The motorcyclist was taken to Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett, WSP says
SKAGIT, WA, (September 05, 2024) - An elderly man from Clinton was seriously hurt following a Thursday afternoon crash in Fidalgo Island, Skagit County, according to the Washington State Patrol (WSP).
Harold Hagglund, an 82-year-old resident of Clinton, was seriously injured after his motorcycle got hit by a car in Skagit County Thursday afternoon, according to the State Patrol.
Based on preliminary findings, the motorcycle rider was going south on State Highway 20 around 4:26 p.m. and traveling behind it was a 2005 Toyota Scion. As the vehicles entered the roundabout at Miller Road, the Toyota driver attempted to pass the bike rider at the roundabout exit and, in the process, struck the motorcycle, WSP said.
Harold Hagglund, age 82, was operating the motorcycle. He was flown to Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett for treatment.
Authorities say “improper passing” may have led to the collision.
This is an ongoing investigation.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2019 there were an estimated 84,000 motorcyclists injured in 2019.
Candice Bond, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, said that it is imperative to have an independent probe conducted to preserve evidence for a victim in cases such as this.
“In addition to a police report, an attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash,” said Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal.
“Your lawyer has the resources to hire expert witnesses, conduct drivers’ background checks, locate witnesses to the crash and review applicable insurance coverage.”
PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM
Pending the investigation results, Harold Hagglund may have the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, noted that the stress and worry following a serious injury could be overwhelming, disrupting all aspects of life, including family, work, finances, and overall quality of life.
“It is vital for victims to hire an attorney when filing a personal injury claim, which allows them to negotiate with an insurance company on behalf of a client,” Formica said.
“Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their clients to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”
Newsline's national legal analysts Candice Bond and Stefano Formica are experienced in motorcycle accidents, and if you or a family member need help they are available for a free consultation to guide you
(Candice Bond, Managing Partner, and Stefano Formica, Of Counsel, at Bond Legal, are the national legal analysts for Newsline. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).