Primary Font:

Injured While Riding Your Bike? A Bicycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

Bicycle collisions with automobiles can result in serious injury. It’s hard to know what to do next. Emerald City Law Group is here to help injured bicyclists in Washington navigate personal injury claims, including communication with insurance companies and filing a lawsuit. You’re entitled to full and fair compensation if a reckless driver hit you and caused you harm Our skilled Seattle bicycle accident attorneys can help you recover all the compensation you deserve.

From helping you get the medical treatment you need to holding the right party accountable, contact Emerald City Law Group if you were hurt in a bicycle accident.

Based in Seattle, We Assist People Across Washington and Offer Virtual Consultations. Initial Consults are Free, Confidential, and We’re Available 24/7 to Answer Your Questions.

Washington Bicycle Accidents

In Washington, bicyclists have the same rights as drivers of cars, trucks, vans, and other vehicles. However, these rights do not guarantee that drivers of motor vehicles will give bicyclists the respect they deserve on the roadways.

Unfortunately, the injuries from bike accidents are often severe because bike riders often have little protection between themselves and the massive motor vehicle that slams into them.

What Causes Bicycle Accidents?

Bicycle accidents can result from a variety of factors, including both driver-related and cyclist-related causes. Here are some of the most common causes of bicycle accidents:

  • Distracted Driving
  • Failure to Yield
  • Unsafe Lane Changes
  • Turning Without Looking
  • Dooring
  • Speeding
  • Driving Under the Influence
  • Poor Road Conditions & Hazards
  • Weather Conditions
  • Road Rage
  • Lack of Bike Lanes
The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 logo
Washington Association for Justice logo
National College for DUI Defense logo
WACDL Logo
Avvo Rating, 9.5 Superb logo
ASLA The American Society of Legal Advocates logo

Seattle Bike Accidents: What You Need to Know

The sheer size and weight difference between cars and bikes put them at a distinct disadvantage. When a crash occurs between a bicycle and a motor vehicle, the bicyclist can suffer severe injuries. Often, the fault rests with the motor vehicle driver for failing to share the road safely.

Washington Bike Law

Under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 46.61.755, bicyclists are protected from the actions of negligent or reckless drivers. Injured bike riders involved in crashes resulting from the negligence of other drivers can get compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other losses.

Compensation for Bicycle vs. Car Accidents

Bicyclists who have suffered one or more injuries in a collision with a motor vehicle may be entitled to recover compensation for these injuries and damages. This compensation may include coverage for:

  • Property Damage
  • Lost Wages
  • Loss of Earning Capacity
  • Past and Future Medical Bills
  • Permanent Disability
  • Disfigurement
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life
  • Emotional Distress
  • Loss of Consortium

Drivers who obey the law regarding required insurance coverage carry liability insurance to pay the cost of a victim’s damages in the event of an accident.

Proving Liability for a Bike Accident

To prove liability in a bicycle-motor vehicle crash, the injured bicyclist needs to call the police as soon as possible so they can write a report consisting of a fair and honest assessment of the accident details.

Other factors that can establish liability include photographs of the scene and statements from witnesses. If you are physically able, take numerous photos and record contact information of any individuals who may have witnessed the incident.

Claims Against a Government Agency

Regardless of the severity of the injuries you incur if you’re involved in a bicycle accident, insurance policies are often limited in how much they cover. Cyclists injured by government vehicles may have access to higher coverage amounts.

Although these cases are rare, cyclists can be injured due to negligent road design or poor road upkeep. In such cases as the injured cyclist, you may be able to file a claim against the government agency responsible for the design or maintenance of the roadway.

What To Do After a Bicycle Accident in Washington?

If you are involved in a bicycle vs. car accident in Seattle or anywhere in Washington, knowing how to protect your rights and get the medical attention you need is important. Here are the steps you should take:

  1. Check for Injuries: Your priority should be to check for injuries. If you or anyone else is injured, call 911 immediately.
  2. Move to a Safe Location: If you can, move yourself and your bicycle to a safe location out of traffic.
  3. Call the Police: Even if you think the accident is minor, it is important to call the police so that they can file an accident report. The police report will be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
  4. Exchange Information: Exchange information with the car’s driver, including their name, address, phone number, insurance information, and license plate number.
  5. Get Witness Info: If there are any witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information.
  6. Take Pictures: Document the accident scene, your bicycle, and any damage to your property.
  7. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t think you are injured, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any hidden injuries. Your medical records will serve as a baseline for the severity of your injuries and will be evidence in your insurance claim.
  8. Contact a Seattle Bike Accident Attorney: If you have been injured in the accident, you should contact a Seattle bike injury attorney to discuss your legal options. An attorney can help you file an insurance claim, negotiate a settlement, or file a lawsuit.

"Thank you for the excellent representation...

Emerald city law group was amazing and helpful from the beginning. Very easy to work with and made a stressful situation as stress free as possible, very professional and swift. I would recommend going to them over any others. Hands down best experience.

Washington Bike Accident Info & Resources

Our Seattle bike accident lawyers can help you navigate an insurance claim. You likely have many questions at this time. We have answers. If you need additional information, reach out to Emerald City Law Group as soon as possible.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim after a Bike vs Car Accident in Washington?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Washington State is generally three years from the date of the accident. It is advisable to file a claim as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Can a Cyclist Be Liable for an Accident with a Car?

Yes, a cyclist can be held liable if they are found to be at fault for the accident. This can occur if the cyclist was violating traffic laws, such as running a red light or riding the wrong way on a one-way street. Liability is determined based on negligence and adherence to traffic laws.

How Does Insurance Handle Bike vs Car Accidents in Washington?

In a bike vs car accident, the driver’s auto insurance is typically the first place to seek compensation for injuries and damages, especially if the driver is at fault. Washington is a “comparative fault” state, meaning that if both parties share fault, any compensation awarded will be reduced by the percentage of the cyclist’s fault.

What are the Bike Helmet Laws in Washington?

Washington does not have a statewide helmet law for cyclists; however, many cities and counties, such as King County and Tacoma, require cyclists of all ages to wear helmets. It’s important to check local ordinances to ensure compliance with helmet laws.

How Long Does a Bicycle Accident Claim Take?

It’s important to be patient. Resolving your personal injury claim or lawsuit can take several months or even longer. Cooperating with your bike accident attorney throughout the process to make it go faster.

Don’t Wait. Contact Our Seattle Bike Injury Lawyers

The bike accident lawyers at Emerald City Law Group know that the days and weeks after the accident are important. You should call us right away. If you cannot, you can have a friend or family member reach out on your behalf.

Emerald City Law Group Will:

  • Gather evidence to support your claim.
  • Help you file an insurance claim.
  • Negotiate a fair settlement offer with the insurance company.
  • Correspond with other parties and insurance companies.
  • Draft legal documents and file a lawsuit, if necessary.
  • Keep you informed throughout the legal process.
  • Take your case to trial and get you the compensation you deserve.
  • Bike Accident Attorneys Serving Washington – Free Consults 24/7

    Emerald City Law Group provides Seattle and the greater Washington area with high-caliber legal representation for those who were in bicycle accidents.

    Seattle – Local Areas Served

    • King County – Bellevue, Auburn, Kent, Renton, Federal Way, Kirkland, Redmond, Bothell, Carnation, Duvall, Issaquah, Maple Valley, Mercer Island, Sammamish, Seattle, & Woodinville
    • Snohomish County – Everett, Lynnwood, and Marysville.
    • Pierce County – Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, and Lakewood
      • Greater Washington

        • Grays Harbor
        • Kittitas County
        • Spokane County
        • Cowlitz County
        • Douglas County
        • Mason County
        • Skagit County
        • Thurston County
        • Island County
        • Mason County
        • Grays County
        • Kitsap County
        • Lewis County
        • Whatcom County
        • Whitman County
        • San Juan County