The vast majority of products we buy in our day-to-day life work as they’re supposed to, thanks to consumer safety laws that place strict requirements on manufacturers to test and regulate goods before they reach our homes. But every so often, faulty or defective products make it onto shelves and into people’s homes. In some cases, these faults are minor inconveniences; in others, they lead to serious injury.

This is where product safety laws come in. Manufacturers, retailers, and distributors are responsible for making sure the products they sell are safe to use. When a faulty or defective product causes harm, legal protections exist to hold them accountable. But what does this mean if you’ve been A motorcycle accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. Unlike car accidents, motorcyclists are more vulnerable to serious injuries, making it crucial to take the right steps immediately after an accident.

At Switalskis, we know that recovering from a motorcycle accident is about more than just physical healing. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you may be able to claim compensation for your injuries, lost earnings and medical costs. This guide explains the steps you should take after a motorcycle accident, how to deal with insurance claims and when legal advice might be necessary.

Call emergency services

If there are injuries, road obstructions, or multiple vehicles involved, calling 999 should be a priority. The emergency services can provide immediate medical assistance, secure the scene, and make sure the accident is properly documented. A police report serves as an official record of the accident, detailing the road conditions, statements from those involved, witness accounts, and any preliminary fault assessments. This report can be a key piece of evidence when dealing with insurance companies or making a motorcycle accident claim .

If you are physically able, you should stay at the scene until the police arrive, unless you require urgent medical attention. When giving your statement, remain factual and avoid speculation - let the evidence determine what happened. If you are unsure about any details, it is better to say so rather than guess. The police may also conduct breathalyser or drug tests if they suspect a driver was impaired, which could be relevant to your claim.

If the police do not attend the scene, you should report the accident at a police station as soon as possible. In the UK, you are legally required to report certain road traffic accidents to the police within 24 hours, particularly if the other party refuses to provide their details or if there is damage to another vehicle or property. Keeping a record of this report and obtaining a reference number will help if you need to claim compensation later.

Prioritise your health

Even if your injuries seem minor, adrenaline can mask pain, and some conditions - such as internal injuries or concussions - are not immediately apparent. Even if you are able to leave the scene and feel fine, it’s important that you speak to a medical professional soon after your accident - because records of your medical appointments, treatments and costs are all vital evidence for your motorcycle accident claim.

Gather information and evidence

If it is safe to do so, collect as much evidence as possible at the accident scene - this evidence will be essential in building a strong compensation claim. Key details to gather include:

• The contact details of any parties involved, including their name, phone number and address.
• The insurance details of any drivers involved in the accident.
• The registration numbers of all vehicles involved.
• The contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident happen.

Taking photographs of the scene is one of the most important things you can do. Capture images of your motorbike, any damage to other vehicles, the road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries sustained. If there were any hazards that contributed to the crash - such as potholes or spillages - make sure to take photos of these as well.

When to seek legal advice

Speaking to a personal injury solicitor can help you understand your legal options and what compensation you may be entitled to. Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries, ongoing medical costs and financial strain. A solicitor can assess your case, gather evidence, and help you build a strong claim for the compensation you deserve.

You may have grounds for a motorcycle accident claim if:

• Another driver’s negligence caused the accident: if a motorist failed to check their blind spot, ran a red light or made an unsafe manoeuvre, they may be held responsible for the crash.
• Poor road conditions contributed to the accident: potholes, lack of signage, or inadequate road maintenance can create hazards for motorcyclists, potentially making the local council or highway authority liable.
• A defective motorcycle part or faulty repair work played a role: if a mechanical failure, such as brake malfunction or a defective tyre, caused the accident, the manufacturer or a garage responsible for recent repairs may be at fault.
• Your insurance company is not offering a fair settlement: some insurers try to reduce payouts or dispute valid claims. A motorcycle accident solicitor can negotiate on your behalf to secure the compensation you are entitled to.

A motorcycle accident claim can cover medical costs, rehabilitation expenses, lost wages, and compensation for the pain and suffering caused by the accident. In cases of life-altering injuries, compensation may also include future care needs, home modifications and loss of future earnings.

Every case is different, and having an experienced solicitor by your side ensures that you understand your rights and receive the best possible outcome. Seeking legal advice early can also help preserve crucial evidence, avoid mistakes that could weaken your claim, and make sure that you are not pressured into accepting a lower settlement than you deserve.

How Switalskis can help

At Switalskis, our team will seek the compensation you deserve. We handle motorcycle accident claims on a no win, no fee basis, so there is no financial risk in starting the claims process. This means you won’t have to pay any upfront legal fees, and if your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t owe anything.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, call us on 0800 1380 458 or reach out via our website to find out how we can support you.