Cycling accident claims

In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident, or from the date you first became aware of your injuries, to make a cycling accident claim. If you’re making a claim on behalf of a child, or someone who lacks the mental capacity to claim for themselves, the standard three-year limit may not apply in the same way.

Even so, it’s always best to get in touch as soon as you can. Evidence is easier to gather closer to the time of the accident, and the sooner we can start, the stronger your case is likely to be.

The timescale depends on the complexity of your case. Straightforward claims can sometimes be resolved within a few months. More complex cases can take longer, especially where we need to wait for your condition to stabilise before we can fully assess the impact.

Your solicitor will give you a clearer picture of likely timescales once they understand the details of your situation.

The first step is to get in touch with our team. Before you do, it helps to gather as much evidence as you can. But don’t worry if you don’t have everything; we can help you work out what’s needed.

We’ll listen to what happened, explain your options clearly, and tell you honestly whether we think you have a valid cycling accident claim. There’s no obligation to proceed.

Most cycling accident claims are settled before they reach court. However, if liability is strongly disputed or a fair settlement can’t be reached, court proceedings may become necessary. 

If that happens, your solicitor will prepare you fully and guide you through the process. The prospect of court can feel daunting, but it’s relatively uncommon, and we’ll always keep you informed about where things stand.

Yes. If you were hit by a car while cycling and the driver was at fault, you may be able to make a cycling accident claim. You could still be eligible to claim even if the driver disputes liability or failed to stop after the collision. Our specialists can advise you on the strength of your case based on the specific circumstances.

Cycling accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from road rash to more serious injuries or fatal injuries. We handle cases across the full spectrum of severity, and we understand the physical and emotional impact these injuries can have, not just on you, but on your whole family.

Cycling accidents can happen in many ways, but certain types of incidents are more common than you think. If any of the scenarios below apply to your situation, you could be eligible to pursue a cycling accident claim.

Hit by a car while cycling

Being hit by a car while cycling is one of the most serious and frightening types of cycling accidents. These incidents often occur when drivers fail to look properly, misjudge a cyclist’s speed or distance, or pull out at junctions without giving way.

Dooring accidents

Door accidents happen when a driver or passenger opens a vehicle door into the path of a cyclist without checking for them first. These collisions can cause cyclists to be thrown from their bike or in the way of other traffic, leading to serious injuries. 

Potholes and road defects

Potholes or uneven roads and defective cycle lanes can all cause cyclists to become unbalanced, lose control of the bike, and ultimately crash. In some cases, a claim can be made against the local authority responsible for maintaining the road.

Roundabout accidents

Bike accidents at roundabouts often occur when drivers fail to give cyclists enough space, drive across their path, or fail to see them at all. These accidents can be complex.

Your health should come first. Seek medical attention if you need it and make sure the accident is reported appropriately. Where possible, it can help to:

1. Record the vehicle details, including the registration number.
2. Take photos or videos of the scene, road conditions, bicycle damage, and visible injuries.
3. Get contact details from witnesses.
4. Report the collision to the police, where appropriate.
5. Keep medical records and details of any treatment.
6. Keep receipts and evidence of financial losses, such as repair costs, travel expenses, or lost earnings.
7. Avoid accepting an immediate settlement before understanding the extent of your injuries and losses.
8. Seek specialist legal advice if you’re unsure about responsibility or your rights.

Don’t worry if you’re unable to collect all of this at the scene. Our cycling accident solicitors can help identify and obtain relevant evidence for your case.

Every claim is different, but most bike accident claims follow four key stages.

Initial assessment

We’ll listen to what happened, how you were injured, and how the accident has affected you. We’ll explain whether we believe you may have a valid claim and what the next steps would involve.

Evidence gathering

We’ll collect evidence about your accident and injuries. This may include:

• Police reports
• CCTV or dashcam footage
• Photographs
• Witness statements
• Medical records
• Expert medical reports
• Evidence of financial losses
  

Establishing responsibility

We’ll contact the responsible party or their insurer and set out the basis of your claim. Liability may be admitted, disputed, or shared between more than one party.

Compensation

Once the full impact of your injuries and losses is understood, we’ll negotiate to secure fair cycle accident compensation. Most claims settle without a court hearing. If the other side disputes responsibility or a fair settlement cannot be reached, we’ll advise you on the next steps.