Being in a motorcycle accident is scary and disorienting. In the moments that follow, you’re probably overwhelmed—dealing with pain, damage to your bike, and insurance companies asking a lot of questions. It’s a lot. And unfortunately, some well-intentioned decisions made in the chaos of the aftermath can end up hurting your claim.
At the Parrish Law Firm, we’ve helped countless motorcycle accident victims across Virginia. We know what helps a case—and what can hurt it. Our goal is to make everything easier for you by guiding you through the process and helping you avoid common missteps that could cost you money, time, and peace of mind.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, here’s what you need to know.
What Are the Most Common Mistakes Motorcycle Accident Victims Make in Virginia?
Here are the most frequent mistakes we see riders make after a crash—and how to avoid them:
1. Not Calling the Police
Even if the damage seems minor or you feel okay, always call the police. You’ll need a police report to document what happened, who was involved, and what was said at the scene. Without it, it’s your word against the other driver’s.
2. Not Seeking Medical Attention Right Away
Motorcycle injuries often show up hours or even days later. You might think you’re fine, but if you delay treatment, the insurance company might argue your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or that they aren’t serious.
3. Talking Too Freely to the Insurance Company
Adjusters may seem friendly, but they’re trained to look for ways to deny or minimize your claim. Saying something as simple as, “I didn’t see the other driver” could be used to place fault on you—especially under Virginia’s contributory negligence rule.
4. Not Collecting Evidence at the Scene
Photos, witness contact info, helmet condition, road conditions—these things can all be valuable later. Once the scene is cleared, a lot of that evidence is gone for good.
5. Posting on Social Media
This one’s easy to overlook. Posting about your crash or showing yourself out and about while you’re supposed to be recovering can seriously damage your credibility.
How Can I Avoid Mistakes That Could Hurt My Virginia Motorcycle Accident Claim?
You can protect your case by keeping these steps in mind:
- Get medical care immediately. Even if you’re unsure about the severity of your injuries.
- Follow your doctor’s orders. Skipping appointments or ending treatment early can hurt your claim.
- Keep everything. Bills, prescriptions, photos, repair estimates—save it all.
- Avoid giving a recorded statement to insurance companies. You’re not required to, and it can be risky.
- Call an attorney early. The sooner we’re involved, the better we can guide you and protect your case.
What Should I Do (and Not Do) Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident in Virginia?
DO:
- Call 911. Report the accident and get medical help on scene.
- Take photos. Your bike, the other vehicle, road conditions, injuries, and traffic signs.
- Exchange information. Get the other driver’s contact and insurance details.
- Talk to witnesses. Get names and phone numbers if anyone saw the crash.
- Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. The sooner you talk to us, the more we can do to help.
DON’T:
- Don’t admit fault—even if you’re trying to be polite.
- Don’t leave the scene before police arrive.
- Don’t post about the accident online.
- Don’t accept a quick settlement before you know the full cost of your injuries.
- Don’t give a recorded statement to the insurance company without legal advice.
How Can I Protect My Legal Rights After a Motorcycle Accident in Virginia?
Virginia has some of the toughest personal injury laws in the country. Under pure contributory negligence, if you’re found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. That’s why protecting your rights starts immediately after the crash.
Here’s what you can do:
- Don’t admit fault. Even a simple apology can be taken out of context.
- Document everything. The more proof you have, the harder it is to dispute your claim.
- Let an attorney handle the insurance company. We’ll deal with adjusters and make sure your words aren’t twisted against you.
- Stay off social media. Insurance companies do check.
- Start your claim as soon as possible. Virginia has a two-year statute of limitations, but the sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
Why Is It Important to Seek Legal Advice After a Motorcycle Accident in Virginia?
There’s a lot at stake after a motorcycle accident—your health, your finances, and your future. A good attorney doesn’t just file paperwork. We help protect you from being blamed, make sure every dollar you’ve lost is accounted for, and stand up to insurance companies trying to minimize your claim.
At the Parrish Law Firm, we’ve built our reputation by helping injury victims across Virginia recover what they’re truly owed. We don’t take shortcuts. We don’t let insurance companies bully our clients. And we never charge a fee unless we win your case.
If you’re unsure about what to do next, we’re here to help you figure it out.
Contact the Parrish Law Firm for a FREE Motorcycle Accident Consultation
At the Parrish Law Firm, we know how hard it is to deal with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident. You’re hurt, overwhelmed, and trying to make the right choices. That’s why we make this process easier—from day one. We handle the legal side, fight for your compensation, and give you the peace of mind you deserve.
Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
- A free consultation—no pressure, just answers.
- No fees unless we win. We don’t get paid until you do.
- Personal, responsive support. You’ll never feel like just another case file.
Call the Parrish Law Firm today for your FREE case review. Let’s talk about your accident, your options, and how we can help you move forward. Your recovery starts with one simple step.