The actions you take immediately after a motorcycle accident significantly impact your health and legal claim. Critical steps in the moments, hours, and days following a crash can make the difference between full compensation and inadequate recovery.

At the Accident Scene

Check for injuries to yourself and others. Don't move if you suspect spinal injury. Call 911 for medical emergencies.

Move to safety if possible and if movement won't worsen injuries. Get out of traffic to prevent secondary accidents.

Call police even for seemingly minor accidents. An official report documents the incident and may assign fault.

Exchange information with other involved parties - names, contact information, insurance details, driver's license numbers, and license plates.

Documenting the Scene

Photograph everything - vehicle positions, damage to all vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and debris.

Photograph your injuries as they appear at the scene. Visible injuries documented immediately support your claim.

Get witness contact information. Independent witnesses can provide crucial testimony about how the accident occurred.

Note environmental conditions - weather, lighting, road surface, any hazards that may have contributed to the crash.

Interacting with Others at the Scene

Don't admit fault or apologize for the accident. Even saying "I'm sorry" can be used against you later.

Don't discuss injuries extensively. Adrenaline masks pain, and injuries may be worse than they seem. Statements like "I'm fine" can undermine claims.

Cooperate with police but stick to facts. Don't speculate about what happened or accept blame.

Seeking Medical Attention

Get medical evaluation immediately - at the scene by paramedics, at the ER, or at urgent care. Some injuries don't show symptoms right away.

Describe all symptoms to medical providers. Don't minimize pain or discomfort. Complete records support your claim.

Follow all treatment recommendations. Skipping appointments or ignoring medical advice undermines injury claims.

Keep all medical records and receipts. Documentation of treatment and expenses is essential for your claim.

Reporting the Accident

Notify your insurance company promptly. Most policies require timely accident reporting. Failure to report can jeopardize coverage.

File required reports with your state DMV if required. Some states mandate reporting accidents above certain damage thresholds.

Don't give recorded statements to the other driver's insurance without legal advice. Adjusters use statements to minimize claims.

Preserving Evidence

Keep damaged gear - helmet, jacket, gloves. This equipment shows crash severity and may reveal defects.

Don't repair your motorcycle before documenting damage thoroughly. Take photos from all angles showing all damage.

Preserve all documents - accident reports, medical records, bills, correspondence with insurers.

In the Days Following

Continue medical treatment as recommended. Follow-up appointments and therapy are essential for recovery and your claim.

Keep a daily journal documenting symptoms, pain levels, limitations, and how injuries affect your life.

Document lost work time. Get statements from employers about missed days and lost income.

Avoid social media posts about the accident or your activities. Insurance companies monitor social media for evidence contradicting injury claims.

Consulting an Attorney

Consult a motorcycle accident attorney before accepting any settlement offers or giving recorded statements.

Most attorneys offer free consultations. Early legal advice helps you avoid mistakes that undermine claims.

Attorneys can preserve evidence that might otherwise disappear - surveillance footage, witness statements, vehicle data.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Delaying medical treatment - gaps between the accident and treatment raise questions about injury causation.

Accepting quick settlements - early offers rarely reflect full damages, especially before you understand injury extent.

Posting on social media - photos of activities, check-ins, and statements can contradict injury claims.

Giving recorded statements without legal advice - adjusters are trained to get statements that minimize claims.

Protecting Your Claim Long-Term

Be consistent in describing your accident and injuries. Inconsistent statements raise credibility concerns.

Follow all medical advice. Non-compliance suggests injuries aren't serious or you're not mitigating damages.

Stay patient. Don't settle until you understand the full extent of your injuries and their long-term effects.