Seattle Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Riding a motorcycle in Washington can be fun and it can help you save a lot of money on gas each month, but few people realize that it can also be extremely dangerous. Despite all the precautions motorcyclists take and safety training they undergo, they are unable to prevent accidents that are caused by negligent or reckless motorists. Without the protection of a steel frame, airbag, and seatbelt, motorcycle riders often suffer catastrophic injuries or death if a crash occurs. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a Washington motorcycle crash, please contact an experienced Seattle traffic accident lawyer to discuss your legal rights and options.
Washington Motorcycle Accidents Statistics
According to the 2009 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) Washington Crash Facts:
- 69 people were killed in Washington motorcycle accidents.
- 60 of those fatalities involved a motorcyclist who was wearing a helmet.
- 14 percent of all Washington fatal injury accident victims are motorcyclists.
- There were 229,813 motorcycle registrations in Washington in 2009.
- For every 100,000 motorcycle registrations, 30 motorcyclists are killed in Washington State.
- The most common age range for fatal motorcycle accident victims is 40 to 49 (13 fatalities in 2009).
Washington Motorcycle Helmet Use
Helmets are mandatory for motorcyclists of all ages in Washington State. Title 46, Chapter 46.37 states that it is unlawful "for any person to operate or ride upon a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or moped on a state highway, county road, or city street unless wearing upon his or her head a protective helmet of a type conforming to rules adopted by the state patrol." Additionally, helmets must be equipped with a fastened neck or chin strap. According to the 2009 Crash Facts from the NHTSA:
- 87 percent of all fatal Washington motorcycle accidents involved a rider who was wearing a helmet.
- Out of the nine fatally injured motorcyclists who were not wearing a helmet, three may have survived the crash had they been wearing one.
- It is estimated that helmet use saved the lives of 36 motorcycle riders just in 2009.
Common Causes of Washington Motorcycle Accidents
Many Washington motorcycle crashes result from the actions of negligent motorists who fail to look for motorcycles while making a turn at an intersection or changing lanes. Drivers who are distracted, fatigued, or drunk have an increased chance of striking and seriously injuring a motorcyclist. Motorcyclists are also prone to accidents caused by dangerous roadways and defective auto parts. Examples of dangerous or defective roadway conditions include potholes, uneven pavement, and poor visibility. In accidents caused by dangerous roadways, injured victims can file a claim against the governmental agency that is responsible for maintaining that roadway.
What to do Following a Washington Motorcycle Accident
Your actions following an injury accident may affect your ability to pursue financial compensation.
- If someone has been harmed in the crash it is crucial that the authorities are called right away.
- If you are able, it is in your best interest to exchange information with all other motorists involved as well as with anyone who may have witnessed the crash.
- If possible, it may even be a good idea to get your side of the story into the police report.
- It would be in your best interest to seek prompt medical attention.
- Contact a skilled and knowledgeable Washington motorcycle accident lawyer.
The experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in Seattle at Hardwick & Pendergast have a long history of protecting the rights of injured motorcyclists and their families. We provide free consultations on all potential claims and we fight to hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions. Call our law offices today to find out how we can help.
Motorcycle Accident Recoveries
- $225,000 recovery for leg fracture in Seattle motorcycle accident.
