On Britain's busy roads, cyclists are incredibly vulnerable. Not only can drivers often fail to leave room or pay sufficient attention, potholes pose an ever-increasing risk of injury. So if you have been injured while cycling, you may be entitled to make a bicycle accident compensation claim.
Our expert cycle accident solicitors are highly ranked in prestigious independent legal directories and have a wealth of experience helping clients secure bike accident compensation
We are proud to have partnerships with national charities and be recognised in the latest legal directories, such as the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners.
Cyclists are among some of the most vulnerable road users. In September 2023, GOV.UK released a report on the number of reported pedal cyclist accidents in Great Britain in 2022 that had resulted in injuries. They confirmed that:
11,546 were slightly injured,
4,056 were seriously injured and tragically,
91 were killed.
If you’ve been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligent actions – whether that’s another road user or even the local authority – you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Sometimes referred to as a bike accident claim or a bicycle injury claim, a cycling accident claim can provide important resources to aid your recovery and support you and your loved ones financially. At Slater and Gordon, our expert solicitors have helped hundreds of clients access the compensation and care they need. If you’ve been injured in a cycling accident, contact us today to find out how we can help you.
What are the most common causes of cycling accident claims?
When you've been injured in a cycling accident where someone else was either fully or partly at fault, you may be able to claim compensation. Some of the most common causes of cycling accidents where compensation has been sought are:
Road traffic collisions, where a driver of a motor vehicle is at fault
Car door collisions, where a driver has not checked their mirror before opening their car door
Animals, such as horses and cattle, causing collisions, where their owner is at fault
Cycling accident claims can sometimes be complex cases and it’s therefore extremely important if you decide to make a claim, that you instruct a specialist cycling accident solicitor to represent you.
What can you claim for after a cycling accident?
A cycling accident claim will seek to compensate you for the injuries caused in the accident, as well as the subsequent impact they have on your quality of life. These are known as general and special damages:
‘General damages’ refers to any physical or mental injuries caused by the accident. The amount that you will receive will be determined by the extent of the injury caused, and by how quickly you are likely to recover, according to a medical expert.
‘Special damages’ refers to any other expenses or losses that you may incur because of your injuries. For example, it can include the loss of any wages if you have been unable to work, any physiotherapy or other treatments you may need to pay for, any adaptations to your home that may be required, or any travel costs (if, for instance, you’ve been unable to drive). Special damages includes both past and future financial losses.
What evidence do I need to make a cycling accident claim?
To make a successful cycling accident claim, you will need to prove that someone else was responsible for the accident and that you suffered unnecessary harm as a result.
To do this, we’ll need to collect evidence that supports your case. The exact type of evidence you may need will depend upon the circumstances of your accident, but it will often include:
Photographic and/or video evidence: If you can, take photos of the accident scene, including road conditions, road signage, and any damage to your bike. You may also be able to request any CCTV footage that could have captured the accident.
Contact details of other parties involved: Speak to any other parties involved in the accident. Get their names and contact details, as well as any vehicle registration numbers and photographic evidence of any damage caused by the accident.
Witness statements: Speak to anyone who witnessed the accident and take their names and contact information (if they are willing).
Medical records: Request copies of your medical and treatment records in the aftermath of the accident.
Police reports: If the police were called to the scene and an incident report was filed, you may need a copy of the report (or at least the incident reference number).
Records of any financial losses: This may include the cost of medical treatment, prescriptions, rehabilitation such as physiotherapy, travel expenses, and any bicycle repairs or replacement, as well as any lost wages due to time out of work for recovery.
What do other cyclists say about Slater and Gordon? - Watch Ian's story.
Watch Ian's video to see how we helped him recover both physically and financially when an unsuspecting driver pulled out causing a collision. Ian was left with life-changing injuries.
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How do I start a cycling accident claim?
Call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online today for a no-obligation conversation about your case with one of our industry-leading cycling accident solicitors
We’ll assess your claim and help you collect all the necessary evidence, working with medical experts and witnesses to support your case
As part of your claim, we will need to access your medical records and arrange an examination with an independent medical expert who specialises in providing legal evidence
Our experts will ensure you have access to the best quality treatment and rehabilitation, such as physiotherapy to maximise the chances of a full recovery and future independence
We’ll work hard to secure the best possible compensation in negotiations. Rarely, a claim may go to court, in which case your solicitor will represent you through proceedings
How long does a cycling accident claim take?
It's impossible to say how long your cycling accident compensation claim will take as it depends on several things, such as the seriousness of your injuries, the length of time any treatment or rehabilitation will take and how long any recovery will take.
In addition, it also depends on those at fault for the accident and whether they accept that they were responsible. However, as we're cycling accident specialists, we'll negotiate your claim to get the best possible outcome and ensure your claim is dealt with as quickly and efficiently as possible.
What happens if the driver was uninsured or fled the scene?
It is still possible to pursue a cycling accident claim if the driver at fault is uninsured or cannot be traced because they fled the scene of the accident.
The Motor Insurer’s Bureau (MIB) is a government-backed organisation set up to help people who have suffered because of an uninsured or untraceable driver, and any claims made to them will consider damage to your property, as well as any injuries sustained. Claims are submitted to MIB in a similar manner to a claim directly against the liable party and can still be handled by a specialist cycling accident solicitor.
Given the complex nature of many bicycle accident claims, it is strongly recommended that you seek legal advice on your own circumstances before starting a claim. Our specialist solicitors have a wealth of experience in handling MIB claims and can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve to support your recovery.
Excellent staff! As well as keeping me well informed at all times on my claim, the communication was first class. Staff should be commended on their work commitments and service to public.
Client testimonial (Personal Injury)
I would like to say a big thank you to you and your team for an outstanding job, and I will be advising everybody to use you. Once again, thank you.
Client testimonial (Personal Injury)
Overall, Slater and Gordon provided a very good service to me. From the first phone call through to the last correspondence they were so helpful and understanding towards me. Always listened to me and acted on my wishes. Would definitely use them again!
Client testimonial (Personal Injury)
Why choose Slater and Gordon’s cycling accident solicitors?
Given the complexities which can arise in cycling claims, choosing lawyers who specialise in this area of law is extremely important. We’re able to offer that dedicated specialism.
We’re highly ranked in independent legal guides
We’ve been shortlisted and won industry awards demonstrating our specialism
We’ve been instrumental in some of the most important and ground-breaking landmark cases
We work with the best available medical experts, case managers and treatment providers in the UK
We offer No Win No Fee funding so there's no financial risk to you
We work closely with a range of dedicated charities throughout England, Scotland and Wales who can offer a full range of practical advice and support
As one of the largest consumer law firms in the UK, we’re able to offer an end-to-end service for all your legal needs and independent financial planners for compensation protection
If you've been injured in a cycling accident, register your claim today and our specialists will be happy to help.
Bicycle accident claims: Hear from some of our past clients
Cycling accidents can have devastating consequences for victims and their loved ones, and having the right support can be crucial. Our team works hard to secure the best possible outcomes for our clients, and we take pride in our holistic approach, prioritising rehabilitation and care throughout every stage to ensure you get the best possible chance at recovery.
To learn more about the work we’ve done to help our clients, read some of their stories below.
We are an award-winning law firm and have a dedicated team of road traffic accident solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We're able to offer affordable expert legal advice and can provide guidance on all aspects of road traffic accident claims. Our Initial Consultation provides tailored advice on your situation giving you clear guidance and options regarding next steps.
Tailored advice
We understand that every claim is different – so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
Speak to one of our road traffic accident solicitors today
Frequently asked questions about cycling accident claims
How much compensation will I get for a bicycle accident claim?
It’s impossible to say how much compensation you’re likely to get for a cycling accident claim as it depends on:
How serious your injuries are, for example, the pain and suffering you’ve had to endure and the effect it’s had on your everyday life
Your financial losses, for example, how much you’ve lost in wages if you’ve been unable to work for a certain period and what additional expenses you’ve had as a result
The pain, suffering and losses you’re likely to have in the future
What we can say at this stage is given our level of specialism in this field we’ll ensure that you get the absolute maximum amount of compensation you deserve. Given our vast experience, we know exactly what compensation you’ll need to maximise recovery and future independence.
Can I still claim bike accident compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes, you can still make a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of your accident. However, failure to wear protective gear such as a helmet could be taken into consideration when determining the amount of compensation you should be awarded, particularly if it is determined that the lack of a helmet contributed to the extent of your injuries.
Can I make a No Win No Fee cycling accident claim?
The cost of instructing a lawyer to represent you can sometimes be a concern, especially as it most often comes at a time when you're unable to work due to your injuries, so already may be suffering from financial hardship.
Can I make a bicycle accident claim on behalf of someone else?
If a loved one has been injured in an accident and is not able to claim injury compensation themselves, it may be possible for you to do so on their behalf. Cases where this may be possible include:
Claiming on behalf of a child (under 18 years old)
Claiming on behalf of someone with diminished mental capacity
Claiming after a fatal accident
If you wish to discuss the possibility of claiming on behalf of someone else, our expert solicitors will be happy to discuss this with you in more detail.
Is there a time limit for making a cycling accident claim?
In general, under UK law you have three years from the date of the accident to make a cycling accident claim. There are certain circumstances in which this time limit may change; for example if you’re claiming on behalf of a child, or someone who lacks mental capacity to do so for themselves.
It’s always best to speak to a specialist road traffic accident solicitor to discuss your personal circumstances in more detail. To get in touch, call us on 0330 041 5869 or reach out online, and we’ll be able to help you start your claim.
Can I claim if I was injured when cycling on the pavement?
Yes, you can still make a claim if you were injured while cycling on the pavement. Like any other type of claim, you will need to be able to prove that the accident (and your injuries as a result) were caused by someone else’s negligence. However, the fact that you were cycling on the pavement could be taken into consideration when determining the amount of compensation you should be awarded.
This could be a pedestrian or a driver (for instance, if they mounted the curb or opened their car door across the pavement without looking, known as ‘car dooring’). It could also be that your accident was caused by poor maintenance, causing an uneven surface or a trip hazard. In this case, your claim would be made against the local council.
What are your rights as a cyclist?
All road users, including cyclists, have the right to use the road and to be safe and respected when they do so. However, when it comes to how a cyclist should use the road – and how a motorist should react when they come across a cyclist – there are some misconceptions about the rights and entitlements of each party.
For example, many drivers may believe that a cyclist does not have the right to cycle in the centre of the road if it blocks them from passing, or if there is a cycle lane either at the side of the road or marked along the pavement or footpath.
This is not true. A cyclist has the right to cycle down the centre of the road, particularly where safety is a concern or visibility is reduced. In fact, the Highway Code encourages cyclists to do so when on quiet roads, in slower moving traffic, and at the approach to a junction.
Cyclists are allowed to filter through traffic, use most bus lanes, or ride two abreast in the road – particularly where one cyclist is a child or young teenager. They also have the right to adequate and safe space on the road, and drivers are required to leave a minimum distance of 1.5m.
How much does it cost to make a cycling accident claim?
We understand that the cost of taking legal action may seem daunting for some, which is why most of the bicycle injury claims that we pursue are done so by way of a conditional fee agreement – also known as No Win No Fee.
Under this agreement, there are no upfront costs to making a claim and if your case is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay a fee to your solicitor. This means there is no financial risk to making a claim, so you’ll never be out of pocket. If your claim is successful, your solicitor will take a small success fee from the total sum of compensation awarded. You may also be required to pay the cost of any insurance premiums taken out.
No Win No Fee arrangements are not the only way to fund your case. To learn more about the available funding options and which might suit you best, speak to a member of our team on 0330 041 5869 or get in touch online to request a call back.
What happens if a road defect or hazard caused the cycling accident?
You can still make a claim for cycle accident compensation if you were injured due to road defect (such as a pothole) or a poorly maintained road (including uneven surfaces, debris, or broken drain covers).
In this case, your claim would be made against the local Highways Authority. Section 41 of the Highways Act 1980 states that the local Highways Authority. has a duty to ensure roads are maintained and are fit for use. This means they are liable for any accident, injury or damage that occurs because of unfit roads.
To claim successfully against the Highways Authority, it will need to be proven that the road was in an dangerous condition (there was a reasonable foresight of harm to users of the highway), the dangerous condition was created by a failure to maintain or repair the highway and that the injury or damage resulted from the failure.
Do I have to go to court to make a cycling accident claim?
No, in most cases it is highly unlikely that you would need to attend a court hearing as part of your cycling accident claim.
Most claims will be settled through negotiations with the other party (or parties) involved. Where disputes around liability or compensation arise, we work hard to resolve the issue quickly and positively. Both sides of the claim must follow the Pre-Action Protocols to attempt to resolve the issue without going to court.
In rare cases, disputes cannot be settled, and a court hearing is necessary to get a judge to rule on the case. In this situation, your solicitor will talk you through what will happen next and will continue to represent you throughout proceedings.
Can I claim if I was partly responsible for my accident?
Yes, you may still be eligible to make a claim, though it could affect the amount of compensation you receive.
This is known as contributory negligence or split liability. During your claim, we will work closely with the other side to settle how much compensation you are owed for your injuries. We will agree how much you should have been awarded if you hadn’t been partially at fault, before then determining the extent to which your actions contributed to the accident as a percentage. This will then be used to calculate how much of the total compensation you should be awarded.
For example, if it was determined that you were 20% responsible for the accident that caused your injuries, the total compensation awarded would be reduced by 20%.
Can I get an interim payment before my injury claim settles?
Yes, you can. Securing interim payments can be a critical part of your recovery, as it can provide the urgent financial resources needed for medical care, rehabilitation, mobility support, or even home adaptations.
Your bicycle accident lawyer will work closely with our in-house rehabilitation coordinator and independent medical experts to determine what treatment and support you need to make the best possible recovery. We can then work to secure interim payments to fund your care before your claim has been settled.
For more information about interim payments or how we can support your long-term care, speaking to our team today on 0330 041 5869 or get in touch online.
Excellent staff! As well as keeping me well informed at all times on my claim, the communication was first class. Staff should be commended on their work commitments and service to public. Client testimonial (Personal Injury)
I would like to say a big thank you to you and your team for an outstanding job, and I will be advising everybody to use you. Once again, thank you. Client testimonial (Personal Injury)
Overall, Slater and Gordon provided a very good service to me. From the first phone call through to the last correspondence they were so helpful and understanding towards me. Always listened to me and acted on my wishes. Would definitely use them again! Client testimonial (Personal Injury)