As the cost of petrol rises, more and more turn to bicycles instead. Unlike drivers, cyclists do not have insurance whilst cycling on the road.

Statistics

The Road Safety Factsheet details 120 cycling fatalities, 3100 serious injuries and over 19,000 cycling accidents in the UK each year.  It is estimated that less severe causalities will go on unreported to the police. The majority of cyclists being hit are male adults with 81% those injured in 2016 being male. Approximately 10% of casualties are children.

The most dangerous hours for cyclists are rush hour periods: between 8am-9am and 3pm-6pm weekdays.

  • 75% happen at or near a junction
  • 80% happen in daylight
  • 75% of fatal or serious accidents happen in urban areas
  • 80% cyclists are male
  • Approximately three quarters of cyclists killed have major head injuries
  • 71% accidents caused by driver/rider human error

Liability

If a cyclist hits a pothole, raised manhole cover or substance within the carriageway and they suffer personal injury then there may be a claim against the local authority or relevant organisation responsible.

However, claims not involving third party motorists are notoriously difficult as a local authority will have a defence to a claim if it can show that it has a reasonable system of inspection and maintenance in place.

In order to succeed with a personal injury claim the burden of proof falls upon the Claimant to prove that the Defendant has acted negligently.

If a motorist hits a cyclist it is very often the case that the motorist has driven negligently and these types of claims are typically easier to pursue.

Do I have to wear high visibility clothing and a helmet in order to claim?

These are often common objections from insurers, if a cyclist is not wearing High-Vis or a helmet. However, neither is obligatory by law.

If you were not wearing a helmet and suffered a head injury, your damages may be reduced if it is proven that your injuries may have been less severe had a helmet been worn.

Unlike a car, a bicycle provides no protection in the event of an accident so it is up to the rider to be appropriately dressed and with good visibility. The most important safety item is a cycling helmet, which according to leading authorities should be worn at all times when cycling, especially by children.

A cyclist who is involved in an accident may suffer a range of injuries from bruises and scratches, fracture, head injury and concussion. In severe cases the injuries may be life-threatening or fatal.

How we can help

If you have suffered injuries whilst cycling, we will fully investigate your case. If you believe your injuries are as a result of negligence of others, we can help.

Even if you are not sure who is to blame we are happy to discuss in complete confidence. We will endeavour to get you back cycling as soon as possible by securing any necessary rehabilitation / treatment. Bicycles and equipment can be very expensive. We will ensure that all losses are taken into account and recovered on your behalf.

Talk to us, and let’s get you back on your bike. Contact our personal injury team on 0113 284 5000, or alternatively email newbusinessenquiries@isonharrison.co.uk.

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