Practice Areas
Motorcycle Accidents
Washington State Motorcycle Accident Attorney
When a motorcycle collides with another type of vehicle, motorcycle riders almost always sustain greater injuries. As motorcycle accident attorneys, we have a special interest in helping people who have been injured or suffered a loss during an accident.
Drivers have a responsibility to be aware and cautious of the other motorists around them. However, drivers all too frequently fail to notice motorcyclists until it’s too late. As a result, motorcycle fatalities are on the rise in Washington State.
- More than 90 motorcycle riders died in crashes in 2019 and 2020
- Motorcycle fatalities are occurring more frequently than they have been since 1982
- Fatal motorcycle accidents happen 27 times more often than passenger car occupant accidents
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, the cost of medical treatments and out-of-pocket expenses alone can seriously impact your life. You may also be experiencing lost wages, job loss, permanent disability and other hardships.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
- Get to safety. You may find yourself dazed or confused, but the first thing you need to do is get out of harm’s way. If you can, get out of traffic and off the road. Then, analyze your surroundings and current situation. Are you hurt? Is anyone else hurt? If someone else is involved in the collision, help get them to safety, if you are able to do so.
- Keep your protective gear on. Motorcycle accidents can spike your adrenaline and mask any pain or injuries you may have. Wait for paramedics to arrive before removing your helmet and other gear, otherwise you may risk exacerbating your injuries.
- Report the crash. Call 911 to report the collision and let them know if paramedics are also needed. Once an officer arrives, they will assess the situation and fill out an accident report. Make sure you get a copy of the accident report.
- When speaking with an officer. To the best of your ability, tell the officer exactly what happened. Statements from other persons involved in the collision should also be accurate. If the officer asks if you are injured, say that you are not sure. Do not say no, because injuries may not be apparent until hours after the accident.
- Document the scene. If you can safely do so, take photos of anything that was damaged in the collision. Get the contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Also, write everything down that you can remember about the auto accident, including when and where it happened and any potential hazardous conditions.
Get medical attention. Even if you feel fine, we recommend that you seek medical attention. Even a minor collision can lead to lingering or serious injuries. If you were on a motorcycle when the accident occurred, you may have broken bones, internal bleeding, or other serious internal damage. If you do not seek medical treatment, it could interfere with your ability to receive compensation for your injuries later on.