How to Preserve Your Bike and Gear as Evidence
Your bike, helmet, and gear tell the story of the crash and the forces on your body. Preserving them can be critical, especially if a defect or road hazard is a possibility.
Do not repair or discard anything yet
Hold off on repairs, and do not throw out a damaged helmet or gear, until you have advice. Repairs can destroy evidence of how the crash happened.
Store the bike safely
Keep the bike in a secure place and avoid having it thrown away. Note where it is stored.
Photograph everything before anything changes
Take detailed photos of the bike, wheels, frame, brakes, and gear from all angles before moving or cleaning them.
Flag a possible defect
If a component may have failed, say so early so the part can be preserved and examined before it is lost.
Keep receipts and records
Save purchase and repair records for the bike and gear — they can matter for both liability and value.
The deadlines and rules depend on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to bicycle accidents.
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This is general information, not legal advice. Every situation is different, and the law differs by state.