Motorcycle Accidents Lawyers in Seattle

Motorcycle accidents can happen in a split second and change a victim’s life forever. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 80% of reported motorcycle accidents result in serious injury, or death. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, the experience can be incredibly difficult and overwhelming. You may feel pressured to accept the initial compensation offered by the insurance company, even though it doesn’t cover all of your ongoing medical costs or the emotional distress you’ve suffered.

You don’t have to handle this challenging situation on your own. An experienced Seattle motorcycle accident attorney from Elsner Law Firm can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact our law firm today at 206-447-1425 to learn more about how we can assist you with your legal needs.

What Harm Can A Motorcycle Accident Inflict?

Due to its exposed nature, you are truly at the mercy of the elements when riding a motorcycle. Unfortunately, this also means motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to potentially severe injuries in a crash. It is recommended that you wear thick leather chaps and jackets and a DOT-approved helmet to protect yourself as much as possible while riding. Having these items in high-visibility colors can also potentially help other motorists see you and prevent motorcycle accidents.

Sadly, even after taking these preventive measures, motorcycle riders, can still find themselves involved in a motorcycle accident that can leave them grievously injured. Because motorcycles lack the safety equipment in modern cars, such as airbags and roll cages, motorcycle accident victims can suffer significant harm in a crash that could seem minor to a car occupant. Some of the physical damage the motorcycle accident victims may experience includes:

Broken bones
Damage to internal organs
Head injuries, including traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Amputated or crushed limbs
Road rash (lacerations caused by sliding across the pavement at high speed)
Face and eye injuries
Spinal injuries, potentially leading to full or partial paralysis
Whiplash
Wrongful death

What Damages May Victims Of A Motorcycle Accident Be Able To Recover?

Washington motorcycle accident victims often find themselves facing a long road to recovery. You may face sky-high medical bills and lost wages due to your injuries. You might even be looking at a lifetime of serious injuries, disability, chronic pain, and disturbing flashbacks after your crash.

Your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance may cover some of your expenses, but if you suffer serious injuries, your damages will quickly exceed the policy limits. In this case, a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer can help hold those responsible for your losses accountable. Depending on the circumstances of your being injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be eligible for one or more of these types of compensation:

Actual compensatory damages: These compensate for the tangible financial losses you experienced, including medical expenses, personal property damage, motorcycle replacement or repair, lost wages, and more.
General compensatory damages: Some losses are harder to quantify but are just as devastating. The court may award compensation for pain and suffering, disfigurement and scarring, loss of life’s enjoyment, mental anguish, and other areas.
Wrongful death: When someone involved in a motorcycle accident dies, their loved ones can seek compensation for the loss of their companionship and support.

What Is The Statute Of Limitations On Motorcycle Accident Claims In Washington State?

To preserve their right to sue for damages, motorcycle accident victims must file a personal injury claim within a specified time period. The state laws governing this time limit are known as the statute of limitations. In Washington state, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including motorcycle accident claims, is three years from the date of the accident. Rarely, there may be limited exceptions to this time limit. However, it is still best to retain a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after your crash to ensure that you do not lose your opportunity to seek justice for your injuries.

What Can A Seattle Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do For You?

At Elsner Law Firm, our clients come first. We will fight for your rights and will not allow an insurance company to pressure you into taking a settlement that does not meet your needs and is not in your best interests. Our experienced Washington motorcycle accident lawyers will meticulously investigate your crash, build a strong case, and handle all necessary paperwork and negotiations so that you can focus on healing. Contact us today for a free consultation with a team of knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyers: 206-447-1425.