Alaska Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Serving all of Alaska · Free consultation · Contingency fee — no fee unless we win

Quick answer

If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash in Alaska, you generally have two years from the crash to file an injury claim (AS 09.10.070), and Alaska's pure comparative fault rule (AS 09.17.060) means you can recover even if you were partly at fault. Alaska is an at-fault state, so the driver who caused the crash — usually through their liability insurance — is responsible. Motorcyclists are far more exposed than drivers, and insurers often unfairly blame the rider, so how the crash is investigated matters. Choate Law Firm has represented injured Alaskans since 1980, from our Juneau office, statewide. Consultations are free and we are paid only if we recover for you. Call (907) 586-4490.

Alaska's motorcycle helmet law

Alaska requires helmets for motorcycle operators under 18, permit holders, and all passengers; a licensed operator 18 or older is not required to wear one (AS 28.35.245). Not wearing a helmet does not automatically defeat your claim, but insurers may raise it — another reason to have a lawyer protect your rights. Operating a motorcycle on Alaska roads also requires the proper motorcycle license class (AS 28.15.011).

Why motorcycle claims are different

Motorcyclists suffer more serious injuries and face more bias than other drivers. Common crash causes include drivers who fail to yield or turn left across a rider's path, distracted driving, unsafe lane changes, and Alaska's ice, gravel, and wildlife hazards. Because a rider has little physical protection, injuries are often severe — road rash, fractures, spinal and brain injuries. We work with accident-reconstruction experts to show what really happened.

Damages and cost

You may recover economic damages (medical bills, lost income, bike repair) and noneconomic damages (pain, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life); Alaska caps only the noneconomic portion (AS 09.17.010). We work on a contingency fee — no fee unless we recover for you, and we advance case costs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I still recover if I wasn't wearing a helmet? Often yes. Alaska uses pure comparative fault (AS 09.17.060); helmet use may affect a claim but does not automatically bar it, especially for licensed adult riders who are not required to wear one.

How long do I have to file? Generally two years from the crash (AS 09.10.070).

What if the driver blames me? Insurers frequently blame riders. Independent investigation and reconstruction can rebut that. Your recovery is reduced only by your actual share of fault, not eliminated.

What does it cost? Nothing up front — contingency fee.

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Disclaimer

This page is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case. Attorneys at Choate Law Firm LLC are licensed in Alaska, California, Hawaii, New York, and Washington (specific jurisdiction varies by attorney).

Attorneys in our firm are licensed in Alaska, California, Hawaii, New York, and Washington (specific jurisdiction varies by attorney). Content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every legal claim is unique and there is always risk involved in litigation. The statements on this site are not a guarantee that we will agree to represent you, pursue a specific litigation strategy, or achieve a particular result. Communications to Choate Law Firm LLC for the purpose of obtaining legal representation are protected by applicable attorney-client privilege, however there is no attorney-client relationship until a written agreement is signed by both you and Choate Law Firm LLC. All photographs ©2016 by Jon Choate. 

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