support when you need it most.
Filing Deadlines and Their Importance to Your Motorcycle Accident Case
You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, according to RCW § 4.16.080. It also generally gives you three years from the date of a loved one’s passing to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
As stated, many personal injury cases are often settled without a lawsuit. However, you’ll want to have the option of a suit if a fair settlement can’t be reached in negotiations. You won’t be able to file your lawsuit if the statute of limitations is expired.
Reach out to Van Law Firm as soon as possible after your car crash. Our law firm can work hard to meet the appropriate filing deadline and protect your right to take your case to court, if necessary.
Call Today for Your Free Motorcycle Accident Consultation
At Van Law, we’re proud to serve the people of Seattle, Washington. If you or a loved one was injured in a recent motorcycle accident, we can help. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Seattle can prove the cause of your accident and take on the at-fault driver and their insurance company to pursue both justice and compensation on your behalf.
Get started fighting for financial compensation by contacting our client-focused team at Van Law today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What types of motorcycle accidents do your personal injury lawyers handle?
Our Seattle motorcycle accident attorneys handle all types of motorcycle crashes, including head-on collisions, rear-end collisions, lane-splitting accidents, left-turn accidents, motorcycle-on-motorcycle collisions, motorcycle-on-car collisions, and intersection crashes.
What compensation can I recover in a Seattle motorcycle accident?
Depending on your case, you may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages. This includes compensation for past and future medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damage, and other losses.
The exact amount of compensation you can recover depends on the severity of your injuries, fault distribution, and whether you choose to settle or go to trial. While insurance companies often try to settle personal injury claims quickly, going to trial can often lead to higher damage awards. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Seattle can help you understand your legal options and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
When should I reach out to a Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer?
The statute of limitations for motorcycle accident claims in Washington is three years from the incident. However, the sooner you file, the better. Over time, evidence may get lost, witnesses might forget details, and it may become more challenging to get the compensation you deserve.
What if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident?
The state of Washington uses a pure comparative negligence model. So even if you share some responsibility for the accident, you may still be eligible for compensation, though it may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
How much does it cost to hire a Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer?
At Van Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us any attorney’s fees unless we win your case. The fee is a percentage of the settlement we obtain for you, which we’ll discuss upfront so you know exactly what to expect.
We also offer free consultations. This is where you can openly discuss your case with a legal professional. We’ll then assess its potential and chart the path forward—at zero financial risk to you.
Besides motorcycle accidents, what else can your Seattle lawyers help me with?
While we do serve victims of motorcycle collisions, our Seattle personal injury lawyers have also helped recover compensation for clients in:
- Car accidents;
- Truck accidents;
- Bicycle accidents;
- Pedestrian accidents;
- Slip and fall accidents;
- Construction accidents;
- Dog bites;
- Medical malpractice;
- Premises liability;
- Nursing home abuse;
- Wrongful death.
If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, no matter the type of case, reach out to Van Law Firm. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to getting you the maximum compensation you deserve—even if that means taking your case before a jury.
No obligation consultations are always free.
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