As a motorcyclist in Washington, you must follow state law and local ordinances regulating the operation of motorcycles, required protective gear, insurance guidelines, and more. Given the complexity of these cases and the serious injuries bikers often sustain in accidents, you owe it to yourself to hire a Washington motorcycle accident lawyer who not only is familiar with these laws, but has a track record of getting results for clients.
Injury Risk, Allegations of Contributory Negligence Highlight Need for Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycling can be a thrilling and adventurous way to travel, but also more dangerous in general than auto travel. Because little stands between you and an impact in the event of a collision, severe injuries such as brain damage, road rash and spinal cord injuries can result.
That creates significant financial burden for accident victims and their families. Attorney Max Meyers will account for all of the damages you sustained and will fight to obtain the greatest financial recovery for you. Failure to account for all your short and long-term damages can leave you struggling to pay your medical bills and make up for time lost from work.
There is also the matter of contributory negligence to consider [RCW 4.22.005]. This is a common challenge that motorcyclists encounter in the claims process.
Under Washington law, your financial recovery can be limited or denied according to your own degree of fault (your contributory negligence) for the accident. Motorcyclists often face allegations of blame for not wearing a motorcycle helmet or defendants may make false, stereotypical claims that the motorcyclist was driving recklessly.
Whether you were partially or totally (or not at all) at fault in an accident is a question of fact – meaning, the insurer, court or jury will review the evidence and testimony and make a decision based on that. Make sure you have an attorney who can help counter allegations of contributory negligence and demonstrate that the defendant is to blame for all or most of your damages.
What Makes a Good Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
So what qualities should you look for in choosing the right motorcycle accident attorneys? He should of course be familiar with local and state motorcycle laws.
But this is not enough – he should have experience applying and working with those laws in actual cases like yours and using those laws to gain results. Your attorneys must be familiar with motorcycle accidents, ranging from minor to catastrophic injuries. He needs to have the required knowledge and resources to thoroughly investigate your accident and identify all your damages, both present and future.
Furthermore, your attorney should be familiar with the local courts and procedures. Even better, he should be familiar with the local judges, as the judge assigned to your case can also have an impact on your chances for success and it is important for your attorney to be familiar with that judge’s likes and dislikes.
Some Questions to Ask When Selecting an Attorney
So what sort of questions could you ask to see if an attorney is right for you? Just a few suggestions:
- How long have you been an attorney?
- How long have you been handling motorcycle accident cases?
- Will I have to pay you during my case, or do I only pay you if I get a financial recovery?
- What resources do you have to thoroughly investigate my accident and identify all of my damages?
- How long do these cases usually take?
- What kind of results have you been able to obtain in cases like mine?
- Do you have any references from past clients?
- Are you familiar with the local courts and judges?
The legal system is complex and it is best not to gamble with your legal rights or opportunity to obtain financial recovery for your injuries. Contact Max Meyers to set up a consultation with a personal injury attorney with experience dealing with local and statewide motorcycle laws. Call us now at 425-399-7000 or fill out our contact form.
In the meantime, check out our free eBook, Motorcycle Accident Secrets Unlocked.
