First actions
The same calm sequence applies across crash types, but the useful evidence can differ.
- Address immediate danger and medical needs
- Record the precise road, cross street or freeway
- Exchange available party and insurance information
- Identify witnesses and the responding agency
- Back up photos, video and messages without editing originals
Evidence specific to this crash
Collect only what is safe and available. Do not enter traffic, confront another person or delay care to complete a checklist.
- Any plate characters, vehicle color, body type and direction of travel
- Damage transfer, debris and marks without disturbing them
- Witness descriptions in each witness's own words
- Nearby business, transit, traffic or residential camera locations
- Call, online-report or incident confirmation from the responding agency
San Jose reports and records
Save any incident card and check the official page for the agency that investigated. Separately check the California DMV's reporting criteria; a police report, insurer notice and DMV report are different records.