Spokane Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Almost without exception, motorcycle accidents lead to severe damages. For help getting fair compensation for your damages, reach out to a Spokane motorcycle crash lawyer.
A motorcycle accident is one of the most dangerous types of motor vehicle accidents you can be in. If you have been in one, you have likely suffered serious injuries, and, worse, you may not be able to get the coverage you need from your insurance.
Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to catastrophic injuries. Even with a helmet, you could be severely wounded and unable to work. Head injuries are especially common—without a barrier between your body and the road, a collision can be physically devastating.
On top of that, insurance companies can make getting the compensation you need to get back on your feet difficult. The unfortunate truth is that insurance companies try to stereotype motorcyclists. They may unfairly label you as reckless or careless, and this could hurt your claim for compensation.
The state of Washington does not require motorcycle insurance, so you may be stuck without the funds to fix your motorcycle, let alone cover your medical expenses. If you didn’t cause the collision, though, you deserve the compensation you need to get your life back. A Spokane motorcycle accident attorney with our firm can help you get what you need to get through this difficult time.
Cause and Fault in Your Collision
Motorcycles are subject to more issues that may cause accidents than other motor vehicles, such as cars. That means fault can come from many sources, from the operator of the motorcycle to the manufacturer.
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is that motorcycles are simply more difficult to handle than other vehicles, especially when you encounter road hazards. Issues that might be a minor bump for a car, such as potholes, could be a major difficulty for a motorcyclist. That’s why you may be able to hold a government road authority accountable for your motorcycle crash in Spokane.
Motorcycles are also a small visual target. In fact, over two-thirds of collisions are caused by larger vehicles violating the right-of-way of motorcyclists, often because they did not see the bike.
Another common issue is a high-speed “wobble.” If the tires are not properly aligned, driving at high speeds can cause accidents. These wobble accidents are an issue of design defects, rather than driver error, and you could receive compensation from the manufacturer or a mechanic.
Many of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents are not the fault of the motorcycle rider, despite stereotypes that suggest otherwise. If you did not cause your accident, you deserve compensation, and a qualified lawyer can help you get it.
How to Protect Yourself as a Motorcyclist
Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with its own set of risks. With more and more cars and trucks on the road, it’s essential for motorcyclists to take steps to protect themselves while riding. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, it’s important to be proactive in reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring your safety while riding. So, if you’re looking to stay protected while riding, read on to learn more about the various ways you can keep yourself safe while riding your motorcycle.
Make Eye Contact
One of the key ways to do so is by making eye contact with other drivers at intersections. Eye contact not only helps to establish clear communication between drivers, but it can also indicate the intentions of other drivers, such as if they plan to turn or go straight through the intersection. This information can be crucial in helping you make informed decisions about your own actions while riding. It is important to note that making eye contact does not guarantee the safety of the rider, as other drivers may still act negligently or recklessly. However, it can increase your situational awareness and help you react more quickly in the event of an emergency.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Protecting yourself while riding on the road also requires constant awareness of your surroundings. This can reduce the risk of accidents and keep you safe. A key aspect of this awareness is regularly scanning the road ahead, behind, and to the sides to identify any potential hazards, such as other vehicles, roadwork, or debris. Pay attention to signals and indicators from other drivers, such as turn signals, brake lights, and sudden changes in speed or direction. Stay alert to road conditions, such as slick surfaces or sharp turns, and adjust your riding accordingly. By being aware and alert, you can react quickly to potential hazards and avoid accidents.
Eliminate Distractions
Be sure to eliminate distractions while riding. Common distractions include headphones and mobile devices. Don’t let headphones block out important sounds and signals from other drivers, traffic, and the road. Don’t use your phone while riding; it takes your focus away from the road and increases the risk of an accident. If you need to take a call or listen to music, use a hands-free device or pull over to a safe location.
Wear Protective Gear
As a motorcyclist, wearing protective gear is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your safety while riding. Protective gear, such as a helmet, protective clothing, gloves, and boots, can help to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident. A helmet is the most crucial piece of protective gear, as it can help to prevent head injuries, which are often the most serious and life-threatening injuries in a motorcycle accident. Make sure to choose a helmet that fits properly and meets the safety standards set by organizations such as DOT or Snell.
In addition to a helmet, protective clothing, such as a jacket, pants, and gloves, can help to protect your skin and joints from road rash and other injuries in the event of an accident. Look for protective gear made from materials such as leather or kevlar that can provide a higher level of protection. Boots can also help to protect your feet and ankles and should provide adequate coverage and support while riding.
Wearing protective gear can also make you more visible to other drivers on the road, which can help to reduce the risk of accidents. Bright colors, reflective materials, and proper lighting can all help to increase your visibility and make you easier to see.
It is important to note that wearing protective gear does not guarantee your safety while riding. However, it can significantly reduce the risk of injury and increase your chances of surviving a motorcycle accident. By taking the time to choose high-quality protective gear that fits properly and is appropriate for the conditions in which you are riding, you can increase your chances of staying safe while riding your motorcycle.
Remember, your safety is in your hands, so be sure to do everything possible to stay safe on the roads.
Motorcycle-Related Injuries
In a motorcycle accident, you could easily suffer catastrophic injuries. Because motorcyclists do not have a barrier between them and the road or another vehicle, they are more prone to lethal or even fatal accidents.
Below are a few possible injuries you might have suffered:
- Brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Spine injuries
Even a minor accident can cause severe damage, but you have the chance to recover your losses. If you have suffered from any of these injuries, a motorcycle crash lawyer in Spokane can help you pursue full and fair compensation.
The Compensation You Deserve
If you were recently hurt in a motorcycle accident, you may still be suffering from your injuries. With the right team behind you, though, you can get the compensation you deserve to help you through it.
Insurance companies may want to only cover your repairs or damage to the property of others, or they may not want to pay you at all. But if you believe you were not at fault, the damages you have incurred should be covered in your Spokane motorcycle wreck claim.
Damages for a Motorcycle Collision
Below is a sample of the damages and losses you could see returned to you:
- Physical or cognitive therapy
- Loss of companionship
- Ambulance and other medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
Get in Touch with a Motorcycle Collision Attorney in Spokane
If you have been injured in a crash and need help, the attorneys at Craig Swapp & Associates are here for you. The insurance companies may label motorcycle owners as reckless or dangerous, but we’re here to make sure your story is heard and help you get your life back.
If you believe you have a viable case, get in touch. Our firm offers a free, no-pressure consultation to help you decide what your next step will be. Simply fill out the form below or give us a call at 1-800-404-9000 to speak with a Spokane motorcycle crash lawyer.
