As a motorcycle rider, although scary, do you ever wonder what to do after a Motorcycle Accident? Getting into a motorcycle crash is a traumatic experience—physically, emotionally, and legally. Unlike fender-benders involving cars, motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, totaled bikes, and complex legal battles.
Whether you were hit by a distracted driver, sideswiped in traffic, or injured in a road hazard incident, knowing what to do next can protect your health and your rights.
At Injured Biker Law, we’ve spent more than 50 years fighting for injured riders across Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Our team isn’t just made up of attorneys—we’re riders, too. We know the risks bikers face every day, and we’ve built our careers on making sure motorcycle crash victims get the justice they deserve.
Here’s your step-by-step legal and practical checklist for what to do after a motorcycle accident in Massachusetts.
1. Get to Safety and Call 911 Immediately
Your first priority is safety. If you’re able to move, get out of the flow of traffic to avoid further injury. Call 911 immediately and request both emergency medical personnel and police officers.
Massachusetts law requires a police report for crashes involving injury, death, or property damage over $1,000. This report will become a vital piece of evidence in your case.
2. Get Medical Attention—Even if You Feel “Fine”
Many motorcycle injuries, like concussions, internal bleeding, or spinal damage, may not show symptoms right away. Adrenaline can mask pain in the moment, but hidden injuries can become serious if untreated.
Go to the ER or urgent care as soon as possible. Save all medical bills, doctor’s notes, imaging results, and prescriptions. These documents help prove the extent of your injuries and support your claim.
At Injured Biker Law, we’ve seen clients develop serious complications days or even weeks after an accident. Never assume you’re “okay” until a doctor confirms it.
3. Gather Evidence and Document the Scene
If possible, collect the following while still at the accident site:
Use your phone to take clear photos and videos of:
Every detail counts. Your future claim may rely on this evidence to prove negligence.
4. Don’t Admit Fault—Even If You Feel Partially Responsible
Massachusetts uses a modified comparative negligence system. That means if you’re found more than 50% at fault, you won’t be eligible for any compensation.
Even a well-meaning apology could be twisted into an admission of guilt by insurance companies or defense lawyers. Be respectful and cooperative, but stick to the facts and avoid discussing fault at the scene.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Massachusetts requires that all drivers—including motorcyclists—report accidents to their insurer promptly. You’ll also need to file a Motor Vehicle Crash Operator Report with the RMV within 5 days of the accident if:
Download the required crash report here (PDF):
https://www.mass.gov/files/documents/2017/09/28/motor-vehicle-crash-operator-report.pdf
While you must notify your insurance, be careful about giving recorded statements or accepting early settlement offers. Once you settle, you typically waive your right to seek more compensation later, even if your injuries worsen.
6. Understand How PIP Insurance Works in MA
Massachusetts is a “no-fault” state. That means your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance will cover the first $8,000 of medical bills, regardless of who was at fault.
However, PIP coverage doesn’t always apply to motorcycle riders the same way it does for car drivers. You may have waived PIP on your motorcycle policy, and even if you didn’t, coverage limits are often lower. This is one of many reasons why consulting with a motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial.
7. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Who Rides
You deserve representation from someone who understands what it’s like to ride—and crash. At Injured Biker Law, our attorneys bring more than five decades of combined legal experience, and we ride ourselves. We know what it’s like to split lanes, lean into a curve, and share the road with inattentive drivers.
Our legal team will:
We don’t just settle for lowball offers—we fight to maximize your recovery for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.
8. Don’t Wait—Time Limits Apply
In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident. However, waiting too long to act can hurt your case. Evidence fades, witnesses move, and insurance companies will use delays against you.
The sooner you speak to an experienced motorcycle injury attorney, the better your chances of building a strong claim.
You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident is overwhelming. Between managing your recovery, handling repairs, and dealing with insurance adjusters, it’s easy to feel lost. But you don’t have to do it alone.
The team at Injured Biker Law is here to guide you through every step. We’ve helped thousands of riders across Massachusetts and New Hampshire recover compensation and rebuild their lives—and we’re ready to help you.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Let a law firm that rides fight for your rights. Contact Injured Biker Law now for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next step toward justice.
Call InjuredBikerLaw or contact us here to get started.