Kirkland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Due to the lack of safety equipment available on motorcycles, wrecks on these vehicles can result in devastating harm. A motorcyclist that is struck by a negligent driver or operating a faulty bike is at risk of personal injury and financial losses.

If you have been involved in an accident on your motorbike, you should speak with a reliable attorney as soon as possible. A Kirkland motorcycle accident lawyer could review your case and help you hold the at-fault party accountable.

What Requirements must Motorcyclists Meet?

Any motorist who takes to Washington’s roadways must operate their vehicle with the safety of other drivers in mind, including motorcyclists. Drivers who operating their vehicles under the influence, while distracted, or who deliberately violate roadway law may be accused of negligence. If these behaviors result in a collision with a motorcyclist, then the injured party has the right to pursue legal action to compensate for their losses.

Notably, motorcyclists also have additional requirements. According to the motorcycle operator manual released by Washington state, all cyclists must:

• Pass a motorcycle education course
• Possess a Class C, MI, or M1 license
• Put on an approved helmet
• Ride alone unless in possession of a passenger seat and footrests
• Repair any damage to the headlight and taillight
• Ensure that both mirrors and both turn signals work effectively

Washington law also notes that a motorcycle’s handlebars must be less than 30 inches above the seat. However, state law does not have any statutes in place requiring motorcyclists to wear specific protective clothing on the road, such as gloves, a jacket, or street-safe pants.

Failure to adhere to these requirements could see an injured motorcyclist being accused of exacerbating their injuries. A Kirkland lawyer could help prove a motorcyclist was following the relevant laws at the time of their accident.

Compensation Available to Injured Motorcyclists

Anyone who finds themselves involved in a motorcycle wreck may choose to contact a Kirkland attorney to help them quantify their losses and prove another person owes them compensation. Due to the nature of these collisions, many of these cases involve catastrophic injuries or wrongful deaths.

Since the losses in these cases are so severe, the available damages often are substantial. Injured motorcyclists could recover compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. They could also seek compensation for their pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, and decreased quality of life.

Parties who wish to pursue compensation after a motorcycle accident must also submit this paperwork within Washington state’s statute of limitations.  Revised Code of Washington §4.16.080 gives all interested parties three years to file their claims. Anyone who tries to file a claim after that three-year period has passed will have their right to compensation dismissed.

Contact a Kirkland Motorcycle Accident Attorney Right Away

The state of Washington strives to offer victims of motorcycle crashes opportunities to respond to another person’s negligence, and a Kirkland motorcycle accident lawyer may make that process a little easier. If you or a loved one were injured due to a driver’s negligence or a defective bike, do not hesitate to seek legal representation. Our team could review your situation and help you determine the best approach to get you the compensation you are owed. Call now.