One of the few benefits of lockdown was the huge increase in the numbers of us taking to our bikes to exercise and travel around our local areas on two wheels.
For some it meant going into the garden shed or garage to find the bikes that might have been left unridden for months, maybe years in some circumstances, whilst for others it was a case of going online to buy new bikes or first bikes for the younger members of the family.
There were a lot more of us taking to the roads, bike paths and tracks and inevitably, there was an increase in the number of accidents taking place.
Our Personal Injury department is working on behalf of several new clients who are making cycling accident claims.
Accidents with other cyclists, with motor vehicles or those who have fallen, or crashed due to road surfaces in disrepair are the most frequent reasons provided.
Can You Make a Claim Following a Bike Accident?
Yes, you can. If you suffered a physical or psychological injury in an accident whilst on your bike and you do not consider yourself to be at fault, then you have every right to pursue a claim.
Clearly demonstrating that the other person/party involved was negligent is very important, and that it was because of this that you suffered your injuries.
You do need to register your claim within three years of the date of the accident.
Steps to Take Following a Cycle Accident
- Your health and wellbeing should always be the primary focus. Make sure you seek an appropriate medical assessment by a doctor because some injuries will not be immediately apparent and can take a couple of days to manifest and start to show symptoms. Back and neck injuries typically fall into this category as does concussion, whiplash, and some psychological issues.
- Make sure you exchange details with the other person(s) involved. It is important that you collect as much information as possible including their name, address and phone number/email and the registration number of the vehicle and insurance details (if one was involved).
- Many of us now have camera phones. We recommend taking photos to show damage caused by the accident, the location of the accident, road/weather conditions and any other factors you might consider having played a part in the incident.
Video evidence can also be used so if you were filming your journey at the time of the accident make sure you retain the footage.
If you did not have access to a camera or video when the accident occurred, we recommend you return to the location as soon as possible to take photos. This is particularly relevant should the accident have been a result of poor road conditions for example a pot hole.
- You should consider contacting the police to report the accident. They will be able to confirm the contact details of the other party involved and provide you with an incident number.
- If your bike, clothing (including bike helmet and accessories) has been damaged by the accident you must keep all receipts so they can be included in any claim that is pursued.
Can You Claim for Loss of Earning?
If you are unable to work because of your bike accident you are also entitled to claim for loss of earnings. You will need to provide evidence depending upon your employment status and you can still claim compensation if you were out of work at the time and the accident prevented you from actively looking for work.
For those that use their bicycle as the main means of transport, you can include any additional expenses you incurred taking public or private transport. You will need to keep all the receipts.
How to Make a Claim
If you have been involved in a bike accident that was not your fault, please get in touch with our team of personal injury experts, who will be happy to help you pursue your claim. We operate on a No Win-No Fee basis.
