If you’re an Indiana motorcyclist, you already know the roads can be risky—even for the safest riders. When the unexpected happens and you’re involved in a crash, what you do in the minutes and days that follow can make all the difference in your physical recovery and your financial future.
Unfortunately, there’s one critical mistake we see riders make again and again after an accident—and it can cost them thousands.
The Biggest Mistake: Talking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Advice
After a crash, it’s natural to want to “get things over with.” Insurance adjusters know this, and they often call soon after an accident—sometimes even while you’re still in the hospital—asking for your version of events or a recorded statement.
Here’s the #1 mistake: Giving a recorded statement to the insurance company before you talk to a lawyer.
Why Is This So Dangerous?
Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize what they pay out, not to make you whole. They may seem friendly, but anything you say—especially if you’re shaken up or unsure of the details—can be twisted or taken out of context to reduce your claim. You might accidentally:
- Downplay your injuries (“I’m feeling okay,” even when you’re not)
- Guess about accident details (“I think I might have been going a little fast…”)
- Admit fault or partial fault, even if the other party was negligent
Even a small misstatement can mean the difference between a fair settlement and walking away with nothing.
How to Avoid This Costly Mistake
Here’s what you should do instead:
- Get Medical Attention First. Your health comes first. Always seek immediate care, even if you feel fine.
- Report the Crash to Police. This creates an official record of what happened.
- Gather Evidence. If you’re able, collect contact information for witnesses, take photos of the scene, your bike, and your injuries, and keep copies of all documents.
- Politely Decline to Give a Recorded Statement. If an insurance adjuster calls, simply say, “I am not comfortable giving a statement right now,” or “I’d like to speak with my attorney first.”
- Contact an Experienced Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer. An attorney can handle communications with insurers, protect your rights, and help you recover the maximum compensation you deserve.
Why This Matters for Indiana Riders
Indiana’s fault-based insurance system means that the at-fault party is responsible for damages—but it also means insurance companies will look for any reason to blame the rider. Protect yourself from the start by letting a skilled attorney handle the paperwork and negotiations.
Don’t Let a Simple Mistake Cost You Your Recovery
At Ladendorf Fregiato & Bigler, we’ve seen too many good people lose out on the compensation they deserve because they trusted the insurance company to “do the right thing.” Don’t let that happen to you. If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Indianapolis or anywhere in Indiana, contact us before you talk to insurance—and let us fight for you.
Have questions about your accident? Call 317-597-5887 or send us a message for a free, no-pressure consultation.