Motorcycle Rules Different from Car Rules in Washington State
Riding a motorcycle can be a lot of fun, but it is without doubt, an activity that is extremely dangerous, especially for the inexperienced rider. It is true that motorcyclists sometimes break laws by popping wheelies, splitting lanes or riding on the shoulder. However, a lot of times, drivers don’t realize that motorcycle rules can be different from car rules, according to a KIRO 7 news report. For example, in Washington State, riding in the HOV lane as a single rider is perfectly legal as is riding next to each other in one lane. For motorcyclists, the biggest danger is that drivers of other vehicles do not pay attention to them or look out for them on the roadway when they change lanes or make a turn.
Also, in Washington State, insurance is not mandatory for motorcyclists. Given the high risk that is involved in motorcycle riding, I would certainly recommend that motorcyclists in Washington State have life insurance and motorcycle insurance. Motorcycle riders would also be well-advised to wear safety gear, especially a full-faced helmet to prevent serious head injuries or traumatic brain injuries that could be devastating. It would also be a good idea to wear gloves and leather apparel to prevent road rash, scrapes and burns, which can be extremely severe and painful.
Car drivers, for their part, need to remember that they share the road with other vehicles including motorcyclists. A motorist should also look for motorcyclists while changing lanes or making a turn. When a car hits a motorcycle, very often it is the motorcycle rider or passenger who suffers the most serious injuries.
If you have been injured in a Seattle motorcycle accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, please contact one of the skilled Seattle personal injury attorneys with The Bernard Law Group for a free and comprehensive consultation. Very often, motorcycle riders end up taking the blame for an accident because it is assumed that they were going too fast or weaving in and out of traffic. Our aggressive legal team led by Kirk Bernard will thoroughly investigate the motorcycle accident and make sure that your side of the story is heard. Call us today to discuss your Washington motorcycle accident claim.