Best Bicycle Accident Lawyers in Vancouver, WA

Vancouver, WA Bicycle Accident FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Vancouver, Washington?

  The non-emergency dispatch number of the Vancouver Police Department is 360-693-3111

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Vancouver, Washington?

  You may request a copy of a Vancouver police report through the online public records portal of the City of Vancouver at https://vancouverwa.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(15tyelw2fmypdq5no5qyfe1u))/supporthome.aspx.

• How can the helmet law help cyclists in Vancouver in the event of an accident?

  Helmets reduce head and brain injuries for bicycle riders regardless of crash cause. In Vancouver, bicyclists of all ages must wear a helmet when operating their bikes. This rule has been effective since 2008. Washington does not have laws that mandate helmet use among bicyclists, but cities and counties enact local ordinances to require helmet use while cycling.

• Are children in Vancouver required to follow the city’s bicycle traffic laws?

  Yes. Children in Vancouver are not exempt from the city’s traffic laws. Bicyclists of all ages are required to adhere to the same traffic laws and may be penalized for violations. If a minor violates the law, the child’s parents or guardians may be held responsible for their child’s wrongdoing.

• How does lighting help riders stay safe while riding at night in Vancouver?

  Bicycle safety equipment, such as lighting, is an important component of cycling since it improves your visibility on the road and makes you more visible to other drivers at night. Vancouver adheres to Washington's bicycle laws that require cyclists to have a white front light and a red rear reflector installed on their bikes, especially if they ride at night. Additionally, cyclists may use a red lamp on the rear of the bicycle for extra visibility.

• Do you get arrested for riding your bicycle while drunk in Vancouver?

  Yes. When you cycle in Vancouver while under the influence of intoxicating substances, you may face criminal charges, such as disorderly conduct, reckless engagement, and reckless driving. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System posted in 2022 that among bicyclists ages 16 and older who figured in fatal accidents, 18 percent had blood alcohol concentrations at or above 0.08%.

• Is there a deadline for filing a bicycle accident claim in Vancouver?

  Yes. If you are looking to file a bicycle accident claim in Vancouver to pursue compensation, you must do so within three years from the date of your accident. This legal deadline is governed by Washington State’s statute of limitations for personal injury. If you fail to bring your claim within the time window, you may lose your opportunity to recover damages.