Motorcycle Laws In Washington

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Riding your motorcycle through Washington can give you a sense of freedom — but it can also put you at risk of being in an accident. In busy cities, bikers can easily be struck by drivers not paying attention. Because a bike doesn’t offer the same protections as a car or truck, catastrophic injuries can occur.

If you obeyed all motorcycle laws in Washington and were still the victim of a collision, you may be entitled to file a personal injury claim to recover losses. At Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, our team of Washington car accident lawyers can offer the assistance you need to seek compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation at (206) 727 4000.

How Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After An Accident In Washington

Motorcycles don’t have airbags or similar protective structures that can prevent you from suffering serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries. These injuries can impact the rest of your life and leave you with medical bills you have no way of paying. 

At Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, we represent victims who have suffered losses in motorcycle accidents. Our seasoned team of Washington motorcycle accident lawyers offers services that include:

• Free initial consultation 
• Case assessment 
• Investigation into the accident 
• Negotiations with insurers to reach a settlement
• Court litigation if a settlement can’t be reached

We’ve been advocating for the people of Washington for decades and have recovered tens of millions of dollars in compensation. We offer compassionate representation to those who have suffered losses because of another party’s negligent or wrongful conduct. 

Our team is dedicated to fighting tirelessly for fair compensation for our clients. Contact our Washington personal injury attorneys to get started today. 

A Guide To Washington Motorcycle Laws

As a motorcycle rider, you want to be clear on the laws in the state so that you know what your rights are if there’s an accident. 

Motorcycle Licensing Requirements

To drive a motorcycle in Washington, you must possess a valid license with a motorcycle endorsement. Not doing so can result in fines and other penalties. To be able to get this endorsement, you need to:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have a valid WA state driver’s license
• Pass the two-wheel permit motorcycle knowledge test and riding skills test

If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or guardian must sign a consent form.

Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

You’re required to have insurance when riding a motorcycle. At a minimum, you need to carry $10,000 to cover damage to someone else’s property, $25,000 for injuries or death of another person, or $50,000 for injuries or death in one accident. 

Motorcycle Helmet Laws

All motorcycle riders must wear helmets, riding goggles or a face shield, and have side mirrors on their motorcycles. 

Lane Splitting

In Washington, motorcycles are forbidden from maneuvering between two lanes to pass through stopped or slowed traffic. Bikers are entitled to full use of the lane, which means that other drivers must give motorcycles that right and not try to crowd them out. Up to two motorcycles may ride next to each other in one lane. 

Motorcycle Laws For Passengers

You may carry a passenger if your bike is equipped with another seat. Otherwise, it’s against the law. Passengers must have their own footpegs or be in a bucket seat with a seat belt. Under no circumstances is a child under five allowed to ride a motorcycle in Washington. 

Driving Under The Influence

As in other states, it’s illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Washington. You can be charged with a DUI if you have the following within two hours of driving:

• Blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more
• THC concentration of 5.00 or more

You could face serious consequences if you’re over the limit in either of these cases. 

Contact Our Washington Motorcycle Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation 

By knowing the laws regarding motorcycles in the state, you can have a better idea of what your next steps should be after an accident. Washington operates under a fault-based system for traffic accidents, so proving that the other party holds the majority of the fault is essential.

At Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, we have decades of experience helping people recover damages after suffering because of another party’s negligent conduct. You can get the guidance you need to begin your claim by scheduling a free consultation. Contact us to speak with one of our skilled Washington motorcycle accident lawyers today.