The aftermath of a motorcycle accident is often chaotic, overwhelming, and confusing. Making the right choices after a collision is crucial to your health, safety, and future recovery, but knowing what to do at the moment can be a challenge, especially when you’re severely injured. Keep reading to learn what to do after a motorcycle accident in Connecticut.

What Are You Required to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Connecticut?

Most people are aware of the requirement to remain at the scene of the accident, as leaving will likely be considered a hit-and-run, which is illegal. What many motorcyclists and drivers may not know is that Connecticut law also requires that you stop and provide assistance to injured motorists. This law also mandates that you provide the following information to the injured person or responding police officer:

  • Your name 
  • Your address
  • Your license number
  • Your registration information

You must notify the police of the accident if it caused any injuries. Connecticut also requires that the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) be notified of accidents that cause property damage or injuries, but most police reports are automatically filed with the DMV. 

Insurance companies require that accidents be reported within a certain timeframe. The exact reporting rules will vary depending on the insurance provider, and your policy contract is the best place to find this information.

What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Connecticut?

In addition to following the post-accident steps that are legally required, there are additional actions you may want to take. Reporting an accident to the police is only required in Connecticut if there are injuries, so property damage alone does not require a call to the police. However, it is a good idea to report any accident to the police. The responding officer will create a police report, which can be a useful document to have if you need to file an injury claim or lawsuit.  

Other steps that are not legally required but are highly recommended:

  • Seek medical attention – some injuries take days or weeks to show symptoms, so you should always have a doctor check you for injuries, even if you feel you have not suffered any significant injury. 
  • Document everything – take photos, videos, or notes of the scene to be used as evidence and refresh your memory later on if you are able. 
  • Contact an attorney – keeping track of the statute of limitations, gathering evidence to support your injury claim, and negotiating a fair settlement is best handled by a lawyer.

The First Step After a Connecticut Motorcycle Accident

Your health and safety are the top priorities after any car accident, and this is especially true if you are involved in a collision while riding your motorcycle. The possibility for severe injury is much higher on a motorcycle compared to passenger vehicles. While rendering aid and providing your information to other people involved in the accident may be required in Connecticut, that only applies if you are safely able to do so. 

The first step after a motorcycle accident is to ensure your medical needs are met. Seek emergency medical attention if needed. Have your physician assess you for injuries even if you think you are not seriously hurt. For example, some symptoms of traumatic brain injury can take weeks to appear

Experienced Legal Guidance After a Connecticut Motorcycle Accident

The attorneys at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC, have a combined 100+ years of experience helping bikers recover damages for their injuries. We’ve seen first-hand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be for riders and passengers, and we are dedicated to fighting for fair compensation to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. We will help guide you after a motorcycle accident in Connecticut.