If you’re a motorcycle rider who loves the open road, an accident might not be able to keep you down for long. However, you should be extremely careful when getting back on a bike after a collision, especially if you have an active accident claim.
Here’s what to know about riding after recovering from a motorcycle accident and how we can help you navigate a legal claim.
Understanding the Process of Recovering from a Motorcycle Crash
Motorcycle accidents are extremely dangerous and have a high rate of mortality compared to other types of motor vehicle accidents.
In 2024 alone, the number of fatal motorcycle accidents increased by 22% from the prior year, according to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation.
Those who do survive are often faced with massive hospital bills, disability, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Further Reading: Why PTSD Is a Real Issue After a Motorcycle Wreck
When Can You Ride a Motorcycle Again After an Accident?
It’s hard to know when it’s the right time to get back on your bike. Each accident victim’s recovery period is different, and how long this lasts typically reflects the severity of the incident and your injuries.
Here are some things you may want to consider when deciding when to ride again after a crash:
Your Physical Condition
Motorcycle accidents often have symptoms that last for months or even years after the collision. Even if you feel great and are eager to ride, it’s important to make sure your body is ready for the next adventure.
Always wait until after you receive explicit clearance to ride again from your doctor or physical therapist.
Your Emotional State
The psychological impact of a crash can also last a long time after the initial accident. If you’ve been hesitant to ride for reasons you can’t quite put your finger on, you may still be dealing with the emotional fallout.
While it’s normal to feel a little apprehensive or nervous about your first ride after an accident, you should be mostly enthusiastic. It may be better to work through any fears or negative emotions surrounding the incident with a therapist or counselor before thinking about getting back out on the road.
If You Have a Pending Legal Claim
If you have a pending accident claim, you may even want to wait until this is settled or a verdict is issued before you ride your motorcycle again. Otherwise, the other side may try to suggest that the accident couldn’t have affected you that badly if you’re still able to ride.
If you think they won’t catch you riding, think again. You can be confident that the defendant’s legal team is keeping an eye on you for anything they can use to discredit your claim. This includes monitoring your social media accounts and even assigning a private detective to watch your house.
Tips for Getting Back Out on the Road Safely
When your case is settled, here are some simple tips to stay safe on the road:
- Upgrade your gear. Now that you know how crucial protective gear is in a motorcycle accident, it’s a great time to invest in better gear or to buy pieces you don’t yet have.
- Have your bike checked. Before riding, take your motorcycle to a mechanic to make sure it’s ready for the road. This is especially crucial if your bike wasn’t in use at all during your recovery.
- Ease into riding. Start with short trips in areas you’re familiar with or that don’t have a lot of traffic. Practice riding at night and in different environmental conditions until you become more comfortable with handling your bike again.
- Ride with support. If you have friends or family members that ride, ask them to come with you on your first few trips back out. Or, let them know where you’ll be riding and when you expect to be back so they can keep a watchful eye.
Further Reading: Top Safety Necessities for Motorcycle Riders
Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Our Legal Team Is Here to Help
If you or someone in your family were in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, we can help walk you through the steps of recovery and help you pursue compensation. Contact our Salem personal injury law firm today by calling (978) 744-8000, or you can reach us toll-free by dialing (855) 693-9084.
