Seattle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcyclists are Vulnerable (Most Accidents Cause Injuries)

Comprehensive data from federal highway safety officials estimates that 81 percent of motorbike accidents cause physical injuries to the rider. Notably, that is a rate that is far higher than for other road users. Motorcyclists are as much as 25 times more likely to be catastrophically harmed or killed in a crash than are the occupants of full-sized vehicles. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, there were 141 people killed in motorcycle accidents in the state in 2023. Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries reported in Seattle include: 

• Road rash; 
• Rider’s arm; 
• Whiplash; 
• Sprains & strains; 
• Torn ligaments; 
• Fractured or broken bones; 
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs); 
• Loss of limb (amputation); and
• Spinal cord damage. 

Your Guide to Motorcycle Accident Liability in Washington State

Every motorcycle accident in Seattle requires a thorough investigation by an experienced lawyer. Who is responsible for a motorcycle wreck? The answer depends on fault—and fault in Washington State is based on the legal theory of negligence. Negligence is the failure to take due care. Some examples include distracted driving, speeding, and unsafe lane changes. In many cases, negligent drivers are held liable for motorcycle accidents. Though, other parties, including trucking companies and motorcycle manufacturers, could be legally responsible as well.

Motorcyclists should know that Washington law uses a comparative fault standard (RCW § 4.22.005). You can still recover compensation even if you are partially at fault for your own accident. With that being said, your financial recovery will be reduced by your degree of fault. Held 20 percent liable for a motorcycle crash in Seattle because you were speeding? You will be legally responsible for 20 percent of your own damages. As Washington is a pure comparative negligence state, an injured motorcyclist can bring a claim even if he or she is 99 percent at fault for a crash. 

A Three-Year Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Injury Claims

You have three years to file a motorcycle accident injury lawsuit in Washington State (RCW 4.16.080). What happens if you fail to file a claim in a timely manner? Most likely, you will lose out on your chance to take legal action at all. Three years may seem like a lot of time to get started. However, you do not want to fall behind an insurance company—especially in a complicated case. Do not miss your chance to get justice and compensation. Protect your rights by speaking to a Seattle motorcycle crash lawyer as soon as possible. 

Fighting for the Maximum Compensation After a Motorcycle Wreck in Seattle

Motorcycle accidents can cause devastating, life-altering trauma. It is imperative that injured victims are able to secure every dollar of financial compensation that is available under the law. You cannot trust any insurance company to step up and willingly come forward with a full and fair settlement offer. Our Seattle, WA motorcycle accident lawyers are standing by, ready to help you fight for the maximum compensation. You may be entitled to get money damages for: 

• Motorcycle repairs; 
• Emergency medical support; 
• Hospital bills and related costs; 
• Medication or medical equipment; 
• Long-term medical needs; 
• Loss of current and future earnings; 
• Pain and suffering; 
• Mental anguish; 
• Physical disability; 
• Reduced quality of life; and
• Wrongful death of a close family member. 

The Walthew Law Firm is the Premier Firm for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Seattle

Motorcycle accident victims need an experienced advocate on their side. At The Walthew Law Firm, we have been fighting for injured victims in Seattle and Western Washington for many decades. Our team has the specialized expertise needed to take on motorcycle accident injury cases. With millions in compensation recovered on behalf of our clients, our team puts a priority on justice. We are proactive and results-focused. Our Seattle motorcycle injury lawyer is ready to: 

• Conduct a free, comprehensive, and confidential review of your case; 
• Investigate your motorcycle accident—gathering relevant evidence; 
• Represent you in any settlement discussions with insurance adjusters; and
• Fight tirelessly to help you secure the maximum financial compensation. 

Seattle Motorcycle Accidents: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is the Right Time to Contact a Seattle Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

There is never any good reason to wait to speak to a reliable legal professional. You should consult with a Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash. Do not rely on an insurance company to handle things fairly. Early consultation can ensure that your legal rights are protected and that all relevant evidence is preserved. Our Seattle motorcycle crash lawyer can help. 

Are You Required to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet in Washington?

Yes. In Washington State, all motorcycle riders and all motorcycle passengers are required to wear a helmet approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Unlike in some other jurisdictions, the Washington motorcycle helmet law applies regardless of age. If you are involved in a crash without a helmet, you can still bring a personal injury claim. However, the defense may try to use the helmet violation against you to reduce your compensation. 

Will the Insurance Company Try to “Stereotype” Me?

Unfortunately, it is a possibility. Too many motorcyclists face unfair stereotypes from the big insurance companies. Indeed, insurance companies may sometimes employ stereotypes about motorcyclists being reckless to minimize or deny claims. Given the challenge, it is crucial that injured motorcyclists in Seattle are aware of the possibility and ready to present evidence to fight back against any negative, unfair stereotypes. 

What is the Likely Value of My Motorcycle Injury Claim?

It depends. Motorcycle accident injury claims in Seattle are not valued on a “one-size-fits-all” basis. Every case is different. An experienced attorney can review liability, damage, and the insurance policies that are in play to help you determine the likely value of your claim. Do not settle a motorcycle accident claim for less. Your lawyer will help you fight to maximize your compensation. 

Should I Agree to Settle My Personal Injury Case?

Deciding whether to settle a personal injury case depends on the settlement offer, your recovery progress, and your future needs. It is important not to rush into an agreement with the defense/insurer before fully understanding the extent of your injuries and other losses. 

Contact Our Seattle Motorcycle Accident Injury Lawyers for a Free Case Review

At The Walthew Law Firm, our Seattle motorcycle accident attorneys are standing by, ready to get started on your case. Do not try to take on an aggressive insurance company alone after a bad motorcycle wreck. Contact us now for your free, no obligation initial appointment. From our law office in Seattle, we take on motorcycle accident injury claims in King County and all across the wider region, including in Tacoma, Everett, Bellevue, Kirkland, and Renton.