Have you or a loved ones been involved in a motorcycle accident? If so, the aftermath can be overwhelming and confusing. With so many questions swirling around your head, it’s easy to feel lost and unsure of what steps to take next. As Bellingham motorcycle accident attorneys with decades of experience, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions about motorcycle injury cases to help guide you through this challenging time. From understanding your legal rights to navigating the claims process, our goal is to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions and get back on track as quickly as possible.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, take pictures of your injuries and the damage to your motorcycle if you are able. Otherwise, seek medical attention right away. Keep copies of medical records, bills and expenses related to your injuries and contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you understand the value of your accident claim.
Not wearing a helmet does not prevent an injured motorcycle rider from recovering damages, but it can reduce the amount of the settlement if an expert witness can show that your failure to wear a helmet made your injuries worse.
It is wise to contact a local accident lawyer if you are in a motorcycle accident. He or she can assess the cause of the accident (fault), the severity of your injuries and the amount that your claim is worth. If the insurance company has offered a settlement, it is a good idea to have it reviewed by a personal injury attorney, as insurance companies will offer the lowest settlement possible. If your attorney negotiates a settlement on your behalf, you pay only a portion of the settlement and consultations are free.
Like all accident cases, there is no set worth. When determining the value of a claim, a motorcycle accident lawyer will consider many factors including the severity of your injuries, the cost of your medical bills and other damages such as lost wages. Motorcycle accident cases vary in value from a few thousand dollars to more than a million dollars.
Personal injury claims in Washington State must generally be filed within 3 years from the date of the accident. Talk to a motorcycle accident attorney to discuss the statute of limitations that applies to your case.
Yes. You can still sue the at-fault driver for damages even if you did not have motorcycle insurance.
Yes. Motorcyclists injured by an unidentified driver may be able to recover damages under their own uninsured motorist policy.
In Washington State, fault can be shared in a personal injury case. Damages are awarded based on contributory fault law, which means you may recover damages in proportion to the percentage of fault attributed to the other party. For example, if you were 10% at fault and your damages were $100,000, you would be eligible to recover $90,000.
We look forward to answering all of your questions and speaking with you about your legal needs. When you call our office or send us a message through our consultation request form we will provide a FREE initial consultation and case evaluation. Our attorneys offer home and hospital visits with evening and weekend appointments available.