Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Tacoma Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The state of Washington is considered a motorcycle-friendly state and is a perfect place to explore on a motorcycle. Yes, it does rain—a lot—but the unparalleled natural beauty you will encounter makes a little rain seem like nothing! In fact, the Cascade Loop is an absolute must-see. At 444 miles, it’s a two or three-day trip that features vineyards, mountain peaks, waterfalls, lush forests, orchards, and nature at its most beautiful.

There are many more amazing places to see in Washington state and in and around Tacoma, including Washington Route 509 (SW Dash Point Way) which takes you through Tacoma. On this route, you will see a lighthouse at Dash Point, a breathtaking mountain view from a cliffside restaurant, and cruise the urban environment of Tacoma. Of course, more motorcyclists mean more motorcycle accidents. If you are the victim of a motorcycle accident, it could be extremely beneficial to speak to a Tacoma motorcycle accident attorney from Palace Law.

Contact our Tacoma motorcycle accident lawyer by calling (253) 544-5935 today!

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

According to NSC Injury Facts, while motorcycles make up only 3 percent of all registered vehicles, and 0.6 percent of all vehicle miles traveled across the United States, motorcycles accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities. The vast majority (61 percent) of motorcycle fatalities occur in urban settings, and, contrary to what many people believe, 89 percent of motorcycle accidents occur in good weather. Motorcycle accidents are about equally split between daylight and night-time, and about 59 percent of motorcyclists involved in an accident were wearing a helmet. Overall, in 2019, motorcyclists were nearly 29 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a car collision.

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I had an outstanding experience working with Ciana on a personal injury matter. Without her expertise, I would have never realized that I even had a case. Ciana’s attention to detail and deep understanding of personal injury law were invaluable. She guided me through every step with professionalism and care, ensuring I understood the process and felt supported. Thanks to her diligence and expertise, what could have been overlooked became a well-handled case. I highly recommend Ciana to anyone needing a knowledgeable and dedicated legal professional.

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They are an amazing team and made my case an easy process to cope with. They stayed in great communication with me every step of the way and fought to maximize my profit. Palace Law is hands down THE BEST law firm I’ve dealt with. Attorney John H and assistant Hailey make an amazing team.

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I’ve spent the last 7 years working with them and it hasn’t been a easy ride but they work very hard to get the best outcome for there clients. Sandra has done an outstanding job keeping me informed of the process and keeping me feel safe and secure with my future. I couldn’t of asked for a better person and team to help me during this stressful time and working hard to get me what I deserved.

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Exceptional legal representation! My experience with Kim was outstanding. She was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and dedicated to ensuring I received the outcome I deserved. Kim’s communication throughout the process was clear and timely, providing me with peace of mind during a challenging time.

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Why Should You Choose Palace Law Following Your Motorcycle Accident?

The defendant’s attorney may use biker stereotypes to minimize the compensation you deserve. Many people still believe that motorcyclists ride recklessly, but most riders travel for practical reasons—commuting to work and saving on gas. You need a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney in Tacoma who can overcome these misperceptions and pursue a fair settlement for your recovery.

At Palace Law, we carefully assess potential liability and use every available resource to establish responsibility and pursue fair compensation for your future. When you choose Palace Law, you’re choosing an attorney with years of courtroom experience to shoulder the burden and advocate for you. Our four attorneys have each tried over 200 cases, and together, our team brings more than two hundred years of experience with personal injury claims.

We are proud to have earned over 1,500 positive client reviews, and we offer a free consultation and affordable rates. Our team is available 24/7 to answer your questions—and if your injuries prevent you from traveling, we will come to you. We thoroughly assess the facts of your motorcycle accident and develop a comprehensive plan to help you secure the settlement you need to move forward with your life.

Our deep knowledge of Tacoma’s roadways, local traffic laws, and regional trends allows us to provide targeted guidance based on real-world experience. We have represented clients throughout Pierce County, addressing challenges that motorcyclists face from local government agencies, insurance carriers, and the court system. This hands-on familiarity with the legal landscape helps us anticipate tactics used against motorcyclists and respond effectively. If you want reliable counsel after a crash, our team stands ready to help.

What Are the Primary Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

Every motorcycle accident has unique circumstances, but certain factors frequently cause these collisions, including:

The failure of drivers to properly look for motorcyclists stands as the leading cause of motorcycle accidents in Tacoma and across the country. Because motorcycles are smaller, other drivers may not notice them—due to obstructions, glare, or not paying full attention.
Intersections pose significant risks, particularly when drivers make left-hand turns in front of oncoming motorcyclists. Drivers may fail to see a motorcyclist or misjudge their speed. These turns are a leading factor, often resulting in catastrophic impacts when a motorcyclist crashes into the side of a vehicle.
Motorcycles are more susceptible to hazardous road conditions. Slippery surfaces, roadway debris, uneven pavement, potholes, and loose gravel often create devastating risks for motorcyclists while causing little trouble for larger vehicles.
Head-on collisions between a motorcycle and another vehicle almost always result in severe injuries or fatalities for the motorcyclist. Most head-on crashes happen at high speeds, elevating the risk for those on motorcycles.
Motorcycle lane splitting (when a rider travels between two lanes of cars) is another common factor. Although legal only in California, lane splitting brings motorcyclists dangerously close to other vehicles, increasing accident risk.
Reckless driving, impaired driving, distracted driving, and fatigued driving are all widespread causes. Distracted driving is the top cause of all types of vehicle accidents. Fatigued driving is increasingly common as Americans deal with sleep deprivation. Impaired and reckless driving also contribute substantially to motorcycle accidents.
Sharp turns and corners are far more challenging for motorcycle riders than drivers of passenger vehicles. Maintaining control through a sudden curve can be difficult, making single-vehicle crashes more likely on a motorcycle.

Local crash reports in Pierce County often cite driver inattention and failure to yield as causes of serious motorcycle accidents at intersections such as Pacific Avenue, South 38th Street, and along the I-5 corridor in Tacoma. Construction zones and road work in these areas can increase hazards with unexpected debris or narrow lanes. Understanding these scenarios can help motorcyclists navigate both city streets and rural routes with greater awareness and caution.

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Common Injuries Following a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accident injuries are often severe. Most catastrophic and fatal injuries occur when the front of the motorcycle takes the impact. Some of the most common injuries from motorcycle accidents include:

Traumatic brain injuries frequently result from motorcycle crashes, especially when riders do not wear helmets. When the head strikes pavement, the brain can suffer concussions, TBIs, or other serious trauma.
Spinal cord injuries are another frequent result when a motorcyclist is hit by a vehicle. Accidents may cause paralysis or significant back injuries that lead to chronic pain and long-lasting issues.
Damage to internal organs and internal bleeding can occur from blunt-force trauma—impacts from hard objects that do not break the skin—or penetration trauma when glass, metal, or other debris pierces the body.
Lower extremity injuries are very common for motorcyclists. Leg injuries—including bone fractures—happen more often than soft-tissue trauma. Wrists and arms can also break when a rider instinctively reaches out during a fall.
Road rash develops when a motorcyclist slides along the road after a crash, causing serious abrasions. Road rash can range from minor to severe, sometimes resulting in infection or permanent scarring.

Tacoma-area hospitals and trauma centers like MultiCare Tacoma General frequently treat patients suffering from these trauma types. Quick medical attention can make a major difference in recovery. Treatment for traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries often requires extensive rehabilitation, ongoing therapy, and significant lifestyle changes for riders and their families. Recovery takes time and often demands ongoing support from medical professionals and legal teams alike.

Complexities Associated With Motorcycle Accidents

Many people hold inaccurate ideas about the 'typical' motorcycle rider. In reality, most motorcyclists do not drive recklessly or at dangerous speeds. Sometimes, jurors may unfairly blame the rider even when the motorcyclist had the right-of-way. These biases make it vital for a Tacoma motorcycle accident lawyer to address jurors’ misconceptions if your claim proceeds to trial.

Your Palace Law motorcycle attorney works to pursue a fair settlement despite any initial prejudice, drawing on a strong understanding of local attitudes and legal procedures. Your attorney will also ensure the claim follows statutory deadlines. In Washington, you have three years from the date of your motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim, or you risk forfeiting your right to pursue compensation.

Motorcycle accident cases often require careful review of police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage from intersections or highways across Tacoma. Our attorneys regularly examine accident sites—whether at busy crossroads like Pacific Avenue or on winding stretches near Point Defiance—for evidence that may influence liability or damages. The complexity of these cases can increase if multiple vehicles are involved or if a government entity is responsible for hazardous road conditions. With experience in the local court system, we guide clients through each step in the claim process with clarity and focus.

Why Do You Need a Tacoma Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

Handling an accident claim alone is rarely a good idea, except in very minor incidents with no injuries and minimal missed work. Motorcycle claims involve unique complexities that are challenging for non-lawyers to navigate. Insurance companies focus on limiting payouts to protect their profits. Once you have legal representation, insurance companies know your attorney will advocate for your right to a fair settlement.

Washington follows a comparative fault rule, which means your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially responsible for the crash. Insurance adjusters might argue for partial fault even when a motorcyclist followed all traffic signals. Attorneys often approach these cases by gathering facts and analyzing evidence to strengthen your position. The nuances of negotiating settlements in Pierce County can differ from other jurisdictions, so working with a Tacoma-based legal team is important when dealing with regional insurance carriers.

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How a Tacoma Motorcycle Accident Attorney From Palace Law Can Help

An experienced and skilled Tacoma motorcycle accident attorney from Palace Law will work to secure a fair settlement that may cover your medical expenses (both now and in the future), lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our team conducts thorough investigations to establish liability. After identifying liable parties, we will advocate for the compensation you need as you recover and plan your future.

If you were injured in a Tacoma-area motorcycle accident, you may have questions about how long the claims process takes or what local laws mean for your recovery. Attorneys familiar with Pierce County courts can explain what you should expect—from filing an initial claim to possible negotiation or trial. Our team draws on decades of experience with Washington’s court systems and answers common questions about documentation, interacting with insurance companies, and what to expect during legal proceedings.

Contact a Palace Law motorcycle accident attorney by calling (253) 544-5935 today to ensure your rights and your future are properly protected.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Tacoma

After a motorcycle accident in Tacoma, your immediate actions can significantly impact your safety and your rights. First, seek medical attention—even if you do not think your injuries are severe. Some injuries may not appear right away, and prompt medical care creates important documentation for your case. Notify law enforcement so an official accident report is created. This report is key evidence in any personal injury claim. Gather information from all involved parties, including names, contact details, and insurance information, and if possible, take photos of the scene, damage, and any visible injuries.

If you are able, look for witnesses and request their contact information. Witness statements can clarify what led to the crash and help establish liability. Avoid discussing fault or making statements that could undermine your position, and only provide factual information to the responding officers. In Tacoma and throughout Washington, you must also notify your own insurance company promptly. Do not sign any settlement offers before you have talked to a qualified attorney familiar with motorcycle law in the area. Keep all receipts, medical records, and documents linked to your accident to make sure you and your lawyer have the information necessary for your claim.

Your actions after a crash, especially in busy areas like Pacific Avenue or along highways such as I-705 and SR 509, are crucial. Timely, organized steps not only protect your health but also create a clear record that supports your right to pursue compensation under Washington law.

Washington State Motorcycle Laws & Local Considerations

Washington state law requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear helmets that meet federal safety standards. The law also mandates extra safety equipment, such as eye protection if the motorcycle does not have a windshield. Riders must hold a valid motorcycle endorsement and comply with all motorcycle-specific traffic rules. Tacoma’s dense city streets and active construction zones mean motorcycle riders should watch closely for changing road conditions and posted detours. Lane splitting is not legal in Washington, and breaking this rule can affect your rights if an accident occurs.

Washington follows a comparative negligence framework, meaning multiple parties may share fault after a crash. This rule can influence the compensation a rider collects, depending on findings of liability. In Tacoma, major intersections like South 19th Street, Pearl Street, and the areas near the Tacoma Dome carry special risks due to heavy traffic, especially during events or rush hour. Riders in these areas need a solid grasp of statewide motorcycle laws and traffic rules enforced by local agencies. Staying informed helps protect your rights and lowers the risk of preventable crashes.

If you have questions about how state and local rules affect your claim, working with an attorney who understands the Pierce County court system and Tacoma’s regulatory landscape can streamline the process and reduce stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Tacoma?

In Washington, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long puts your right to recover damages at risk, so start the process as soon as possible.

Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes. Washington uses a comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you share some responsibility for the crash. However, your damages may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What should I do if the other driver’s insurance company contacts me?

Always be cautious when speaking with another party’s insurer. You are not required to give a recorded statement and should avoid discussing the details of the crash before talking to your attorney. Consider seeking legal advice before accepting any offers or signing paperwork.

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