Settlement for a cyclist injured in France

Our client was cycling in France with his son during a summer holiday. As they approached a bend on a long, straight section of road, his son was ahead on the far right‑hand side. He followed slightly to the left so he could see ahead, while still remaining on the correct side of the road.

As they reached the bend, a driver came towards them at speed from the opposite direction and crossed onto the wrong side of the road. Our client tried to swerve, but the car collided with him, throwing him from his bike and leaving him with very serious injuries.

His injuries were serious and affected many parts of his life, bringing their family holiday to an abrupt halt. He sustained fractures to his thumb, pelvis and lower back, a shoulder injury, a deep laceration to his thigh and a mild traumatic head and brain injury. Fortunately, he was wearing a helmet, which took much of the impact and was badly damaged in the collision. He also developed Post‑Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Before the accident, he worked as a consultant in construction. He needed significant time away from work before returning part‑time, and he hasn’t been able to return to his pre‑accident work levels.

He required help with daily tasks and remained restricted in hobbies he once enjoyed, including cycling, long‑distance walking, swimming and skiing. Our client took great enjoyment in his very active lifestyle, and losing aspects of that activity level was difficult for him.

Because our client is from the UK but the collision happened in France, his claim fell under French law. Even so, he was still able to bring his case in the UK, and we guided him through the extra steps involved in an international claim.

The legal process wasn’t straightforward. The defendant’s insurer challenged parts of the procedure, which created delays and uncertainty at a time when our client really needed clarity. The court had to resolve these issues before the case could move forward, and once it did, progress became steadier and more predictable.

Throughout the claim, we made sure that our client understood what was happening and why. Tim Kirfield, a senior associate, led the case with consistency and clarity, keeping the process manageable and helping him feel confident as the claim moved ahead.

With the procedural challenge behind them, both sides were able to negotiate. The claim settled for a six‑figure sum, allowing our client to move on from the accident and concentrate on his recovery.

The settlement gives our client and his family stability as he continues to recover and get back to being himself again. It acknowledges the significant challenges this incident brought to their lives, both physically and practically, and supports the progress he has already made. Most importantly, it gives our client the space to rebuild confidence and independence after a frightening experience abroad.

If you’ve been injured abroad and need guidance on what to do next, our international injury team can help you understand your options. For cycling‑related incidents, you can also read more about cycling accident claims and how we support injured riders.