Tacoma, WA 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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- Natalie S.
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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- Jay R.
Hailey was super helpful and communication was always prompt and professional. Thank you for all your hard work Hailey and the rest of the team at Palace law.
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- Former Client
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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- Sharon R.
I highly recommend Palace Law for your work place injury. I would definitely use them again but hopefully I won’t have to.
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- John A.
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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- Chad F.
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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- Kelly Y.
Aria has been working with me and she is very thorough. I don’t get good sleep at night because of my injury but knowing that Palace Law is on the job gives me peace of mind specially, when they have employees like Aria thanks for letting me give my feedback and putting me in a position to give feedback.
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- Jacob H.
They have been entirely helpful since they accepted my case. Thorough and informative every step of the way. When I had an IME and no gas in my car they arranged for a ride to and from. After fighting tooth and nail myself with little to no results Palace Law stepped in and immediately Sedgwick stopped dragging me through the mud.
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.
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.
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.
