What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash?

Motorcycle crashes can be especially devastating. Riders are far more exposed than drivers in a car, which often results in severe injuries, costly medical bills, and long recovery times. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Washington State, knowing what steps to take immediately after the crash can make a meaningful difference in your physical recovery, financial stability, and legal rights.

This guide outlines the most important actions to take after a motorcycle accident and explains why working with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help protect your future. 

 

1. Prioritize Safety and Call for Help

The first priority after a motorcycle crash is safety. 

• Move yourself and your motorcycle out of the roadway, if possible, to prevent additional collisions. 
• Call 911 immediately to request both police and medical assistance, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not present obvious systems right away. 

Getting medical attention and having an official accident report lays the foundation for both your recovery and your legal claim. 

 

2. Document the Accident Scene 

Evidence gathered at the crash site can become critical in establishing liability later. 

• Take photos and videos of your motorcycle, the other vehicles involved, roadway conditions, and any visible injuries. 
• Obtain contact and insurance information from all drivers. 
• Collect names and phone numbers of witnesses who saw the crash occur. 

Strong documentation strengthens your case and can help prevent insurance companies from disputing fault. 

 

3. File a Police Report

Washington law requires reporting collisions involving injury, death, or property damage of $1,000 or more [WA Department of Licensing]. The responding officer’s report will typically include statements, diagrams, and the officer’s initial findings. This document can be essential evidence in pursuing compensation

 

4. See Medical Care

Even if you were evaluated at the scene, follow up with a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

• Motorcycle crashes frequently result in orthopedic injuries, spinal cord damage, and head trauma.

• Delayed treatment can worsen injuries and give insurers an excuse to argue your condition was unrelated to the crash.

Consistent medical care not only protects your health but also establishes a clear record linking your injuries to the

 

5. Notify Your Insurance Company (But Be Careful!)

You are required to report accidents to your insurer, but proceed cautiously.

• Provide only the basic facts of the collision. 

• Do not speculate about fault or minimize your injuries. 

• Never agree to a recorded statement with the other driver’s insurer without legal guidance.

Insurance adjusters are trained to reduce payouts. Protect yourself by consulting an attorney before providing them information. 

 

6. Preserve All Records

Keep copies of every document related to your crash, including: 

• Medical bills and treatment plans
• Repair estimates for your motorcycle
• Time sheets showing missed work and lost wages
• Correspondence with insurance companies

 

7. Consult a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 

Motorcycle crashes often result in high-value claims due to the severity of injuries. Insurance companies know that, so they may try to unfairly blame the rider, downplay damages or offer a quick settlement before you even finish treatment. Without legal representation, you risk settling for far less than what your injuries, lost wages, and future medical needs are truly worth. 

 

Washington Law Center Can Help

Knowing what to do after a motorcycle crash empowers you to protect both your health and your legal rights. Prioritize safety, seek medical care, document everything, and contact an attorney as soon as possible. The steps you take immediately after a crash can directly impact the outcome of your recovery and your case. 

At Washington Law Center, we fight for injured riders across the state. Our attorneys have extensive experience holding negligent drivers and insurance companies accountable. If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone.

Call Washington Law Center today for a free case review. We are ready to stand with you, protect your rights, and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.