Russell & Hill, PLLC

Although motorcyclists have the same rights enjoyed by other drivers on the road, the truth is that they don’t always get the respect they deserve, and this sometimes leads to motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists are up to 27 times more likely to die per traveled vehicle mile than their counterparts riding in standard passenger vehicles. Motorcyclists have a greater degree of vulnerability when compared to traditional motorists, since they are driving a vehicle with no surrounding protection and no seat belt. This vulnerability can lead to significant injuries for the motorcyclist in the event of a crash. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, you should speak to our Auburn motorcycle accident attorney right away to discuss the legal options you have for filing a personal injury claim.

Inattentive drivers and others often overlook motorcycles on the road or even hold them in disdain. It takes just a moment of distraction on the road for a driver to fail to see a motorcyclist in his path, with the result being a catastrophic accident that forever changes the lives of those injured. Serious injuries often result from motorcycle crashes, including head and neck injuries, road rash, crushing injuries, deep cuts and lacerations, broken ribs and collapsed lungs. Sadly, even when riders wear protective helmets, this type of safety gear is only about 40 percent effective in preventing fatal injuries.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

The predominant cause of motorcycle crashes on Washington’s roadways is the inability of drivers of passenger vehicles to see the motorcyclist in the first place. Around three-fourths of all motorcycle accidents involve other vehicles in some way. Other top reasons that motorcycles crash include:

  • Speeding. Driver response time is lessened when a driver is speeding. The faster it goes, the harder it becomes to stop or to make a wise reaction when situations arise on the roadway.
  • Impaired driving. It goes without saying that drinking and doing drugs while driving is a deadly mix.
  • Rear-end collision. Accidents where cars follow motorcycles too closely can end up with devastating results. Rear ends also occur when motorcycles are stopped at stop lights.
  • Unsafe lane changes. Failing to check blindspots and changing lanes without proper signaling can lead to serious crashes between motorcycles and cars.
  • Open car doors in pathway of motorcycle. Unexpectedly opening a car door in the path of an oncoming motorcycle is a recipe for disaster.
  • Dangerous road conditions. Broken pavement and potholes, among other perils on the road, can lead to horrific problems.
  • Manufacturing defects in the motorcycle. A faulty part or dangerous design can end up costing the motorcyclist big time when the part fails or a safety system goes awry.

Motorcycle accidents often result in high-value claims against large insurance companies who hire top-notch lawyers to represent their interests. Count on our Auburn motorcycle accident attorney to go to bat for you and help you win the compensation that you deserve. Find out about the legal options available to you now; arrange a consultation with our legal team now.

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