As of now, motorcycle drivers must possess liability coverage and demonstrate proof of insurance.
PHOTO Courtsey| Freepik
Washington State’s mandatory automobile insurance law no longer grants an exemption to motorcyclists.
If you’ve sustained injuries in a collision, reach out to a Seattle motorcycle accident lawyer at Colburn Law without delay.
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in Washington
All individuals operating motor vehicles or motorcycles in Washington must maintain liability insurance, choosing from the following options:
1. Carry liability insurance with the following minimum limits:
– $25,000 for injuries or death to another person in a single car accident.
– $50,000 for injuries or death to two or more individuals in a single car accident.
– $10,000 for damage to another person’s property.
2. Apply for a certificate of deposit with the Department of Licensing to cover liability insurance costs.
3. Obtain a liability bond of at least $60,000 from an authorized surety bond company in Washington.
4. Self-insure as a company if it possesses 26 or more vehicles.
Must Motorcyclists Present Proof of Insurance
Certainly. Once you acquire the required liability insurance, you will receive a proof-of-insurance card validating your motorcycle accident insurance or automobile accident insurance.
Possessing proof of insurance is not just crucial in the event of a car accident; it is also mandatory if you are pulled over by a law enforcement officer.
Failing to display proof of insurance to a police officer will lead to a traffic infraction, presently set at $450.
Insurance Coverage Motorcyclists should Have
Alongside maintaining compulsory liability insurance, it is highly recommended for motorcyclists to carry increased liability coverage, especially tailored to their individual financial situations.
For example, individuals with substantial net worth should opt for elevated liability coverage to safeguard their assets.
Exceptions to the Mandatory Auto Insurance Law
The Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner outlines specific exemptions to the mandatory auto insurance law. This regulation excludes the following registered vehicles:
- State or publicly-owned vehicles
- Certain horseless carriage vehicles aged at least 40 years
- Motor scooters
- Mopeds
- Contract carriers under the jurisdiction of the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission
Although auto insurance is not required by law for these vehicles, drivers may still be financially liable for damages to other motorists due to their own negligence, as emphasized by the Insurance Commissioner.
What does Personal Injury Protection Entail
Motorcyclists ought to have Personal Injury Protection to offer assistance in the event of a motorcycle injury accident.
PIP coverage encompasses payments for medical bills, lost earnings, and essential services.
Given the high likelihood of severe injuries if a motorcycle driver is injured, carrying PIP becomes crucial.
In addition, motorcycle drivers should maintain Uninsured Motorist/Underinsured Motorist insurance.
Consider opting for additional insurance coverage beyond the mandatory liability insurance required by the Washington government.
While liability insurance covers injuries and damages to other drivers in accidents where you are at fault, acquiring various insurance options offers extra protection.
This can help avoid out-of-pocket expenses for medical bills and repairs in various situations.
Consider these additional types of insurance coverage:
1. Collision coverage: Protects against physical damage to your motorcycle resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object.
2. Comprehensive coverage: Safeguards your motorcycle from non-collision-related damages, such as vandalism, theft, flooding, or fire.
3. Medical payments coverage: Covers medical expenses for both you and your passengers following an at-fault accident.
4. Uninsured/underinsured motorist bodily injury coverage: Provides coverage for medical bills in the event of an accident caused by another driver who lacks sufficient liability insurance.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
At Bernard Law Group, we actively work towards promoting motorcycle safety and representing riders who find themselves in accidents.
To ensure safety, it is crucial to comprehend the typical causes of motorcycle accidents.
Driver Negligence
One of the primary causes of motorcycle accidents stems from driver negligence, encompassing actions such as failing to yield the right-of-way, engaging in distracted driving, and displaying reckless behavior.
Our firm remains steadfast in its commitment to holding negligent drivers accountable for their actions and pursuing compensation on behalf of injured motorcyclists.
Road Conditions
Motorcyclists face significant hazards when road conditions are suboptimal.
Hazards such as potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces can result in accidents.
If you’ve sustained injuries due to unsafe road conditions, our attorneys possess the expertise to investigate the root cause and initiate legal action against the responsible parties.
Weather Factors
Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or ice, can heighten the challenges of motorcycle riding.
Diminished visibility and slippery roads increase the likelihood of accidents. In cases where weather played a role in your accident, we will thoroughly evaluate the circumstances and pursue appropriate compensation.
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