Driver Arrested After Fatal Spokane Motorcycle Crash

On August 28th, 2025, a motorcyclist was killed in a crash with a car near East Sprague Avenue and Custer road. Spokane Valley deputies arrived at the scene at approximately 9:40pm, where a bystander was already performing CPR on the motorcycle rider. Despite multiple life saving attempts, the motorcyclist died at the scene.  

Deputies arrested the driver of the other vehicle, a Mustang, on suspicion of vehicular homicide after observing signs of cannabis use. The officers ordered a blood sample and booked the driver, identified as Darla Stoffel, into Spokane County Jail.

Motorcycle accidents like these occur in an instant, and are usually unprecedented. After the accident clears, other responsibilities quickly begin to make a head. Survivors of an accident are left with injuries, medical bills, lost income, and various other expenses. Proving fault or negligence in a motorcycle accident personal injury claim ensures that you are able to recover the compensation owed to you, and the right lawyer can provide guidance for every step of the way. At Bernard Law, our Spokane motorcycle crash attorneys have the resources you need to file a successful personal injury claim and are ready to help. Call us today at (206) 984-8719 to schedule a free case review, so you can focus on healing while we fight for the right compensation you need after your motorcycle accident.

Proving Fault in a Spokane Motorcycle Accident

In order to receive compensation in a Spokane motorcycle accident claim, the other party has to be proven negligent. There are steps that an injured party must take to show that the other driver is at fault for the crash that occurred, and there are a number of ways to show that. To file a personal injury claim you must gather evidence such as witness statements, medical bill documents, and a copy of the police report. When a driver fails to use reasonable care and injures someone, that driver becomes liable for any crash related harm for the injured party. 

Our experienced motorcycle accident injury lawyers at Bernard Law know the types of evidence that must be collected to file a strong claim in a personal injury settlement, so that you can focus on rest and recovery. 

Evidence That Can Establish Liability in a Motorcycle Crash

Evidence plays a central role in any motorcycle accident case. Without proper documentation and testimony, injured drivers struggle to prove who caused the crash. Injured victims and their attorneys must move quickly to secure this evidence before it is lost or altered.

Police Reports After a Spokane Motorcycle Accident

Police officers who respond to motorcycle accidents in Spokane create detailed reports of the incident. These reports often include diagrams of the crash scene, witness names, and the officer’s initial assessment of who was responsible. Although the report may not always serve as conclusive proof of liability, it serves as a foundational piece of evidence that lawyers can use to support a client’s claim.

The Importance of Immediate Reporting

Calling law enforcement immediately after a crash ensures that an official record exists. Delays can make it more difficult to connect the negligent actions of another driver to the injuries suffered. An attorney will use these timely records to reinforce the narrative of fault.

Witness Testimony in Motorcycle Crash Cases

Eyewitnesses who saw the crash unfold can provide invaluable perspectives. Their testimony may confirm that the other driver was speeding, distracted, or impaired at the time of the collision. Lawyers in Spokane often track down these witnesses early. As time passes, witnesses forget details and recall events less clearly.

Using Multiple Perspectives to Strengthen a Claim

Having more than one witness helps create a stronger case. Different perspectives can fill in gaps, and together, they present a clearer picture of what happened on the road. A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer will organize these accounts in a way that supports the injured rider’s story.

How Negligence Is Determined in a Spokane Motorcycle Accident Claim

Negligence lies at the core of proving fault in a motorcycle crash. In Washington, the legal system requires that the injured party show that the other driver failed to act with reasonable care.

Showing Duty of Care on the Road

Every driver in Spokane has a duty to operate their vehicle safely. This means following traffic signals, maintaining a safe speed, and remaining alert. Proving fault often begins with establishing that the negligent driver violated this basic duty of care owed to others on the road.

Breach of Duty and Its Consequences

When a driver speeds through an intersection, drives under the influence, or fails to yield, they breach their duty of care. This breach creates the foundation for a personal injury claim and highlights the driver’s role in causing the motorcycle accident.

Causation in Spokane Motorcycle Crash Claims

Even if a breach is proven, attorneys must show a direct link between the negligent action and the injuries sustained. Attorneys refer to this step as causation. For example, if a driver failed to yield and struck a motorcyclist, the injuries clearly stem from that negligent act. Establishing causation ensures that the injured rider has a strong claim for damages.

Proving Damages Resulted From the Crash

After proving causation, attorneys must show that the crash caused real damages. These may include medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. By connecting the negligent act to tangible losses, attorneys solidify the basis for compensation.

The Role of Expert Testimony in Spokane Motorcycle Accident Cases

Attorneys frequently rely on expert testimony to help prove fault in complex motorcycle crash cases. Experts bring specialized knowledge that can clarify details for judges and juries.

Accident Reconstruction Specialists in Spokane

Accident reconstruction experts use physical evidence such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and roadway conditions to recreate the events leading up to the crash. They analyze the evidence to provide persuasive proof of how and why the crash occurred.

Explaining Speed and Impact Through Science

Reconstruction specialists often calculate vehicle speeds, angles of impact, and stopping distances. This scientific approach can demonstrate that the other driver’s actions directly caused the crash, leaving little room for dispute.

Medical Experts Linking Injuries to the Crash

Medical professionals can also provide expert testimony. They connect the injuries sustained directly to the motorcycle accident, ensuring that opposing parties cannot claim the injuries occurred elsewhere. Their testimony adds credibility to the damages portion of the case.

How Comparative Negligence Affects Spokane Motorcycle Accident Claims

In Washington, the comparative negligence system allows courts to assign fault between parties. Even if the motorcyclist is found partially at fault, they may still recover compensation, although the amount is reduced by their percentage of fault.

What Happens When Multiple Parties Are Responsible

In some Spokane motorcycle crashes, more than one driver may contribute to the accident. Lawyers then determine the percentage of responsibility each party bears. This complexity makes legal guidance essential for injured riders.

Why Legal Representation Matters in Comparative Negligence Cases

Without experienced representation, insurance companies may attempt to exaggerate the rider’s share of fault to reduce payouts. A skilled Spokane motorcycle accident attorney protects the client from unfair blame and works to ensure full and fair compensation.

Types of Compensation Available After a Motorcycle Crash

Victims of a Spokane motorcycle crash often face overwhelming expenses in the aftermath of a serious accident. Medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll of the incident can feel impossible to manage without legal support. Personal injury claims allow injured riders to pursue financial recovery for both tangible and intangible losses. The compensation available depends on the facts of the case, but a strong claim ensures that victims are not left to shoulder the burden of another driver’s negligence.

Medical Expenses From a Spokane Motorcycle Accident

Medical care is often the most immediate and significant cost after a motorcycle collision. Riders have little protection on the road, which means injuries are usually severe. Medical expense compensation covers emergency treatment and the long term care many victims require.

Emergency Treatment and Hospital Stays

After a motorcycle crash in Spokane, emergency responders often transport victims to the nearest hospital for urgent care. Treatment can involve surgery, intensive care, and lengthy hospital stays. These costs add up quickly, and a personal injury claim helps ensure that the injured rider is not left responsible for expenses caused by another driver’s negligence.

Ongoing Rehabilitation and Therapy Needs

Even after hospital discharge, many riders face months or even years of physical therapy, occupational therapy, or rehabilitation services. Compensation for these treatments is crucial to helping victims regain independence and return to daily life.

Future Medical Costs for Long Term Injuries

Some motorcycle crash injuries never fully heal, requiring ongoing medical care or future surgeries. Compensation for future medical costs allows victims to plan for the reality of long term treatment and ensures they have access to the care they will need down the road.

Lost Income and Diminished Earning Capacity

When injuries prevent a motorcyclist from returning to work, the financial stress can be devastating. Compensation for lost income accounts for the wages missed while recovering. In severe cases, victims may also be entitled to damages for diminished earning capacity if they can no longer return to the same profession.

Recovering Wages During Recovery

Even missing weeks of work can leave families struggling to pay bills. Compensation for lost wages replaces the income that victims would have earned had they not been injured in the crash.

Proving Lost Income With Documentation

Pay stubs, tax returns, and employer statements help prove the amount of wages lost due to the accident. This documentation strengthens the claim and ensures victims receive the financial support they deserve.

Compensation for Permanent Loss of Income

In the most serious Spokane motorcycle crashes, injuries may prevent a victim from ever working again. Courts award compensation for permanent loss of income to acknowledge this life altering impact and provide long term financial support.

Pain and Suffering After a Spokane Motorcycle Crash

Not all damages are financial. Pain and suffering compensation addresses the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life that come after a serious motorcycle accident.

Physical Pain From Severe Injuries

Broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries leave victims with lasting physical pain. Compensation for pain acknowledges this suffering and recognizes the profound effect it has on a victim’s life.

Emotional Trauma Following a Motorcycle Accident

Accidents often leave victims struggling with emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, or post traumatic stress. Compensation for emotional trauma helps victims seek the support they need to cope with these invisible injuries.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life in Accident Claims

When injuries prevent victims from participating in activities they once loved, the loss is significant. Compensation for loss of enjoyment of life ensures that these non economic damages are valued as part of the claim.

Property Damage Compensation After a Spokane Motorcycle Crash

Motorcycles are often destroyed or heavily damaged in collisions. Victims have the right to pursue compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.

Repairing or Replacing the Motorcycle

A successful personal injury claim may include damages for the repair or replacement of the motorcycle itself. This allows the injured rider to recover the financial value of the property lost in the crash.

Compensation for Damaged Gear and Personal Items

Helmets, protective clothing, and personal belongings are often damaged in motorcycle crashes. Compensation for these losses ensures victims are reimbursed for the value of these essential items.

Wrongful Death Compensation After a Spokane Motorcycle Crash

When a motorcycle accident leads to the loss of a loved one, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. This type of compensation provides financial relief and acknowledges the emotional devastation caused by the crash.

Funeral and Burial Costs

Wrongful death claims often include damages for funeral and burial expenses. These costs can create additional financial hardship for families already struggling with loss.

Loss of Financial Support From a Loved One

If the deceased was a primary earner, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for the loss of financial support. This ensures that families are not left without resources after a tragic accident.

Loss of Companionship and Emotional Support

Courts award compensation for this loss of companionship to address the emotional toll that families suffer when a loved one dies too soon. Courts recognize that these losses are profound and deserving of compensation.

Ways a Spokane Motorcycle Crash Attorney Can Help

After a serious motorcycle accident, many victims are unsure of what steps to take or how to protect their rights. The legal process can be overwhelming, and insurance companies often work quickly to minimize payouts. Hiring a Spokane motorcycle crash attorney ensures that you have a strong advocate guiding you through every stage of your claim. From gathering evidence to negotiating settlements, an experienced lawyer provides essential support that can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Investigating the Cause of Your Motorcycle Accident

A thorough investigation is the foundation of any motorcycle accident claim. Attorneys know how to collect, preserve, and present evidence in a way that strengthens your position and highlights the other driver’s negligence.

Gathering Critical Evidence From the Crash Scene

Lawyers often secure accident scene photos, vehicle damage records, and roadway measurements to build a complete picture of what happened. This evidence is key to proving fault and countering any claims made by the opposing party.

Interviewing Witnesses to Strengthen the Claim

Witnesses often provide details that are not captured in police reports. A Spokane motorcycle crash attorney will locate and interview these individuals to create a clearer account of how the accident occurred. These testimonies often become pivotal during settlement talks or trial.

Reviewing Police and Medical Reports

Police documentation and medical records serve as powerful tools in a motorcycle crash claim. Attorneys review these reports carefully to identify inconsistencies, highlight injuries, and establish a direct link between the accident and the harm suffered.

Handling Communications With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often aim to reduce or deny claims quickly. Without proper representation, victims may feel pressured into accepting settlements that do not cover their full losses.

Protecting Clients From Low Settlement Offers

Attorneys understand the tactics insurers use to minimize payouts. A Spokane motorcycle crash lawyer can push back against unfair settlement offers and fight for compensation that truly reflects the damages sustained.

Negotiating With Insurance Adjusters

Adjusters frequently attempt to downplay injuries or dispute liability. Lawyers step in to handle these conversations directly, ensuring that victims do not say anything that could weaken their claim.

Filing Timely Insurance Paperwork

Missed deadlines or incomplete paperwork can delay or jeopardize a case. Attorneys make sure all required documents are submitted properly and on time, preventing unnecessary setbacks.

Representing Clients in Spokane Courtrooms

While many motorcycle accident cases are resolved through settlement, some proceed to trial. Having a lawyer who is prepared to argue the case in court gives victims a strong advantage.

Preparing a Case for Trial in Spokane

Preparation for trial involves gathering evidence, developing legal arguments, and anticipating the strategies of the opposing party. A Spokane motorcycle crash attorney handles these tasks with precision, ensuring the case is ready for presentation before a judge or jury.

Questioning Witnesses During Trial

Cross examination of witnesses is a critical part of trial advocacy. Lawyers use questioning to expose inconsistencies, highlight weaknesses in the opposition’s story, and reinforce their client’s position.

Presenting Evidence Clearly and Persuasively

Attorneys understand how to present evidence in a way that juries can easily understand. Whether it involves accident reconstruction, medical records, or expert testimony, a well prepared lawyer knows how to deliver this information effectively.

Providing Guidance Throughout the Legal Process

Beyond legal strategy, attorneys also provide much needed guidance to clients during stressful times. A motorcycle crash can turn life upside down, and having an attorney available to answer questions and provide reassurance makes a meaningful difference.

Explaining Each Step in the Case

From the initial consultation to settlement or trial, lawyers explain what to expect at each stage. This helps clients feel prepared and reduces the uncertainty of navigating the legal system.

Advising on Settlement Versus Trial Options

Not every case should go to trial, but not every settlement offer is fair. Attorneys help clients weigh the benefits of each option, ensuring that decisions are made with a full understanding of the risks and rewards.

Offering Compassionate Support for Injured Victims

Beyond legal knowledge, a Spokane motorcycle crash attorney provides compassion and empathy. Victims know they have someone on their side who is committed to fighting for their recovery and wellbeing.

Contact a Spokane Motorcycle Crash Lawyer Today

Recovering from a motorcycle accident in Spokane is never easy. Victims often face painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and a sudden loss of income that can overwhelm even the most prepared families. The legal process can feel confusing, especially when insurance companies work quickly to protect themselves. Having an experienced Spokane motorcycle crash attorney on your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you have an advocate fighting for the compensation you need.

At Bernard Law, our motorcycle accident lawyers know the unique challenges riders face after a crash. We investigate thoroughly, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and fight aggressively in court when necessary. Our goal is to give you the time and space to focus on healing while we take on the burden of your claim. With proven experience and a commitment to protecting injured riders, we work to secure the financial recovery you deserve.

If you have been injured in a Spokane motorcycle crash, call (206) 984-8719 today to schedule a free consultation. You can also reach out online to learn how our legal team can help you move forward after a serious accident.