What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Erie County

Riding a motorcycle in Northwestern Pennsylvania offers freedom and excitement — but it also comes with serious risks. In Erie County alone, motorcycle-involved traffic deaths jumped from 12 to 13 in 2024, according to local coroner reports. If you’ve been in a crash, knowing what to do afterward can make a major difference for your safety, recovery and legal rights.

At The Travis Law Firm, our motorcycle accident attorneys serve riders in Erie, Crawford, Warren and surrounding counties. We know this area and we know how to protect injured riders. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to help you navigate what comes next.

1. Ensure Safety & Seek Medical Help Immediately

First and foremost: stop your bike in a safe spot, turn off the engine and put on hazard lights (or signals) if you’re able. Even if you feel okay, adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Immediately call 911 and get medical attention on-scene or at a hospital. A documented medical record is critical for your health and any future claim.

2. Report the Accident & Preserve Evidence

After your initial medical evaluation, it’s important to report the crash to law enforcement. An official police or state-police report helps establish facts: time of day, weather, visibility, road conditions, whether another vehicle failed to see you or turned left in front of you.

Preserve evidence:

• Take photos of your motorcycle damage, skid marks, your gear, and the crash scene.
• Get names and contact info of any witnesses.
• If you’re able, write down what you remember while it’s fresh (visibility, traffic around you, other driver behavior).
• Keep medical reports, bills, and repair estimates.

3. Understand Your Legal Rights & Liability

Motorcycle accidents often involve other vehicles failing to yield, turning left in front of riders, other drivers seeing you too late, or hazardous road conditions. Under Pennsylvania law, you have the right to seek compensation if someone else’s negligence caused the crash.

Recent statewide data shows that registered motorcycles and licensed riders have fluctuated, but risks remain high. Having an attorney who understands how local courts treat motorcycle claims in Northwestern PA can help you understand your rights and build a stronger case.

4. Avoid Common Mistakes After a Crash

Here are frequent missteps riders make — and how you can avoid them:

• Giving a recorded statement to an insurer too soon: Insurance companies often contact you while you’re still recovering. You’re not required to say anything beyond basic identity info until you talk to a lawyer.
• Posting about the crash on social media: What you post can be used by insurers or opposing parties.
• Delaying medical care: Even minor pain should be checked. If injuries worsen later, the gap can hurt your claim.
• Ignoring your gear or protective equipment: Proper gear (helmet, jacket, boots) not only helps safety but strengthens your case if someone tries to blame you.
• Not checking road or traffic conditions: In rural Northwestern PA, things like uneven pavement, leaves, deer crossings or limited lighting contribute to crash risk — having notes/photos of the conditions helps your claim.

5. Work with a Qualified Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

You don’t have to handle everything alone. A skilled attorney will:

• Review your crash report and investigate other vehicles or road conditions.
• Gather evidence from medical providers, witnesses, and scene photos.
• Negotiate with insurers or prepare for trial if necessary.
• Protect your rights while you focus on recovery.

In Erie and surrounding counties, The Travis Law Firm has helped injured riders pursue fair compensation — for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care.

Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Erie, PA: Fighting for Riders’ Rights

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Erie County or anywhere in Northwestern Pennsylvania, don’t wait. Evidence fades and deadlines apply. Contact The Travis Law Firm at (814) 277-2222 or (814) 455-3839, or contact us online today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your rights and help you determine the best path forward. Your focus should be on recovery — let us handle the legal fight.