What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in California
The minutes after a crash are chaotic, and for a rider the stakes are high. Here is a clear, practical order of operations for a California motorcycle accident — from the road, to the doctor, to the insurance call.
First, get safe and check for injuries
If you can, get out of the roadway and turn on hazard lights or set out a warning. Do not rush to pull off a helmet or gear until you have been checked — movement can worsen a spine or neck injury. Call 911 for any injury, and let responders evaluate you even if you feel able to stand.
Get an official report
Call the police so there is an official crash report. For a rider, an independent record of what happened is especially valuable, because insurers often start from the assumption that the motorcyclist was at fault. Get the report or incident number before you leave.
Document the scene and your gear
Photograph the vehicles, your motorcycle, the road, any hazard like gravel or a pothole, and your injuries. Get the other driver's information and any witnesses' names and numbers. Note the date, time, weather, and lighting while it is fresh.
See a doctor — even if you feel okay
Adrenaline and protective gear can mask serious injuries, and some — concussions, internal and soft-tissue injuries — show up hours or days later. Prompt care protects your health and ties your injuries to the crash. Gaps in treatment are the most common reason insurers give for paying less.
Preserve your motorcycle, helmet, and gear
Do not repair or throw them out yet. A damaged helmet, worn gear, and the bike itself are evidence of the forces involved and can matter if a defective part or road hazard is involved. Store them safely until you have advice.
Be careful with the insurance companies
Report the crash to your own insurer, but be measured. You are generally not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer, and it is usually wise not to before you understand your injuries — an early statement can feed the 'reckless rider' narrative or minimize your claim.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to call the police after a motorcycle crash?
Reporting is strongly advisable, and California requires it in certain situations. Beyond any requirement, an official report is valuable evidence for a rider, since it independently records what happened.
Should I keep my damaged helmet?
Yes. Do not throw out a damaged helmet or gear — they can be evidence of the crash forces and your injuries, and may matter if a defective part is involved.
Keep reading
This article is general information about California injury law, not legal advice. Every case is different — talk to a lawyer about your situation.
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