Preserve the bicycle as a complete system

Do not focus only on a bent wheel. Photograph the frame, fork, wheels, brakes, handlebars, pedals and accessories before repair or disassembly when practical. Medical care and a safe scene remain the first priorities.

  • Both sides of the bicycle and every contact point
  • Helmet, lights, reflectors, clothing, bags and carried items
  • Serial number and any pre-crash photographs or service record
  • Who transported or stored the bicycle after the crash
  • Parts removed by a shop, labeled and photographed if retained
SourcesSan Jose Police Department California Department of Insurance

Capture the rider's line through the roadway

Photograph the approach, point of contact and intended path. Bike-lane boundaries, driveway openings, parked-car doors, surface hazards and visibility can be missed in close photographs of damage.

  • Bike lane, general lane, crossing or shoulder used by the rider
  • Lane markings, signs, signals and nearby curb geometry
  • Potholes, grates, debris or surface changes visible at the scene
  • Vehicle position, plate and damage when safely observable
  • Original ride-computer, camera, app or device export if available

Record the route for the agency search

Save the exact San Jose street, nearest cross street, direction and facility type, along with the responding-agency name. Follow the agency's official collision-report instructions; do not substitute an insurer's claim summary or bike-shop assessment for the report.

Separately review whether the DMV's SR-1 criteria apply.

  • Road or path name and nearest intersection
  • Direction of bicycle and vehicle travel
  • Officer agency and incident or report reference
  • Agency-request record and DMV filing record kept separately
SourcesSan Jose Police Department California Highway Patrol California Department of Motor Vehicles

Separate condition evidence from value evidence

A photograph shows condition; a receipt, model specification or shop estimate helps identify the item and requested work. Keep both without asking a repair shop to decide questions outside its role.

  • Written shop inspection and repair estimate
  • Purchase records for the bicycle, helmet and accessories if available
  • Replacement quotes labeled by item
  • Transportation costs while the bicycle is unavailable
  • Insurer messages and claim references in chronological order
SourcesCalifornia Department of Insurance