The beautiful vistas in Washington combined with the economic benefits of motorcycles make these bikes a common sight in Bellevue, the high-tech and retail center of the Eastside. With the increased use of motorcycles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there has been a steady, although inconsistent, increase in motorcycle-related accidents since 2001, and Bellevue is no exception.
Attorney J.P. Pendergast, of Pendergast Law, is dedicated to making sure that those injured in motorcycle collisions due to another’s negligence have the chance to obtain justice. He has a proven track record of making those responsible for injuries accountable and for obtaining fair and adequate compensation for the injuries they’ve caused. To learn more about your legal rights and options, call a Bellevue personal injury attorney at 888-539-9211 for a free consultation.
Your Health Is The Priority
The most important thing after a motorcycle crash is to make sure you seek immediate medical attention, even if you believe that you have not been seriously injured. Having medical care as soon as possible will allow you to determine whether that slight pain in your elbow or leg is something that needs medical treatment – extensive or otherwise, short- or long-term.
While there are other factors that may determine whether you can pursue legal action, having complete medical records and an uninterrupted timeline regarding treatment and care are essential when figuring out what compensatory damages you are entitled to.
Determining Fault In A Bellevue Motorcycle Accident
A motorcycle accident may be caused by many factors, but when the underlying cause is negligence or recklessness, the law gives you certain options. Whether your accident occurred on the I-405 or while taking a scenic ride around Lake Washington, if your accident was caused by the following examples of negligence, you may have the right to file a civil suit:
- Distracted driving
- Inattentive driving
- Speeding
- Unsafe lane changes
- Poorly maintained or otherwise hazardous roadways
In any event, the accident was not caused by you, but you are the one who must recover from it. Knowing who might be responsible may enable you to receive the money needed to pay for the medical bills and loss of income as well as receive compensation for the pain, suffering and disruption to your life caused by the motorcycle accident.
Put Time On Your Side
Knowing who is responsible for the injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident is only part of the equation. You will need to make a claim against them before you can hold them accountable. If you are unable to settle that claim informally, you will be required to file a lawsuit to protect your rights. In Washington, that means that you will have to file your lawsuit within one year following the accident. There are additional requirements that you must follow if you’re seeking compensation from a governmental entity. Failure to follow the laws on these subjects will mean that you may be barred from ever receiving compensation from those responsible, regardless of the severity of your injury. This is not a risk you should take.
Motorcycle Accident Recoveries
- A $225,000 recovery for a motorcycle accident leg fracture.
Getting The Compensation You Need To Recover After An Accident In Bellevue
Making sure you are adequately compensated for the injuries you or a loved one suffered as a result of a motorcycle accident is best left to someone who is experienced in obtaining that compensation for the victims and someone with a detailed understanding of Washington laws. Our Bellevue motorcycle accident lawyers at Pendergast Law have the skills and commitment to hold the responsible parties liable for the damages they’ve caused. Contact us today to find out how we can help.