What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

Being in a motorcycle accident can be traumatizing. The high speeds at which motorcycles travel, combined with the potentially catastrophic impact of motor vehicles, often result in serious injuries. Motorcycle accidents in San Francisco can be especially dangerous due to narrow roadways, bridges, frequent construction, and unkempt roads.

If you do find yourself in a motorcycle accident, follow these important steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights:

1. Take Care of Any Injuries 

First and foremost, ensure that everyone involved is safe. If you or anyone else requires medical attention, call 911 immediately. Safety is the top priority after any accident, whether it’s a motorcycle collision or another type of crash. 

2. Document the Scene

Once everyone is safe or has medical attention on the way, take photos of the accident scene. Capture as many angles as possible to document the damages to all vehicles and motorcycles involved. If you don’t have a camera, write down detailed descriptions of the damage and the positions of the vehicles. 

3. Move to Safety

After documenting the scene, move all involved parties to a safer location. For example, if the accident occurred in the middle of the highway, move to a median, shoulder, or emergency stopping lane. This helps prevent additional accidents or injuries. 

4. Contact the Police

Even if the others suggest handling the accident independently, call the police. A police report will officially document the accident and may be crucial if you choose to file a claim.

5. Exchange Information

California motorcycle law requires the exchange of rider information after a crash. Once everyone is in a safe location, exchange contact information, including names, phone numbers, and insurance details. Taking photos of insurance cards can provide proof of coverage. If there are witnesses, collect their contact information as well. 

6. Log the Accident

Record your account of the accident using a voice recorder or by writing it down on paper or your phone. Recount the incident as it occurred to you. This can help maintain clarity about the accident details as time passes and can be valuable if you need to provide a statement in court. 

Additional Tips

•  Always prioritize safety and ask all parties involved if they need medical attention
• By vigilant in the days following the accident for any worsening injuries or new symptoms. It’s common to feel fine immediately after an accident, only to experience pain or limited mobility later