Motorcycle accidents in Hartford can change a life in seconds. With little protection against larger vehicles, riders often face serious injuries and overwhelming medical bills. Gould Injury Law understands how chaotic those first few moments after a crash can be, which is why taking the right steps early on is crucial to protecting your health and your right to compensation.
1. Ensure Safety and Call for Help
The first thing you should do after a motorcycle accident is to ensure everyone’s safety. Move yourself and others away from oncoming traffic if possible. Turn off your motorcycle’s ignition to prevent fire hazards. Then, immediately call 911 to report the accident and request emergency medical assistance.
Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms until hours later. Having a medical evaluation on record also strengthens any personal injury claim you may file later.
2. Contact Law Enforcement and Obtain a Police Report
When police officers arrive, give a clear and factual account of what happened but avoid admitting fault. Request the officer’s name and badge number, and ensure a formal police report is filed. The report will include critical details such as road conditions, weather, and statements from drivers and witnesses—all essential for your future insurance claim or legal action.
Once the report is ready, request a copy for your records. Gould Injury Law can review the report to identify any discrepancies or key evidence that supports your motorcycle accident claim.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, collect as much information from the accident scene as possible. Take photos of:
- The vehicles involved
- Skid marks, debris, and traffic signs
- Visible injuries and damaged gear
- License plates and insurance cards of all drivers
Exchange contact details with witnesses, as their testimony can help prove fault. If you can’t document the scene yourself, ask a bystander or family member to do so on your behalf.
4. Seek Comprehensive Medical Treatment
Some riders make the mistake of delaying treatment, hoping their pain will fade with time. However, delaying medical care can worsen injuries and weaken your personal injury case. Follow all medical recommendations, including physical therapy or diagnostic imaging. Keep detailed records of your medical bills, prescriptions, and treatment plans, these documents are vital in proving the value of your damages.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company (But Be Cautious)
You’ll need to inform your insurance company about the crash as soon as possible. However, be careful with your words—insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Avoid recorded statements or signing anything until you’ve spoken with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.
An attorney can handle all communications with the insurance companies, ensuring you don’t accept a low settlement offer or say something that could be used against you later.
6. Keep Track of All Expenses and Losses
Motorcycle crashes can lead to enormous financial strain. In addition to medical expenses, you may face lost wages, property damage, or long-term rehabilitation costs. Maintain a record of every expense, from towing fees to replacement gear. These details will help your attorney calculate the true value of your claim and pursue the compensation you deserve.
7. Consult a Hartford Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Before dealing with insurance adjusters or signing any settlement offers, contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. At Gould Injury Law, we know how to build a strong case by collecting crucial evidence, consulting medical experts, and negotiating aggressively for fair compensation.
Our attorneys understand that every motorcycle crash is different. We investigate liability, determine the at-fault driver, and protect riders from the tactics insurance companies use to reduce payouts. If negotiations fail, we’re ready to take your case to court to fight for your rights.
8. Protect Your Rights from Day One
In Connecticut, victims typically have two years from the date of a motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to recover damages altogether. That’s why it’s critical to act fast, preserve evidence, and seek legal help immediately.
Take Action with Gould Injury Law Today
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Hartford, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Gould Injury Law are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve — and we do it fast. Call 888-WIN-FAST today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you protect your health, your rights, and your future.
