Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you ride a motorcycle, you already know how vulnerable you are on the road. But here’s the harsh truth—even if you're the one injured, people often assume you're at fault. Insurance adjusters, police reports, and even witnesses can be influenced by unfair stereotypes about bikers being reckless. So when it’s time to make a motorcycle accident claim, you’re not just dealing with injuries—you’re also battling bias.

That’s why it’s so important to understand your rights, avoid common mistakes, and make sure you’re positioned for the motorcycle accident compensation you deserve. Wondering where to start? Let’s break it down.

Understanding Motorcycle Accident Claims

The first and most important step is to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask pain, and many riders think they’re okay after a crash, only to feel the effects days later. After seeing a doctor, make sure to keep records of all treatments, prescriptions, and diagnoses—this will directly support your claim when it’s time to file. Keep in mind that delaying treatment is one of the most common mistakes to avoid for motorcycle accident claims—you don’t want to give insurance companies an excuse to reduce or deny your payout.

The next step is to document everything like a detective. Think you’ll remember the details a few weeks from now? Probably not. Take photos at the scene: your bike, other vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and most importantly, your injuries. Don’t forget to obtain names and contact information from any witnesses, and always request a copy of the police report.

The more documentation you have, the stronger your motorcycle accident claim will be—especially when battling assumptions about fault. An experienced attorney can take that evidence and build a compelling case on your behalf, whether it's negotiating with the insurance company or presenting your story in court. They can also pull traffic camera footage and challenge inaccurate police reports that may paint an unfair picture of what happened.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accident

You might assume your insurance company is on your side. But when it comes to motorcycle accident compensation, their priority is saving money—not helping you. So, don’t give a recorded statement without legal guidance, and be cautious with what you say, even off the record. Know your policy and whether it includes uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. And remember—insurance adjusters are trained to settle quickly. Don’t accept the first offer just to move on.

t’s important to know what you can be compensated for. Your motorcycle accident claim should account for past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress. If you’re not sure what your case is worth, that’s a sign to speak to a qualified personal injury attorney who handles compensation for motorcycle accidents regularly.

And lastly, be aware of the clock. In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. That might seem like plenty of time, but evidence disappears, memories fade, and delay can hurt your case. It’s essential to consult with a legal professional who understands motorcycle bias. If your case heads toward a motorcycle injury lawsuit, you’ll want someone in your corner who knows how to fight for riders. A seasoned attorney can push back against unfair assumptions and negotiate for the full amount you’re owed.

Need a Personal Injury Lawyer in North Hollywood or Glendale?

Filing a motorcycle accident claim isn't just about submitting paperwork—it's about making sure your side of the story is heard in a system that doesn't always favor riders. Personal injury laws can be complex, and mistakes are easy to make, but with the right support and information, you can protect your rights and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to.

As an established personal injury law firm in North Hollywood, Yepremyan Law has been representing clients in Southern California since 1998. With 24/7 support, we offer free consultations where you can receive the proper legal advice you need for your case.

Whether you need to speak with one of our motorcycle accident attorneys in North Hollywood or wish to connect with our dedicated Glendale personal injury lawyer, we’re just a phone call away.

*No Legal Advice Intended. This website includes general information about legal issues and developments in the law. These materials have been prepared for general informational purposes only and are not intended to be legal advice. Please consult an attorney for legal advice pertaining to any particular legal matter. Use of and access to this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader, user, or browser and Yepremyan Law Firm and any of its attorneys, employees, or associates.