5 Things Your Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Wishes You Knew Before You Ride
Most people think about legal help only after something goes wrong, but the truth is, some of the best protection starts long before an accident ever happens. Our friends at Kiefer & Kiefer discuss a topic that every rider should take seriously: what you should know before getting on your bike. As legal professionals who work with riders every day, we’ve seen firsthand how a few key choices can make a major difference in both safety and how things unfold if a crash does occur.
While riding offers freedom and adrenaline, it also comes with real risks. Being prepared isn’t just about wearing the right gear—it’s also about understanding how your actions today can impact your options tomorrow. Whether you’ve been riding for years or are just starting out, these are things we wish more clients had known before they found themselves needing a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Most Motorcycle Insurance Policies Don’t Go Far Enough
We’ve worked with many riders who thought their coverage was solid—until they needed to use it. Basic motorcycle insurance policies often meet state minimums but fall short when it comes to real-world accidents. Medical bills, lost wages, and repairs can pile up quickly, especially if the other driver has no insurance or inadequate coverage.
One of the most important steps we recommend is reviewing your uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This part of your policy can protect you when the at-fault driver can’t pay. It’s also worth looking at your personal injury protection (PIP) and medical payments (MedPay) options. These add-ons aren’t required in every state, but they can help cover expenses no matter who caused the crash.
Helmet Laws Impact More Than Just Safety
Helmets save lives, and in some states, wearing one is required by law. But even in places where helmets are optional, choosing not to wear one can reduce the amount of compensation you’re able to recover after an accident.
Insurance companies and opposing attorneys often argue that a rider who wasn’t wearing a helmet contributed to their own injuries. This can affect how much you’re awarded, even if the other party was completely at fault. For legal and safety reasons, we strongly recommend always wearing DOT-approved helmets regardless of local law.
What You Say At The Scene Matters
After a crash, emotions run high, and it’s natural to want to explain what happened. However, we’ve seen cases where a rider’s own words were later used against them—even when they weren’t at fault.
Statements like “I didn’t see them” or “I think I was going a little fast” can be taken out of context and twisted to suggest fault. If you’re involved in an accident, focus on getting medical help, calling law enforcement, and documenting the scene. Let the facts speak for themselves and avoid discussing the incident until you’ve spoken with legal counsel.
Video And Photo Evidence Can Be A Game-Changer
In recent years, dashcams and helmet cams have played a major role in settling accident claims. If you’re able to capture footage of the incident, it can help establish who was at fault without relying on witness statements or biased reports.
We always advise riders to consider installing a camera setup that records while you’re on the road. In many cases, video has helped our clients prove what really happened and avoid drawn-out legal battles.
Choosing A Lawyer Who Understands Motorcycle Cases Makes A Difference
Not all attorneys have experience working with riders, and that experience matters. Motorcycle crashes are often more severe than car accidents, and the legal issues can be different in ways that affect your claim.
When you’re looking for someone to represent you, work with a team that regularly handles motorcycle injury claims and understands how these cases work. This background allows us to better assess damages, deal with insurance companies, and represent your interests from a position of knowledge and confidence.
We hope you never need a motorcycle accident lawyer, but we also know that preparation can make all the difference. Taking time to look at your insurance, gear, and riding habits now can save you a lot of pain and stress later. Riding smart isn’t just about the road—it’s about protecting yourself legally, too.
