Short answer
After a bicycle crash, save the bike, helmet, lights, app data, photos, driver information, witness names, medical records, and camera locations. Do not repair the bike before documenting damage.
What to save now
- Keep the bicycle, helmet, lights, clothing, bags, and damaged gear; photograph every item before repair or disposal.
- Save cycling-app data, route information, driver and insurance details, witnesses, medical records, and camera locations.
- Photograph the bike lane, door zone, intersection, traffic controls, road hazard, sight lines, debris, and vehicle damage.
Bike evidence can disappear quickly
The bicycle, helmet, broken lights, torn clothing, GPS app data, and road marks can help explain speed, impact, and direction. Photograph the bike from all angles before repairs.
NHTSA bicycle safety materials highlight common safety issues between bikes and vehicles. For a claim, the focus is the driver conduct, road layout, bike lane, door opening, signal timing, and visibility.
Common bicycle crash patterns
Claims often involve drivers turning across a cyclist, opening a door into the cyclist's path, drifting into a bike lane, failing to yield at intersections, or blaming the rider for being hard to see.
Insurance may still apply
Even though the injured person was on a bicycle, auto insurance may apply if a motor vehicle caused the crash. Other coverage may also be relevant depending on the state and policy language.
Common questions
Should I keep my damaged bicycle?
Yes. Keep the bicycle, helmet, lights, clothing, and any damaged gear until photos and evidence are preserved.
What if the driver left the scene?
Call police, look for nearby cameras, save witness names, and speak with a lawyer about uninsured motorist coverage or other possible recovery sources.
Can I bring a claim if I was riding for work?
Possibly. A delivery rider or messenger may have both injury and work-related issues. The facts, employment status, insurance, and state law matter.
Sources and references
This guide uses primary public sources for safety, medical, regulatory, and insurance context. State law and individual facts can change the legal answer.
- NHTSA bicycle safetyNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- CDC traumatic brain injury basicsCenters for Disease Control and Prevention
- NAIC consumer guide to auto insuranceNational Association of Insurance Commissioners