After a motorcycle accident, things move fast. Injuries and adrenaline can make it hard to focus, but the evidence collected in the moments and days after a crash can be critical. The right evidence can show how the crash happened and who was at fault, making a big difference in your case down the road.
Understanding what counts as evidence after a motorcycle accident can help protect your rights and tell the full story of what happened.
A police report is often one of the most important pieces of evidence. It creates an official record of the crash, including the date, time, location and people involved. Police reports may also include witness statements, diagrams of the scene and notes about what the officer observed. Even if injuries seem minor, calling law enforcement helps ensure the crash is properly documented.
Photos and video can also play a major role. Images of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, road conditions and traffic signs can help show how the crash occurred. Photos of injuries taken soon after the crash can document their severity. If photos cannot be taken at the scene, pictures taken shortly afterward are still useful.
Witnesses can help confirm what happened. Independent witnesses are especially important when a driver claims they did not see the motorcycle. Getting names and contact information can make a difference later if accounts of the crash conflict.
Medical records are another key form of evidence. Emergency treatment, doctor visits, imaging and follow-up care help connect injuries directly to the crash. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible protects your health and creates a clear record of your injuries.
Damaged safety gear and the motorcycle itself can also serve as evidence. Helmets, jackets, gloves and other gear may show the force of impact. Damage to the motorcycle, along with repair estimates, can help explain how the crash occurred. Avoid repairing or discarding damaged items until they are documented.
In some cases, video evidence may be available. Traffic cameras, dash cams, helmet cameras or nearby surveillance systems may have captured the accident. Acting quickly to obtain footage is important, since it is often deleted after a short period of time.
Finally, writing down what you remember as soon as possible after the accident can help preserve details that may fade over time. Even small details may become important later.
Motorcycle crashes are often unfairly blamed on the rider, but strong evidence helps tell the full story, counter inaccurate insurance claims and protect injured motorcyclists from unfair blame. If you are able, start preserving evidence right away. If you are injured, focus on getting medical care and let others help gather information.
At Hupy and Abraham, S.C., we’ve spent decades fighting for riders’ rights and promoting motorcycle awareness. The firm’s “Watch for Motorcycles” campaign has reached millions through TV, billboards, stickers and events, all with the goal of keeping riders safe.
If you’re ever injured in an accident, call Hupy and Abraham right away at 800-800-5678 or chat with us at hupy.com. As riders ourselves, we’re here when you need us, on or off the road.
Ride safe, stay prepared and always “Watch for Motorcycles.”
