Seattle Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Helping Victims of Bike Accidents in Washington Recover the Compensation They deserve

At Carpenter & Zuckerman, we recognize the devastating impact bicycle accidents can have on the lives of victims. Our compassionate team of bicycle accidents attorneys is devoted to supporting our clients throughout their recovery journey, offering personalized attention and expert legal guidance every step of the way. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients and holding negligent parties accountable for their actions.

Contact our Seattle bicycle accident attorneys today for a free consultation!

Bicycle Laws in Washington

In Washington State, cyclists under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. Additionally, it is strongly recommended for all cyclists to wear helmets to reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of a crash.

Bicycles are generally considered vehicles, and cyclists are required to ride on the right side of the road, in the same direction as traffic. Cyclists should use the far-right lane unless they are preparing to turn left, passing another vehicle, or avoiding hazards.

Cyclists are required to obey all traffic signals and signs, including stop signs, yield signs, and traffic lights. They must also use hand signals to indicate turns or stops when riding on public roads.

Cyclists are encouraged to use designated bike lanes where available. When riding on roads without bike lanes, cyclists can use shared lanes or take the lane when necessary for safety, such as to avoid parked cars or debris.

Washington State law requires motorists to give at least three feet of clearance when passing a cyclist traveling in the same direction on a roadway. This law helps ensure the safety of cyclists by providing adequate space for passing vehicles.

Common Causes of Bicycle Accidents

A bicycle accident refers to any incident involving a collision, fall, or other mishap while riding a bicycle. These accidents can result in various degrees of injury to the cyclist, ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to severe injuries or even fatalities.

Common causes of bicycle accidents involving negligent drivers include:

• Failure to Yield: Drivers may fail to yield the right of way to cyclists, especially at intersections, crosswalks, or when making turns.
• Dooring: This occurs when a driver opens their car door without checking for approaching cyclists, causing a cyclist to collide with the door.
• Unsafe Passing: Drivers may pass cyclists too closely or attempt to pass without leaving sufficient space, leading to sideswipes or forced collisions.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers may be distracted by texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other activities, causing them to not notice cyclists on the road.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver's reaction time and ability to stop, increasing the likelihood of accidents with cyclists.
• Ignoring Traffic Signals and Signs: Drivers who run red lights, stop signs, or fail to obey other traffic signals can cause collisions with cyclists who have the right of way.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Impaired drivers are more likely to cause accidents, including those involving cyclists, due to reduced coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times.
• Aggressive Driving: Some drivers exhibit aggressive behavior towards cyclists, including tailgating, honking excessively, or attempting to intimidate cyclists on the road, which can lead to accidents.
• Poor Road Conditions: Negligence in maintaining roads, such as potholes, uneven pavement, or lack of proper signage, can contribute to accidents involving cyclists.
• Driver Inexperience or Inattention: Drivers who are inexperienced or not paying sufficient attention to the road may fail to anticipate the movements of cyclists, leading to accidents.

Damages and Compensation Available for Bicycle Accident Claims in Washington

In Washington, the damages and compensation available for bicycle accident claims can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the accident and the extent of the injuries. It's important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to fully understand your rights and the potential compensation you may be entitled to. However, here are some common types of damages that may be available in bicycle accident claims in Washington:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation may be available for current and future medical expenses related to the injuries sustained in the accident. This can include hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, medication, therapy, and other necessary medical treatments.
• Lost Wages: If the bicycle accident causes you to miss work or affects your ability to earn a living, you may be entitled to compensation for the wages you have lost and the potential future income you may have been able to earn.
• Pain and Suffering: Bicycle accidents can cause physical pain, emotional distress, and a decreased quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to address the non-economic damages you have experienced due to the accident.
• Property Damage: If your bicycle or other personal property was damaged or destroyed in the accident, you may be entitled to reimbursement or compensation for the repair or replacement costs.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If the bicycle accident results in permanent disability, disfigurement, or loss of bodily function, you may be eligible for compensation to account for the long-term impact on your life and potential loss of enjoyment.
• Loss of Consortium: In cases where a bicycle accident causes the loss of companionship, affection, or support from a spouse, the injured person's spouse may be able to seek compensation for the loss of consortium.

Washington's Comparative Fault Rule

Washington follows a comparative fault rule, also known as comparative negligence, which is a legal principle that can affect the amount of compensation a person can recover in a bicycle accident case when they are found to be partially at fault for the accident. 

Comparative fault is based on the idea that multiple parties involved in an accident may share some degree of responsibility for the incident. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.