Move out of traffic if you can. Turn on the driver’s hazards if a vehicle is involved. Keep your damaged bike and helmet as-is—don’t ride away.

Request police and EMS. Tell dispatch it’s a vehicle–bicycle collision (or road hazard/dooring). Get the report number and responding agency.

• Driver name, phone, license number; vehicle make, model, plate
• Insurance company & policy number
• Passenger and witness names/phones (ask nearby stores if anyone saw it)
• If hit-and-run: note direction, vehicle description; ask police to check nearby cameras

• Lane positions, traffic signals/signs, skid marks, debris, door location if dooring
• Your bike damage (frame, wheels, fork), helmet, clothing tears, visible injuries
• Driver’s vehicle damage; street lighting; potholes/road defects
• Nearby businesses/homes that may have security cameras

Mention it was a vehicle–bicycle collision so the mechanism is documented. Keep ER/urgent-care records, imaging, and discharge instructions.

Report to your auto insurer (you may have MedPay/UM coverage). Provide basics only to the adverse insurer; consider counsel before any recorded statement.

• Keep your bike, helmet, and clothing—don’t repair yet
• Save Strava/Garmin/Apple Watch data; back up ride files
• Ask nearby businesses for video; request traffic/dashcam if available
• Have counsel send a spoliation letter to preserve vehicle EDR data and store footage

Early legal action helps secure video and data, handle adjusters, and guide repairs and medical care.

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