Motorcycle Crash Protection and Legal Advice: Essential Steps Before and After a Crash

by | Oct 17, 2024 | The Biker's Blog | 1 comment

Split image showing 'Before' and 'After' a motorcycle crash. The 'Before' side features a helmet on a desk next to a legal document, while the 'After' side shows a damaged motorcycle on the street with police and emergency responders in the background. The Biker Lawyers logo is at the bottom.

How to Protect Yourselves Before & After a Crash

When it comes to riding, motorcycle crash protection and legal advice aren’t just things to consider after an accident—they’re critical before you even hit the road. Let’s take a look at some common questions we get from clients about why preparation is key, both on and off the road.

A close-up of an insurance policy form with a pen resting on it, along with a pair of glasses. The form includes sections for personal information.

Protecting yourself and family goes beyond wearing the right gear. It starts with making sure you have enough of the right insurance coverage.

Does It Matter How Much Insurance I Have on My Motorcycle?

You bet it does. When you’re riding a motorcycle, the most important person to insure is YOU. 

The sad truth? Many negligent drivers out there either don’t have enough insurance, or worse, have none at all. That means if you get hit, the driver responsible might not be able to cover the damages they caused.

Infographic illustrating the dangers of uninsured motorists. A man holds a paper that says

This is where uninsured (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage becomes your safety net. This coverage ensures that you’re protected, no matter what happens with the other driver’s insurance. In my years as a motorcycle injury lawyer, I’ve seen too many cases where bikers faced the reality that the at-fault driver’s insurance wasn’t enough to even scratch the surface of their losses.

How much UM/UIM insurance should you have? 

At least $250,000. It may sound like a lot, but trust me, it’s the minimum any biker should carry to safeguard themselves and their family.

If you think that’s overkill, let me tell you, I’ve never had a client come to me after a crash wishing they had less coverage.

Infographic illustrating how much insurance coverage is recommended by The Biker Lawyers

Above is how much insurance we recommend motorcyclists have to make sure they have the coverage they’ll need.

Take a minute to review your policy—are you truly covered? If you’re not sure, it’s time to fix that.

What to Do if You’re in a Crash (Or Witness One)

Let’s face it, crashes happen. And when they do, chaos usually follows. Here’s 7 steps to help you take control, protect yourself, or help a fellow rider:
  1. Secure the Scene but Don’t Move Anything. Whether you’re the one involved or just a witness, resist the urge to move bikes or cars. The scene tells the story, and moving anything can erase critical evidence. That said, if you’re able, do your best to help redirect traffic until help arrives.
  2. Call 9-1-1. Make sure help is on the way and that you can get a police report started.
  3. Get Witness Info. This might sound like common sense, but you’d be shocked how often key witnesses disappear because nobody asked for their contact info. Don’t let crucial evidence walk away.
  4. Take Plenty of Photos. Snap pictures from every angle. It doesn’t matter if it’s the bike, the road, or the other vehicle—photos lock the evidence in time. If things do get moved around later, you’ll still have a record of how everything originally looked.
  5. Call The Biker Lawyers. Even if you feel fine, talking to a motorcycle injury lawyer ensures that your rights are protected from the start. A free consultation could mean the difference between fair compensation and getting stuck with bills that aren’t your fault.
  6. Get Checked Out at the Hospital. No matter how tough you think you are, or how minor you think your injuries are, go get checked out. Injuries like internal bleeding or concussions can show up hours, even days, later.
  7. Stick to Your Treatment Plan. If your doctor says you need follow-up appointments, don’t skip them. Insurance companies love to say, “Well, if you didn’t follow the doctor’s orders, how bad could it really be?” That’s not a question you ever want to have to answer.
We know it’s a lot to remember, especially in the midst of all the chaos of a crash. If you remember nothing else, remember this:

An infographic listing steps to take after a motorcycle crash. The steps include securing the scene, calling 9-1-1, gathering witness information, taking photos, getting medical attention, and contacting The Biker Lawyers. The infographic is designed for quick reference and features bold text with accompanying icons for each step.

Why You Need a Lawyer After a Crash

Think you don’t need a lawyer because it was “just a minor crash?” I’ve got news for you: Insurance companies are experts at minimizing payouts. 

Their goal? To settle for as little as possible, leaving you high and dry while lining their pockets. 

My goal? To make sure that doesn’t happen.

As a fellow rider, I’ve been there, and I know the feeling of vulnerability that comes after a crash – especially if you’re injured. That’s why I fight tooth and nail to ensure my clients are protected. Don’t take my word for it. Ask my clients, they’ll tell you.

Here’s the kicker: You shouldn’t even think about settling your case until you’re absolutely sure your injuries are fully treated or at the very least, have a treatment plan that you are 100% committed to.

Don’t try to “tough it out” and avoid the doctor. Skipping care not only slows your recovery, but it gives insurance companies ammo to say you weren’t really hurt.

An experienced motorcycle injury lawyer (like me) will fight the insurance companies to make sure you get every penny you’re owed. 

And don’t worry, if you’re in Iowa or Minnesota, you’re in good hands—we live this stuff.

The Power of Preparation: Before and After a Crash

A distressed young man sits on the street, holding his chest, next to his crashed motorcycle. An older biker wearing a helmet supports him, while other vehicles and a stop sign are visible in the background.

I always tell riders: Preparation is key, both on and off the road.  Before a crash, it’s all about the right gear, the right coverage, and the right mindset.  But after a crash? It’s all about evidence, medical care, and smart legal advice. Don’t leave your future to chance. Whether it’s adjusting your insurance today or knowing what steps to take after a crash, it’s all part of the same goal: protecting you and your ride.

Get Your Free Consultation

Three bikers from The Biker Lawyers stand proudly beside their motorcycles, wearing riding vests. The group smiles confidently, representing their bond with the biker community.

At The Biker Lawyers, we know the road, and we know the law. We’ve stood shoulder-to-shoulder with bikers just like you, doing our very best to ensure they get fair treatment and maximum compensation after a crash. Don’t wait until it’s too late—call us today for your free consultation and let’s make sure you’re protected before and after a crash.

Injured? Ride with us.

REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION HERE
Image of the Founder of The Biker Lawyers, Pete Leehey

About the Author: Pete Leehey

Pete Leehey isn’t just a personal injury lawyer—he’s a biker through and through. For over 40 years, Pete has dedicated his career to helping fellow motorcyclists and motorists who’ve been injured in crashes. As a rider himself, Pete knows firsthand the challenges and risks bikers face on the road, giving him a unique perspective on both the legal and personal impacts of serious collisions.

Recognized for his legal expertise and integrity, Pete holds the prestigious AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest honor for legal ability and ethics. He’s also been named one of Iowa’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the American Trial Lawyers Association, a testament to his skill and dedication in the courtroom.

Active in the biker community, Pete is a proud member of ABATE (District 5 in Iowa and Flatlanders in Minnesota) and has served as the District 5 Coordinator for Iowa.

You can often find him presenting “Share the Road” seminars or advocating for bikers’ rights as legal counsel for the Iowa and Minnesota Confederations of Motorcycle Clubs. Licensed to practice in Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, Pete combines his passion for riding with his mission to protect and serve the biker community.


1 Comment

  1. HealXO
    HealXO on November 9, 2024 at 12:19 am

    Your blog is a constant source of inspiration for me. Your passion for your subject matter shines through in every post, and it’s clear that you genuinely care about making a positive impact on your readers.