After a motorcycle accident, prioritize safety and call 911. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Document the scene with photos, exchange information with others involved, and gather witness statements. Notify your insurance company and contact a motorcycle accident lawyer to protect your rights. Speak with an attorney today for a free consultation.
The moments after a motorcycle crash are chaotic. You may be in pain, confused, and unsure what to do next. Whether you’re in Long Beach, Los Angeles, or anywhere in California, knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can protect your health, your rights, and your financial future.
At The Beliz Law Firm, we’ve helped injured riders recover compensation after serious crashes for over a decade. We understand that every second counts after an accident, and the steps you take immediately can make all the difference in your recovery and legal claim.
Taking Action After a Motorcycle Accident: Protect Your Rights and Recovery
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, knowing what steps to take is crucial for your well-being and future. Our compassionate team of personal injury lawyers is here to guide you through the aftermath, helping you navigate the complex road to recovery while safeguarding your legal rights.
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What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Get to Safety and Call 911
Your first priority is to get yourself and your motorcycle out of harm’s way. Move to a safe location off the road if possible, and call 911 immediately.
Even if your injuries seem minor, request an ambulance. Motorcycle crashes often cause hidden internal injuries that worsen over time.
Pro Tip: Never leave the scene of the accident until police arrive, even if the crash seems small.
2. Check for Injuries and Accept Medical Care
Motorcyclists are vulnerable to severe injuries like fractures, head trauma, or road rash. Allow paramedics to evaluate you on the scene and follow up with a doctor as soon as possible.
Medical documentation is one of the most important pieces of evidence in a personal injury claim. It shows the direct link between the crash and your injuries.
3. Call Law Enforcement and File a Report
California law requires that accidents involving injuries, death, or major property damage be reported to the police.
Ask the responding officer for a report number and badge ID. This will help your attorney request a copy later.
If possible, make sure the officer includes your side of the story in the report.
4. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re able, collect the following before leaving the scene:
- Photos of your motorcycle, the other vehicle, and the surrounding area
- The other driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle details
- Witness names and contact information
- The weather, lighting, and road conditions
If you’re too injured to collect evidence, ask a friend or bystander to help.
5. Avoid Admitting Fault
Never apologize or make statements like “I didn’t see you.” Even if you believe you might be partially to blame, fault can only be determined after an investigation.
Stick to the facts when speaking with the police, the other driver, or insurance companies.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurer as soon as possible to report the accident.
Provide only basic information, such as where and when it happened, but avoid giving a recorded statement or accepting a settlement before speaking with a lawyer. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, especially in motorcycle cases.
7. Keep Detailed Records
Maintain all documents related to the crash, including:
- Medical bills and doctor’s notes
- Repair estimates or photos of your motorcycle
- Time missed from work and wage loss documentation
- Correspondence with insurance companies
Having organized records helps your attorney build a stronger claim.
8. Contact a California Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
After a crash, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by medical appointments, insurance paperwork, and financial pressure. A lawyer can handle all of that for you.
The experienced attorneys at The Beliz Law Firm will:
- File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary to recover maximum compensation
- Investigate the accident and determine fault
- Gather medical and expert evidence to support your case
- Negotiate with insurance adjusters on your behalf
What NOT to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Avoiding common mistakes can protect your claim:
- ❌ Don’t admit fault or speculate about what happened.
- ❌ Don’t leave the scene without calling police.
- ❌ Don’t post photos or comments about the accident on social media.
- ❌ Don’t accept a quick settlement without legal advice.
Even a single misstep can hurt your ability to recover the full amount you’re entitled to.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Knowing the steps to take after a motorcycle accident can make the difference between a denied claim and a full recovery. You don’t have to handle the aftermath alone.
At The Beliz Law Firm, our California motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to protecting injured riders and their families. We’ll help you navigate insurance claims, deal with medical bills, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation to learn your legal options after a motorcycle crash anywhere in California.
FAQs
Q: What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?
Call 911, move to a safe location, and seek medical care. Then gather driver and witness information, take photos, and contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.
Q: Should I report the accident to the police?
Yes. In California, any crash involving injury, death, or significant damage must be reported. A police report helps establish fault and supports your insurance claim.
Q: How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in California?
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If a government vehicle was involved, you may have only six months to file a claim.
Q: Can I still recover damages if I was partly at fault?
Yes. California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault — but you can still recover damages.
Q: Why should I hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
A lawyer ensures that you’re not taken advantage of by insurance companies. They handle communication, gather evidence, calculate damages, and fight for the compensation you’re owed.