Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Kent, WA

FAQs

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

  253-856-5800 is the non-emergency contact number for the Kent Police Department.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Kent, Washington?

  Visit https://fortress.wa.gov/wsp/wrecr/WSPCRS to get a stand-alone Traffic Collision Report for an accident you were involved in.

• Should you hire an attorney after a motorcycle crash in Kent?

  Hiring a lawyer can provide many benefits. They can provide legal counsel, investigate the accident, gather evidence, communicate with the insurance company, negotiate a fair settlement, file the necessary paperwork, represent you in court, and work to prove liability to seek the compensation you deserve. Even if fault is obvious, there may be more information and evidence needed. A Kent motorcycle accident attorney can navigate the system to ensure that you are duly compensated.

• What is the average compensation for a motorcycle crash in Kent?

  The amount of compensation for a Kent motorcycle accident varies depending on the individual's unique situation and the evidence collected. Losses that could be compensated include medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and property damage. Non-economic losses like emotional trauma, pain, and suffering can also be compensated. It's challenging to determine the value of a motorcycle rider's injury claim, and a lawyer can offer sound legal advice and help include every type of loss that one qualifies for in their claim.

• What are the common causes of motorcycle accidents in Kent?

  • Dangerous road conditions
  • Defective automobile or motorcycle parts
  • Drunk driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Aggressive or reckless driving
  • Distracted driving

  If a motorcycle accident occurs due to another motorist's negligence, it's essential to know how to file a claim and seek compensation. In cases where dangerous road conditions in Kent caused the accident, it may be possible to seek compensation from a property owner or the government. Additionally, if a defective part caused the collision and resulting personal injuries, it may be possible to pursue compensation from the motorcycle or automobile designer or manufacturer.

• Is it possible to seek compensation if you were partially responsible for the motorcycle accident in Kent?

  Under Washington State's contributory fault law, a plaintiff can still recover damages even if they were partially to blame for the motorcycle accident in Kent. The damages awarded will be reduced based on the percentage of the plaintiff's own fault, which means that the plaintiff's own fault does not bar their recovery. For instance, if a plaintiff is found to be 20% responsible for the accident, they will receive a reduced damages award that reflects this percentage of fault. This law applies whether the plaintiff is determined to be 1% or 99% responsible.

• What are the common injuries from a motorcycle crash in Kent?

  Common types of injuries include: burns, abrasions, and lacerations; traumatic brain injuries and concussions; damaged limbs or broken bones; amputation; and seat belt burn. To help you file a claim against the motorist who caused your injuries and make sure you obtain the settlement you are entitled to for the accident, speak with a motorcycle accident attorney in Kent.

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.