May is Motorcycle Awareness Month, and across Washington, riders are returning to the road as warmer weather arrives.
Unfortunately, this seasonal increase in motorcycle traffic also brings a rise in serious crashes and life-changing injuries. For drivers and riders alike, now is the time to focus on safety, visibility, and accountability. According to the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, motorcycle riders remain significantly overrepresented in fatal traffic accidents. Recent statewide data shows that while motorcycles account for a small percentage of vehicles on the road, motorcyclists make up a disproportionately high number of serious injury and fatal crashes. (wtsc.wa.gov)
A recent Spokane-area tragedy occurred north of Spokane on Newport Highway, where a motorcyclist was killed after a collision involving a pickup truck towing a horse trailer. Washington State Patrol investigators reported the fatal crash earlier this month, once again underscoring the vulnerability of motorcyclists in collisions with larger vehicles. (khq.com)
Crashes involving motorcycles often leave riders with catastrophic injuries and devastating financial consequences for families throughout Spokane County and across Washington State.
Motorcycle accidents are often not the fault of the rider, but they still frequently result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and long-term rehabilitation needs. Unlike occupants in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists have very little physical protection during a collision. Even riders wearing helmets and protective gear can suffer severe injuries caused by distracted driving, unsafe lane changes, speeding, or drivers failing to yield the right-of-way.
Motorcycle uninsured and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is also critically important in Washington State.
Many serious motorcycle crashes involve drivers who carry only minimum insurance coverage — or no insurance at all. Because motorcycle injuries often require extensive medical treatment and time away from work, minimum liability policies are rarely enough to fully compensate injured riders. UIM coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver does not have adequate insurance coverage.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Washington motorcycle accident, speaking with an experienced Spokane motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights. Our personal injury lawyers can help injured riders pursue compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future treatment costs. We deal with the insurance companies so you can focus on healing.
This Motorcycle Awareness Month, drivers throughout Washington should remember one simple message: look twice for motorcycles and share the road safely.
