Common Types of Cycling Injuries and How to Claim Compensation for a Cycling Injury
Cycling is a popular and eco-friendly way to travel, stay fit, and enjoy the outdoors. However, cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, especially in busy urban areas. Without the protection offered by a vehicle, cyclists can suffer serious injuries when accidents occur. Understanding the common types of cycling injuries and knowing when to make cycling accident claims is crucial if you’ve been hurt through no fault of your own.
In this article, our cycling injury lawyers explain the typical injuries cyclists face, when you may be entitled to compensation, and how our cycle accident solicitors can support you with your claim.
What are the Most Common Cycling Injuries?
Every cycling accident is different, but some injuries are more frequently reported due to the nature of cycling and the types of collisions involved.
Head and Brain Injuries
Head injuries are among the most serious consequences of a cycling accident. They range from mild concussions to life-altering traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Helmets can reduce the risk, but they do not eliminate it.
Symptoms might include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion or disorientation
- Persistent headaches
- Memory loss
These injuries often lead to long-term consequences, affecting work, mobility, and mental wellbeing, all of which may be considered in a cycling injury claim.
Cycling Helmets and the Law
Presently in the UK, wearing a helmet whilst cycling is not a legal requirement. However, it is recommended to do so by the Highway Code and Transport for London.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Broken bones are common in cycling accidents, particularly to the:
- Arms and wrists (often fractured when trying to break a fall)
- Collarbone and shoulders (from impact)
- Legs, especially if the cyclist is hit by a vehicle
In severe cases, surgery may be required, with extended recovery periods. These injuries can significantly disrupt daily life and employment, which is a key factor in calculating cycle accident claims.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Bruising
- Muscle strains
- Torn ligaments
Although not always visible or immediately apparent, soft tissue injuries can cause lasting pain and mobility issues. If caused by another party’s negligence, they may form the basis of a valid cycling accident claim.
Spinal Injuries
A serious cycling collision can cause damage to the spinal cord or vertebrae, resulting in:
- Chronic pain
- Reduced mobility
- In extreme cases, partial or full paralysis
These life-changing injuries often require extensive medical treatment and ongoing care. In such cases, cycling accident solicitors can help secure substantial compensation.
Facial and Dental Injuries
Cyclists may suffer:
- Broken teeth
- Facial fractures
- Eye damage
- Scarring
Even if the injuries are not life-threatening, they can have a significant psychological and financial impact, from cosmetic surgery to dental repairs.
Common Causes of Cycling Accidents
Establishing the cause of an accident is essential when pursuing cycling injury claims. Common causes include:
- Driver negligence: such as failing to give way, opening car doors in a cyclist’s path, or dangerous overtaking, all of which are breaches of The Highway Code.
- Poor road conditions: including potholes, worn road markings, or defective traffic signals.
- Defective cycling equipment: brake failure or other mechanical faults.
- Other road users: including pedestrians or other cyclists acting negligently.
If another party can be shown to have caused or contributed to your accident, you may be eligible for compensation.
Highway Code Changes That Affect Cyclists
The Highway Code was the subject of a series of major changes in early 2022 but worryingly, research by various cycling charities suggests that millions of road users are unaware of their impact. Find out more about the new Highway Code changes and how these changes affect cyclists.
Do I Have a Valid Cycling Accident Claim?
To make a successful claim, you must demonstrate that:
- Someone owed you a duty of care – For example, another road user or a local council that are responsible for road maintenance.
- That the duty was breached – A breach may be through negligence (such as a poorly maintained road) or unsafe behaviour (such as a driver passing too close).
- You suffered injury and loss as a direct result of the incident.
Our experienced cycle accident solicitors can assess your case and gather the evidence needed, including witness statements, medical records, and CCTV or dashcam footage.
I’ve Had a Cycling Accident. What Can I Claim Compensation For?
Every case is different, but a cycling injury lawyer usually helps claimants recover damages for:
- Medical expenses
- Loss of earnings
- Rehabilitation and physiotherapy
- Travel costs
- Damage to your bike and equipment
- Pain, suffering and loss of amenity
- Psychological trauma
Claims can be settled out of court or may proceed to litigation, depending on the complexity and whether liability is admitted.
How Long Do I Have to Make a Cycling Injury Claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to start a cycling accident claim in England and Wales. Exceptions may apply, such as for children or those lacking mental capacity.
If you’re unsure whether you’re within time, speak to a cycling injury lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you act, the easier it is to gather vital evidence.
Why Use a Specialist Cycling Injury Lawyer?
Cycling accident claims can be complex, particularly when liability is disputed or injuries are severe. A solicitor experienced in handling cycle accident claims can:
- Accurately assess the value of your claim
- Handle negotiations with insurers
- Secure interim payments for urgent needs
- Represent you in court if necessary
- Provide expert support throughout
Our cycle accident solicitors are here to help you recover the compensation you deserve with compassion, clarity, and a commitment to justice.
Cycling Injury Claims FAQs
If you’re involved in a cycling accident, try to take the following steps (if you’re able):
1. Move to a safe place and call 999 if anyone is injured.
2. Exchange details with the other party and note vehicle registration numbers.
3. Take photos of the scene, your bike, any visible injuries, and road conditions.
4. Ask witnesses for their contact details.
5. Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor.
6. Keep receipts for any expenses related to the accident.
This evidence can be vital if you later pursue a cycling accident claim.
Yes. If the driver fled the scene or was uninsured, you may still be able to make a claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). The MIB compensates victims of uninsured or untraced drivers. Our cycling injury lawyers can help you navigate this process and ensure your claim is submitted correctly.
Yes, you can include psychological injuries in your claim, such as:
1. Anxiety or panic attacks
2. PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
3. Loss of confidence while cycling
These are considered part of your general damages and can be supported by a report from a medical or psychological expert.
You may still be able to claim compensation even if you were partly at fault, this is known as contributory negligence. For example, if you weren’t wearing a helmet or didn’t use bike lights, the compensation may be reduced to reflect your share of responsibility. Our cycle accident solicitors can advise on how this may affect your case.
The timeline varies depending on factors like:
1. Severity of the injury
2. Whether the other party admits fault
3. Availability of medical evidence
Straightforward claims may settle in a few months, while more complex cases can take a year or more. We’ll keep you updated throughout and work to resolve your claim as efficiently as possible.
No Win, No Fee Cycle Accident Claims
We believe everyone should have access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we offer No Win, No Fee arrangements on all cycling accident claims. If your case isn’t successful, you won’t pay our legal fees.
Get in Touch with Our Cycling Injury Lawyers Today
If you have been hurt in a cycling accident that wasn’t your fault then we are here to help. Our friendly cycling injury lawyers will talk you through your rights and guide you as you claim the compensation you deserve.
Contact our personal injury lawyer, Bradley Wright at Bradley.Wright@edslaw.co.uk or call us on 020 8514 9000.
Don’t delay. Speak to our expert cycle accident solicitors today and take the first step towards recovery and justice.