What Not To Do After A Motorcycle Accident?

A motorcycle accident can leave you shocked, disoriented, and unsure of what to do next. In those chaotic moments, even well-intentioned actions can unintentionally harm your health or weaken your legal claim. Knowing what not to do after a motorcycle accident is just as important as knowing what steps to take.

This page explains the most common mistakes riders make after a crash, how those errors can affect compensation, and why working with an experienced Florida motorcycle accident lawyer can protect your rights from the start.

Avoid Leaving the Scene of the Accident

Under Florida Statute §316.061, leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage or injury, known as a “hit and run”, is a criminal offense. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, always remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives.

Staying on site allows you to:

• Exchange information with other drivers.
  
• Document the scene for insurance and legal purposes.
  
• Ensure emergency medical personnel can evaluate your condition.

Leaving prematurely can not only harm your case but may also expose you to legal penalties.

Don’t Admit Fault or Apologize

In the confusion following an accident, many riders instinctively say things like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see them.” These statements, even if meant politely, can be used later to argue that you admitted fault.

Instead, stick to the facts when speaking to law enforcement: describe what happened without guessing or accepting blame. Let your motorcycle accident attorney handle communications with insurance companies and other parties once the investigation begins.

Never Skip Medical Treatment

Motorcyclists often underestimate their injuries because adrenaline can mask pain. However, conditions such as internal bleeding, concussions, or spinal injuries may not appear immediately.

If you delay or refuse medical treatment:

• Insurers may argue that your injuries weren’t serious.
  
• Gaps in medical documentation weaken your personal injury claim.
  
• Untreated injuries could worsen and create lasting health problems.

A prompt medical evaluation ensures both your safety and the strength of your case.

Don’t Give Recorded Statements to Insurance Adjusters

Soon after the crash, an insurance representative, sometimes even the at-fault driver’s insurer, may contact you for a “quick statement.” They’ll sound friendly, but their goal is to gather information that limits your claim.

Never provide a recorded or written statement without first consulting a Florida motorcycle accident lawyer. Attorneys understand how insurers frame questions to elicit damaging responses, and they can ensure your words aren’t taken out of context.

Avoid Posting About the Accident on Social Media

In today’s world, social media is second nature, but after a motorcycle crash, it can seriously undermine your claim. Insurance adjusters and defense attorneys frequently monitor online activity for posts or photos that contradict your reported injuries.

A simple picture of you walking, smiling, or attending an event could be used to argue that your pain is exaggerated. Until your case is resolved, avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or your recovery.

Don’t Repair or Sell Your Motorcycle Immediately

Your damaged motorcycle is evidence. Its condition helps experts determine the cause of the accident, the point of impact, and the force involved, all of which are crucial to proving fault and calculating damages.

Before making repairs or selling the bike, have your motorcycle accident attorneys inspect and document it thoroughly. This step ensures that valuable evidence isn’t lost.

Don’t Delay Calling a Lawyer

One of the biggest mistakes injured riders make is waiting too long to get legal help. Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury (Florida Statute §95.11) generally allows only two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

However, time-sensitive evidence, like skid marks, camera footage, and witness memories, can disappear within days. A prompt call to a Florida motorcycle accident lawyer allows your attorney to preserve critical information and begin building a strong case.

Don’t Settle Too Quickly

Insurance companies often offer quick settlements before the full extent of your injuries or long-term needs is known. Once you accept a payout, you typically waive your right to seek additional compensation, even if you later need surgery or ongoing therapy.

An experienced Florida personal injury lawyer will evaluate the full value of your claim, including future medical expenses, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering, before advising whether to accept or reject an offer.

Call Kogan & DiSalvo Personal Injury Lawyers

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Florida, don’t risk your future by making costly mistakes. The seasoned Florida motorcycle accident lawyers at Kogan & DiSalvo Personal Injury Lawyers can guide you through every step of your claim, from evidence collection to negotiation and, if necessary, trial.

Call (561) 286-8132 today for a free consultation. We proudly represent clients statewide from offices in  Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Plantation, Palm Bay, St. Petersburg, Vero Beach, North Miami Beach, Boynton Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Lakeland, Stuart, Tampa, and West Palm Beach.