Every motorcycle accident is a traumatic experience, especially on Long Island’s fast-paced and congested roads. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or enjoy weekend trips, understanding what to do after a motorcycle accident is essential. It protects your physical well-being and ensures your legal and financial rights are preserved in the aftermath. The steps you take in those critical moments can determine how successful your recovery and claims process will be. At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, we’ve stood beside countless injured riders and their families, offering guidance and aggressive advocacy when needed. Let us be your trusted partner during this challenging time.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident: 6 Crucial Steps for Long Island Riders
Getting into a motorcycle accident can throw your whole world into chaos. You’re shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. Sound familiar? That’s completely normal. But what happens in the next few minutes—and days—can shape your recovery and your ability to claim what you’re owed. You’ve got more control than you think. So, what should you actually do after the dust settles? Here are six key steps every Long Island rider should keep in their back pocket:
Step 1: Get to Safety and Call Emergency Services Immediately
The first priority after a motorcycle crash is safety. If you’re able to move, get out of harm’s way. Stay visible but avoid putting yourself in additional danger from passing vehicles.
Call 911 as soon as possible to report the accident. Emergency medical responders will evaluate injuries, and law enforcement will secure the scene. This official report becomes an essential piece of evidence later.
Step 2: Document the Scene and Gather Evidence If You Can
If you’re not seriously injured and it’s safe to do so, begin collecting evidence. This can significantly support your insurance claim and any potential legal case.
Gather the following, if possible:
- Photos of vehicle positions, damages, skid marks, road signs, and lighting conditions
- Contact details of the other driver and any eyewitnesses
- Insurance and license information
These details will be crucial later. New Jersey’s crash investigation reports, for instance, are retained for six years and can be accessed at NJ Portal Crash Reports.
Step 3: Seek Immediate Medical Attention, Even If You Feel Fine
Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, don’t always show up right away after a crash. When adrenaline kicks in, you might feel fine even if something serious is going on under the surface. Getting checked out by a medical professional right away isn’t just smart—it could make a huge difference in how quickly you recover.
Seeing a doctor doesn’t just help your health. It gives you a clear, time-stamped medical record that backs you up if you decide to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action down the line.
Step 4: File a Police Report and Notify Your Insurance Company
In New York, you’re legally obligated to report an accident if there is over $1,000 in property damage. This must be done within 10 days of the incident.
You can access crash reports and filing instructions through the New York DMV’s crash report portal. Keep in mind that these reports are stored for up to four years and may take 14 to 60 days to process, depending on where the crash occurred and who filed it.
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault. Let your attorney handle further communication if the situation escalates.
Step 5: Contact a Long Island Motorcycle Accident Lawyer to Protect Your Rights
Motorcycle accident claims can be legally complex and emotionally draining. Working with a seasoned Long Island motorcycle accident lawyer helps ensure your rights are protected from the beginning.
Here’s why legal guidance is critical:
- Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts
- Evidence needs to be preserved and analyzed quickly
- There are strict filing deadlines for personal injury claims in New York
An experienced attorney can provide free consultations and aggressive representation to motorcycle crash victims. We understand the challenges you’re facing and know how to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Speak to a Long Island Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to take action. The earlier we get involved, the more effectively we can protect your claim. Our team at the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe is ready to help you understand your rights and fight for the full recovery you deserve. Contact us now to schedule your free consultation.
Call a motorcycle accident lawyer near you in NY: