Making a cycling accident claim

Cycling became more popular than ever during the Covid-19 lockdowns, with bike shops selling out of stock. But with more cyclists on the roads, the risks rise.

Cyclists don’t have the protection of a vehicle surrounding them, making them some of the most vulnerable road users. The Department for Transport (DFT) found that in 2022, 19,327 cyclists were injured on British roads.

If you’ve been involved in an accident on your bike that was caused by someone else in the last three years, you could be able to claim compensation. First4InjuryClaims is here to help you do that.

Our team has the experience and skills to drive your claim forward. We'll help reduce the stress you’re under by making the claim process as straightforward and simple as possible.

What kind of cycling accidents can I claim for?

Driver or rider error or reaction was the leading contributing factor to accidents in 2022, according to the DFT. The most common error was failing to look properly, which presents a real danger to cyclists, who can often be missed by drivers.

The kinds of accidents that these mistakes can cause include:

• Cyclists being hit at junctions or roundabouts
• Vehicle doors being opened into a cyclist's path
• Vehicles emerging from side roads into cyclists
• Vehicles turning across a cyclist’s path

You could also be involved in an accident that was caused by road conditions or your bike’s equipment failing. You could still be able to make a claim for these accidents. The expert team at First4InjuryClaims will help you work out whether you have a claim.

How much compensation can I claim?

The amount of compensation you could receive for your injury will be based on personal injury guidelines. For example, a minor wrist fracture could see you awarded up to £4,450.

Meanwhile, a broken leg that you recover fully from could see up to £8,550 in compensation. Minor injuries like cuts and bruises could see you awarded up to £2,300 when your recovery takes up to three months.

You can also claim for a loss of earnings if you haven’t been able to work, as well as anything that was damaged in the accident or anything you’ve had to spend money on as a result of your injury.

This can include:

• Bicycle repairs or a replacement
• Medical care, including medication or treatment like physiotherapy
• Personal belongings, like your clothing, watch or helmet
• Travel to and from medical appointment

Keep any receipts and invoices from whatever you’ve had to buy as a result of your accident. you’ll need them to claim back what you spent.

If you have any questions about what you’re entitled to claim for, just ask. Our team are here to make sure you understand the process of claiming and that you’re confident in going ahead.

How can I pay for my claim?

Our priority is ensuring everyone has access to justice. That’s why, if we think your claim has prospects, we’ll enter into a No Win No Fee agreement with you.

This means there is nothing to pay upfront, letting you focus on your recovery rather than thinking about how to fund your claim.

There’s also nothing to pay if your claim is not successful. If it is successful, we will receive payment of our fees. This will be up to a maximum of 35% of your compensation plus VAT, but the exact figure will depend on the type of accident you were in.

Is there a time limit to make a claim?

In most cases, you’ll have three years from the date of your accident to make a claim. It’s always a good idea to start your claim as soon as you can. This way, the details may be clearer in your mind and you might find it easier to get hold of certain pieces of evidence.

There are some exceptions to this rule, though. If you’re claiming on behalf of a child, for example, you can begin your claim at any point until they turn 18. From that date, they will then have three years to make their own claim.

And if you’re claiming on behalf of someone who lacks the capacity to claim for themselves, you won’t face a deadline, unless they regain capacity.

Do I need evidence to make a claim?

Evidence will help make your claim stronger. We will help you identify the strongest pieces of evidence you can submit with your claim.

This could include:

• CCTV or helmet camera footage of the accident
• Medical reports – as part of your claim, you’ll have to undergo a medical assessment
• Photographs and video footage of your injuries and the accident scene
• Police reports
• Witness details and statements

We’re here to help with all aspects of your claim, so if you have any questions about what will give you the best chance of success, just ask. You can get in touch by phone or email – however is most convenient for you. Our aim is to make the process as simple as possible for you.