Seattle Bicycle Accident Attorney

Bicycle collisions in Seattle can result in serious injury. When cyclists and drivers occupy the same space on the road, bikers often bear the brunt of any type of accident between the two. As an injured bicyclist in this type of scenario, you will need the assistance of skilled Seattle bicycle accident lawyers to help recover the compensation you deserve.

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 driver of the motor vehicle for failing to share the road safely. At Emerald City Law Group, our Seattle bike accident lawyers have an established track record of standing up for our injured clients and helping them recover compensation.

Let our Seattle bicycle accident attorneys help you. We can help you recover damages in the form of lost wages, medical costs, and other expenses. To begin with a free case review with one of our Seattle bicycle accident lawyers, call us today at 206-973-0407, or send us a request through our contact form.

The Rights of Bicyclists Under Washington Bike Law

In Washington, bicyclists are provided 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 treatment on the roadways they deserve. 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 benefit from the services provided by experienced bicycle accident lawyers.

Proving Liability of the At-Fault Driver

To prove liability in a bicycle-motor vehicle crash, it is important as the injured bicyclist 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.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents in Washington State

The types of serious injuries that are often the result of bicycle-car collisions include:

• Brain injuries
• Mental distress
• Broken bones
• Disfigurement
• Head injuries
• Death

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
• Medical bills
• Permanent disfigurement or disability

The At-Fault Party’s Insurance Policy

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. Bicyclist victims may require the services of bicycle accident lawyers if they cannot obtain adequate coverage for their injuries from the at-fault party’s insurance policy.

Regardless of the severity of the injuries you incur if you’re involved in a bicycle accident, insurance policies are often limited in terms of how much they cover. Cyclists injured by commercial or 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 and/or maintenance of the roadway.

Insurance adjusters have the interests of the insurance company in mind among other things. When one of their policyholders is found to be at significant fault, they will likely use a strategy to lessen the severity of bicycle accident injuries you have suffered as well as the timeframe you need for your recovery. The highly skilled bicycle accident lawyers from our firm will fight hard to help you obtain the compensation you deserve in the face of any and all strategies or tactics used by the insurance company to minimize or deny your claim.

Bicycle Accident Statistics in Washington State

Although Washington is considered a bike-friendly state, crashes do happen. Statistics from the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) for 2017 reveal that 13 people were killed in bicycle collisions, and 102 individuals were suspected of suffering serious injuries in these crashes.

Contact a Seattle Bicycle Accident Attorney Who Will Fight For the Compensation You Deserve

If you need legal representation to ensure you recover the compensation you deserve following injuries sustained in an accident involving a bicycle and motor vehicle, Seattle bicycle accident attorney Stryder J. Wegener of Emerald City Law Group will fight vigorously on your behalf for justice. To schedule a free case evaluation with one of our Seattle personal injury lawyers, call our law office today at 206-973-0407, or send us a message through our contact form.