The laws of the road are meant for everyone – automobiles, large trucks, and motorcycles. However, because motorcycles can be less visible on the road, they are vulnerable to drivers who fail to yield the right of way, neglect to check their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes, or who do not allow sufficient braking distance when following a motorcycle.
In addition to negligent drivers, motorcycle accidents may be caused by negligently designed or maintained roads and highways. State and local governments may be responsible for a motorcycle accident caused by hazardous road conditions.
Motorcycle accidents can also be caused by negligent design, manufacture and repair of the motorcycle. Improper maintenance and repair can lead to malfunction or failure of the motorcycle’s engine, steering, brakes or other component parts during operation. In such cases, a claim may exist against the business that performed the repairs or maintenance. In cases where a manufacturer has failed to meet required safety standards, it may be possible to establish liability against the company that built the motorcycle.
The driver of a motorcycle may be entitled to compensation for both damage to property and personal injuries suffered. In cases of gross negligence or an individual driving under the influence, there may be grounds for a criminal action. Injuries suffered by motorcycle riders and passengers can be severe or result in death. Motorcycle accident victims are at high risk for broken bones and fractures, head trauma, brain injury and spinal injuries including paralysis. These injuries may result in the need for extensive medical care, cause an inability to work, or a tragic loss of life.
Just as with automobile accidents, the establishment of fault after a motorcycle accident is critical. Prompt investigation of the accident by experienced attorneys and their experts is important to preserving the evidence necessary to prove fault for the accident. Establishing the contributing factors to the accident frequently involves investigating the scene of the accident, inspecting the motorcycle, and interviewing witnesses to the accident. Many times expert witnesses must be hired to perform these tasks. An attorney experienced in handling motorcycle accident cases can do this for you. The attorneys at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC have the experience, expertise and access to highly qualified expert witnesses to skillfully handle motorcycle accident cases in Tacoma, Pierce County, and throughout the State of Washington.
Because of the special considerations outlined above, and because the personal and monetary stakes can be so high, it is important to seek the advice of a qualified attorney if you have been involved in a motorcycle accident.
If you or someone you know has suffered from a motorcycle accident, contact Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC at (253) 383-5388 or click here to submit a simple case form. We promptly respond to internet inquiries. Our initial consultation is free of charge, and if you decide to retain us, we only get paid for our services if you receive monetary compensation.
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At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC we have the skill and experience to take on a wide range of personal injury cases throughout Washington state. From motor vehicle accidents to workplace injuries – our reputation and success rates keep opposing counsel on edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to some of the most common Washington personal injury questions. These are resources for injury victims.
Do I need a lawyer to file a personal injury lawsuit?
It is not necessary to retain a lawyer to file your personal injury lawsuit. You should base your decision to involve an attorney on a reasonable assessment of the pros and cons. Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC is a highly reputable personal injury law firm that has served Washington since 1959. We deliver value to our clients that far outweighs the fees we collect. But before you retain any attorney, you have to be satisfied that the benefits exceed the costs. We offer these points for your consideration.
What is the statute of limitations in Washington for personal injury?
A statute of limitations is state law; throughout the country, different states set different time limits for identical causes of action. Within each state, different causes of action have different time limits. In Washington, for personal injury lawsuits, the statute of limitations is three years.
How much does a personal injury lawyer cost?
The great advantage of filing a personal injury lawsuit is that most attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. That means that rather than charging upfront legal fees or an hourly rate, the attorney works without compensation until the case resolves through a jury verdict or settlement. At that time, the attorney takes a percentage of the award. The contingency fee arrangement helps plaintiffs who could not otherwise afford the costs of civil litigation to pursue just compensation without worrying about expenses. It also means that your ability to retain an excellent lawyer does not depend on your ability to pay, but rather on the attorney’s assessment of the strength of your case, or the importance of delivering justice to someone in your particular circumstances.
How do I file a personal injury lawsuit in Washington state?
At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC, we want our clients to have an accurate picture of what a personal injury lawsuit entails. The process is rarely quick and easy; defense counsel and insurance companies often employ delay tactics to wear a plaintiff down. We offer this page as a primer for anyone who has a cause of action and is considering a personal injury lawsuit.
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