Car Accidents | Motorcycle Accidents | Truck Accidents | Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle Accident Attorneys in Federal Way, WA
Taking a ride on a bicycle can be a fun way to get some exercise and transportation from one location to the next. Unfortunately, while bicycles may seem like a harmless means of getting from one place to another, there is no way to control the negligent drivers that may put cyclists in danger. Most bicyclists do not expect to be struck by a motor vehicle, but it is unfortunately more common than one would hope. Each year, there are nearly one thousand bicycle accident-related deaths in the United States. If you or a loved one has been injured in a bike accident, partner with one of our experienced Federal Way bicycle accident lawyers to get help with your claim.
At Premier Law Group, our bicycle accident lawyers fight aggressively to protect the rights and interests of injured victims. We are here to help our clients get their lives back on track following this life-altering incident. Our legal team aims to provide the dedicated and personalized representation needed to help clients obtain the financial compensation owed to them. We pride ourselves on offering top-of-the-line, award-winning legal service as we help you through this difficult time.
Washington Bicycle Accident Statute of Limitations
Personal injury claims are subject to a strict statute of limitations. Under Washington law (RCW § 4.16.080), you have three years from the date of a collision to file a legal claim. If you fail to comply with the statutory deadline, you may be denied your right to pursue compensation at all. Never wait too long to act after a bicycle accident. If you want assistance building your accident claim, reach out to our Federal Way, WA bicycle accident lawyer for immediate assistance.
Who is Liable for a Bicycle Accident in Washington?
Under Washington law (RCW 46.61.755), bicyclists have the duty to follow the rules of the road. If they fail to do so, they can be issued a traffic citation. At the same time, all motorists have a legal obligation to safely share the road with bicycles. As a rider, you have the right to control an entire lane. You should be able to rely on the fact that drivers will look out for your safety and well-being. Unfortunately, far too frequently, motorists fail to act with the due care that cyclists deserve. Some examples of driver negligence that lead to bicycle accidents include:
- Speeding or driving too fast for road conditions
- Running through red lights/stop signs
- Failure to yield the right-of-way to a bicycle
- Drivers crossing directly in front of a bike
- “Buzzing” a bicyclist
- Following a bike too closely (tailgating)
- Distracted driving, including text-while-driving
- Drunk driving or drugged driving
Washington is a comparative negligence state. In some cases, multiple parties—including the injured cyclist—may share liability for the crash. When this occurs, bicycle accident liability will be divided in proportion to each party’s level of “fault” for the collision. Insurance companies often use shared fault as a tactic to reduce their own liability. If you are deemed responsible for 30 percent of your own bike accident, your compensation will be reduced by 30 percent. Do not accept an unfair assignment of blame. Our Federal Way bicycle accident attorneys will protect your rights.
Can You Pursue Financial Compensation After a Bicycle Accident?
The large insurance companies are primarily focused on protecting their own bottom lines. Even when liability for a bicycle accident is established, they will try to settle a case for the lowest amount that they can. At Premier Law Group, our Washington personal injury lawyers aim to get our clients the maximum settlement or verdict. Depending on the nature and severity of your bicycle accident injuries, we may be able to help you recover financial support for:
- Bicycle repair/replacement
- Emergency room care
- Medical bills and related costs
- Psychological counseling
- Lost income
- Diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Mental distress
- Disfigurement
- Disability
- Wrongful death of a family member
If you are unsure of what damages you may pursue for your losses, our knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyers may be able to help.
Common Bicycle Accident Injuries in Federal Way
When a negligent driver hits a person riding a bicycle, the sheer size and mass of the vehicle may leave the cyclist with severe, life-altering injuries. Some injuries commonly suffered by bicycle accident victims include:
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Sprains
- Crushed limbs
- Loss of limbs
- Back, neck, or spine injuries
- Paralysis
- Burns
- Cuts or lacerations
- Internal bleeding
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Death
If you have been injured in a Federal Way bicycle accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for any losses you may have suffered as a result.
Why Hire a Federal Way Bicycle Accident Lawyer?
The bicycle accident claims process is complex. Defendants and big insurers do not make things easy for injured victims. We will help you navigate the process—ensuring that you understand your rights and the true value of your case. More specifically, our Federal Way bicycle accident attorneys are ready to:
- Conduct a no cost, comprehensive review of your bicycle accident claim
- Answer any questions that you have and carefully explain your options
- Investigate the bicycle accidents—gathering police reports, witness statements, medical records and all other evidence
- Prepare a well-supported personal injury claim
- Handle all correspondence and settlement discussions with insurers
Our goal is to get injured victims justice and full financial compensation. Injured cyclists deserve personalized representation from an experienced personal injury lawyer who they can rely on. We encourage you to look over handwritten reviews and video testimonials from previous clients we have helped. Our legal team looks forward to helping you build a strong bicycle accident claim as you work to get your life back on track.
Partner With an Experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Federal Way, WA
When a bicyclist is hit by a negligent driver, the victim may suffer damaging injuries or, worse, death. This is why it is so important for drivers to be alert and mindful when driving in areas where individuals are riding a bicycle. The victims for these severe accidents have a right to pursue financial compensation for their injuries and should partner with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer for help with their claim.
At Premier Law Group, our Federal Way, WA personal injury lawyers are committed to fighting for the rights and interests of injured bicycle accident victims. If you or your family member was hurt in a bike crash, we want to help you by providing you with the award-winning representation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, contact us here or call (206) 880-7518.