Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Bellevue

FAQs

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

  For non-emergencies, please call the Bellevue Police Department at 425-577-5656.

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

  Visit the City of Bellevue's Public Records Center to request a police accident report. You can also reach out to the Bellevue Police Department's Public Records Officer at 425-452-6917 or BPDrecords@bellevuewa.gov.

• What are the primary causes of motorcycle accidents in Bellevue?

  Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Bellevue are driving while distracted, speeding, breaking traffic rules, and failing to check blind spots. Crashes or collisions with other motor vehicles or road hazards can result in serious injuries or even death. Authorities advise motorists to exercise extra caution on the road, particularly on Interstates 90 and 405, which are deemed dangerous for motorcycle riders.

• Is it dangerous for Bellevue motorcycle riders to drive under the influence of alcohol?

  Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous for motorcycle riders in Bellevue, which is why no one should drive while intoxicated. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, driver impairment is involved in more than half of all fatal crashes in the state between 2017 and 2021. The data also shows that at least 32% of fatal accidents involved drunk drivers.

• Can you ride a motorcycle without a helmet in Bellevue?

  No. Motorcycle riders in Bellevue should always use full-face DOT-approved helmets under RCW 46.37.530. Washington is one of 18 states that have enacted a motorcycle helmet law with the goal of reducing motorcycle fatalities and injuries caused by head impacts. According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, unhelmeted riders are more likely to die from a head injury than helmeted riders. Motorcyclists are also advised to replace their motorcycle helmets every five years or after a motorcycle accident.

• How long after a motorcycle accident in Bellevue can you file a claim?

  In Bellevue, you have three years from the date of your accident to submit a claim for a motorcycle crash. The longer you wait to file your claim, the more likely the evidence proving the other party's blame for your injuries will vanish. It can also cast doubt on the validity of your injuries. If you have been in a motorcycle accident, contact a motorcycle accident attorney immediately to assist you with your legal needs.

• Is it necessary to have motorcycle insurance in Bellevue?

  Since July 28, 2019, motorcycle insurance has been mandatory for riders in Bellevue and throughout Washington. If you are a motorcyclist, you are only required to have bodily injury and property damage liability insurance. However, you are advised to carry higher liability coverage based on your financial circumstances. Insurance companies also provide uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to safeguard you if the at-fault party does not have insurance or if their policy does not fully compensate you for the injuries you have sustained in a motorcycle accident.

• 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.