Motorcycle accidents
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents often involve serious injuries and unfair bias from insurers. Here's what to do right after one happens.
Get medical attention first
Motorcycle crashes frequently cause more serious injuries than car accidents, even at lower speeds. Get checked out even if you feel okay.
Document the scene thoroughly
Photograph the bike, your gear, the road surface, and any hazards. Motorcycle cases often hinge on details a car accident wouldn't need — road debris, lane position, and weather.
Be ready for bias
Insurers sometimes unfairly assume riders were speeding or weaving. Strong documentation and witness statements help counter that assumption.
Don't downplay your injuries
Avoid giving a recorded statement to an insurer before speaking with an attorney — casual language can be used against you later.
Frequently asked
Does wearing a helmet affect my claim?
Helmet laws vary by state and can factor into a case, but not wearing one doesn't automatically bar a claim. An attorney can explain how it applies where you live.
Are motorcycle settlements typically different from car accident settlements?
Because injuries tend to be more severe, motorcycle claims can involve higher medical costs and lost wages, which affects overall value.
General legal information for educational purposes only — not legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created. Laws vary by state and change over time; confirm details with a licensed attorney in your state.