Many motorcycle accidents occur while riders are traveling at higher speeds. When a collision like this happens, the motorcyclist may be left with life-changing injuries.
It is no surprise that motorcycle accidents have one of the highest injury and fatality rates of all auto accidents.
We believe that all motorcycle accident victims deserve justice and compensation.
If you were injured or someone you love was killed in a Kirkland motorcycle accident, we are here to help.
How We Help Protect the Rights of Motorcycle Accident Victims
At Bernard Law Group, we represent and protect the rights of motorcycle accident victims. When you contact our office, you can feel confident we will work to build a solid case on your behalf. Here’s how we help:
Thorough Accident Investigation
The first step is to investigate your accident. This involves gathering evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos. We also work with accident reconstruction experts to build a clear case demonstrating how the accident occurred and who is at fault.
Understanding the Impact
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries. We take the time to understand the full impact of these injuries on your life. This includes the immediate physical harm and the long-term emotional and financial effects. By understanding your situation, we can advocate for the full compensation you need and deserve.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting and complex. Our experienced team handles all negotiations, ensuring you are not pressured into accepting a lowball offer. We fight to secure a settlement that reflects the extent of your situation and losses.
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Legal Expertise in Motorcycle Laws
We understand motorcycle laws and the rights of riders. This expertise is crucial in navigating the legal factors of motorcycle accidents and protecting your rights.
Representation in Court
We are prepared to represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations with the insurance company. Our experienced litigators are committed to presenting a strong case to secure the best possible outcome.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences, and understanding their common causes is essential for prevention and awareness.
Here are some of the typical factors leading to motorcycle accidents.
Driver Inattention
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is driver inattention. This issue isn’t limited to motorcyclists; it often involves other road users who fail to notice motorcycles due to their smaller size. Distracted driving, such as using a phone or other in-car activities, significantly increases the risk of overlooking a motorcyclist.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Excessive speed is another factor in many motorcycle accidents. Speeding reduces the rider’s reaction time and increases the severity of an accident. Both motorcyclists and other vehicle drivers can be guilty of this, leading to dangerous situations on the road.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to hazardous road conditions. Potholes, uneven road surfaces, wet or icy conditions, and debris on the road can all lead to accidents. Motorcyclists need to be vigilant and adjust their riding according to road conditions.
Cornering Errors
Mistakes in navigating corners are a common cause of motorcycle accidents. These errors can be due to inexperience, overestimating one’s abilities, or misjudging the sharpness of a turn. Proper training and experience are crucial in reducing cornering errors.
Vehicle Blind Spots
Motorcycles can easily fall into the blind spots of larger vehicles, especially trucks and buses. When these vehicles make turns or lane changes without noticing a motorcycle, it can lead to serious accidents. Both motorcyclists and drivers must be aware of blind spots and take steps to mitigate these risks.
Impaired Riding
Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant cause of motorcycle accidents. Impairment affects judgment, reaction times, and overall control, making it a dangerous choice for anyone on the road.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in more severe injuries compared to car accidents due to the exposed nature of the rider. Understanding these common injuries can highlight the importance of safety measures and the need for appropriate legal representation following an accident.
Head and Brain Injuries
Even with a helmet, motorcyclists are at risk of head and brain injuries. Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can range from mild to severe, potentially leading to long-term cognitive issues, memory loss, or even permanent disability.
Road Rash
Road rash occurs when a rider’s skin contacts the road surface, leading to abrasions. Severe cases can require medical treatment to prevent infection and may result in scarring or the need for skin grafts.
Lower Extremity Injuries
Injuries to the legs, knees, and feet are common in motorcycle accidents. These can range from fractures and broken bones to ligament damage and dislocations. Such injuries can impact mobility and may require extensive physical therapy.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can lead to spinal cord injuries, which are among the most serious due to their potential to cause paralysis or significant long-term disability. These injuries are often life-changing, affecting the victim’s quality of life and independence.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are less visible but can be life-threatening. Damage to internal organs and internal bleeding might not be immediately apparent, making prompt medical attention crucial after an accident.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can occur in various ways. Understanding the different types of motorcycle accidents can help riders and other road users in terms of prevention and awareness.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the deadliest motorcycle accidents. They usually occur when a car enters the opposite lane and collides with an oncoming motorcycle. The force of impact in these situations often results in severe or fatal injuries for the motorcyclist.
Left-Turn Accidents
These accidents happen when a vehicle making a left turn collides with a motorcycle going straight, often at an intersection. Motorcyclists are at a higher risk in these scenarios because their smaller size makes them less visible to turning drivers.
Lane Splitting Accidents
Lane splitting involves a motorcycle riding between two slow-moving or stopped traffic lanes. This can lead to accidents due to the proximity of the vehicles and the limited space for maneuvering, coupled with the fact that other drivers are not anticipating this movement. Though not legal in Washington, riders still often maneuver through traffic this way.
Rear-End Collisions
Motorcyclists can be rear-ended by vehicles, especially in heavy traffic or at stop lights. Such impacts can throw the rider off the bike, leading to serious injuries, particularly if the vehicle behind fails to stop in time.
Cornering Accidents
Accidents during cornering can occur due to various factors like excessive speed, poor road conditions, or rider inexperience. Losing control while navigating a turn is a common scenario, often resulting in the rider sliding off the road or into oncoming traffic.
Collisions with Fixed Objects
Motorcyclists colliding with fixed objects, such as lampposts, barriers, or trees, can be particularly hazardous. These accidents often occur due to loss of control and can result in severe injuries due to the direct impact.
Accidents Due to Road Hazards
Motorcycles are especially vulnerable to accidents caused by road hazards such as potholes, uneven road surfaces, debris, or slippery conditions. These can cause the rider to lose control, leading to falls or collisions.
Legal Rights of Motorcycle Accident Victims in Kirkland, Washington
Motorcycle accident victims in Kirkland, Washington, have specific legal rights that protect their interests and ensure they can seek justice and compensation for their injuries and losses.
Here’s an overview of these rights:
Right to Compensation
Victims of motorcycle accidents have the right to seek compensation for damages incurred due to the accident. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. Compensation aims to restore the victim to their pre-accident state as much as possible.
Right to Legal Representation
Victims have the right to be represented by an attorney. Legal representation is crucial in navigating the complexities of motorcycle accident claims, dealing with insurance companies, and ensuring fair treatment throughout the legal process.
Right to a Fair Trial
Victims have the right to a fair trial if a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached out of court. This ensures that a court of law hears their case, allowing the victim to present evidence and argue for just compensation.
Right to File a Claim within Legal Deadlines
Washington State’s statute of limitations allows motorcycle accident victims a specific timeframe to either settle their claim or file a lawsuit. In Kirkland, as in all of Washington, this is generally three years from the accident date. Understanding and adhering to these deadlines is crucial for maintaining the right to seek compensation.
Right to No Discrimination
Motorcycle accident victims have the right to be treated without discrimination. Stereotypes or biases against motorcyclists should not influence the handling of their claims. Fair and unbiased treatment is a legal right in the pursuit of compensation.
Right to Privacy and Confidentiality
Throughout the legal process, victims have the right to privacy and confidentiality regarding their case details and personal information. This right protects victims from unnecessary public exposure of sensitive information.
Seeking Justice? Contact Us Today for Expert Legal Counsel!
Ensuring Justice for Motorcycle Accident Victims
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, we can help. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you get the compensation and justice you deserve.
Contact our office to schedule a free initial consultation.
