What to Do in Case of a Motorcycle Crash

While a motorcycle crash is obviously something you should do everything you can to avoid, it’s still important to know how to react should the worst happen. Your behavior directly before, during, and after the crash can go a long way toward minimizing injuries. That’s why North County Indian Motorcycle® has created this guide about what to do should you get into a motorcycle crash.

Before the Motorcycle Crash

What you do during the few seconds between realizing that you are going to crash and the event itself can make a huge difference. However, since you will only have a few seconds, it is very important that you have a plan ahead of time. Start by using your brakes to slow down as much as possible while scanning the area ahead for obstacles. Aim for the softest spot you can see in order to minimize injury to yourself and damage to your bike.

During the Motorcycle Crash

It may be tempting to let your instincts take over during the crash. However, many of these instincts are actually more likely to result in injury. For example, your body’s natural response will be to tense up. However, you will be more likely to avoid injury if your body is relaxed and limp at the time of impact. Your instinct will also be to reach out your arms and brace for impact. Instead, you should tuck in your limbs to avoid sprained or broken bones. It is also important to remember to let go of your motorcycle. While this would be a bad idea under most circumstances, letting go during a crash makes it less likely that you will end up under the bike.

After the Motorcycle Crash

After the crash, stop and count to five. Once you are confident that you have completely stopped moving, only then should you attempt to get up. If you are in the middle of the road, move to the side so that you are out of the path of other vehicles. Take a moment to inspect yourself for injuries. Adrenaline can dampen pain, so some injuries might not be immediately obvious without a thorough inspection. From there you can move on to steps such as exchanging insurance information, calling a tow truck, or getting yourself medical attention.

For more information or to shop motorcycle models, visit North County Indian Motorcycle®. We have locations in both San Marcos and Corona, California. We also offer financing, servicing, parts ordering, and rentals. We are proud to serve communities like San Diego and Oceanside, California. We hope to see you soon!