Cycling Accident Claims
Cycling offers freedom, fitness, and enjoyment, but it can also expose cyclists to risk of injury.
Accidents can occur whether commuting, riding for fun, or training for an event and in the worst examples leave you catastrophically injured with your world turned upside down.
At Bennett Griffin, we specialise in cycling accident claims and are independently recognised for this in the Legal 500. We offer expert guidance and support to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Our experienced team of cycling injury lawyers in West Sussex is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your claim.
Contact our Personal Injury team today to see how we can assist you in securing justice and recovering from your injuries.
What Is A Cycling Accident Claim?
A cycling accident claim seeks compensation for injuries and losses sustained due to another party’s negligence.
This will usually include accidents involving vehicles but could also involve pedestrians or road hazards such as potholes.
Compensation can cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, and damage to your bicycle and gear.
At Bennett Griffin, our bicycle injury lawyers are experienced in handling these claims, ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
We provide expert guidance throughout the legal process, helping you gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
What To Do Immediately After A Cycling Accident
You’ll likely be in shock, and the adrenaline will rush through your veins.
The first thing to remember is to get somewhere safe, as you might still be in danger.
It sounds obvious, but if you need medical help, phone an ambulance and get a hospital check-up if your helmet is damaged.
The advantage of this is that it will act as a permanent record of the accident, which could be the difference between recovering the cost of a replacement bike or not.
Then, check that your bike is roadworthy.
If the driver seems reasonable, you can ask for their details, but we have all seen videos of angry drivers, so don’t put yourself in further danger. You can always photograph their registration plate to search for their insurance details. Then, write a description of them on your phone.
If anyone witnessed the accident, get them to write their details in your phone. Independent witnesses will often decide a case in your favour, and you might lose them forever if you don’t act.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to report any accident to the police.
Cycling Injury Claims: Key Legal Rights & Issues
Road users owe others a duty to take care when using the roads.
The changes to the Highway Code in 2022 added further protections for cyclists.
There is now a hierarchy of road users, with those most likely to be injured in a collision at the top.
It doesn’t remove the need for everyone to behave responsibly. But it does mean that road users who can cause the greatest harm bear the biggest responsibility to take care.
The onus is on you as the injured party to prove everything; this is where a good solicitor comes into their own.
Your witness evidence will be crucial in establishing whose fault the crash was.
If the circumstances surrounding the collision are complicated, then evidence can be obtained from an accident reconstruction expert.If the police turn up, their report might contain good evidence, especially if they’ve closed the road.
Why Choose Bennett Griffin?
Choosing Bennett Griffin means partnering with a team of dedicated cycling injury lawyers who understand cyclists’ unique challenges.
Our expertise in cycling accident claims ensures personalised support and expert guidance throughout the legal process.
We are committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case, providing clear communication and compassionate service every step of the way.
Our Personal Injury department has been ranked in the top bands of the Chambers UK 2025 Legal Guide and newly recognised in The Legal 500 2024. These respected accolades highlight our standing as a leading firm in the field, reflecting the quality and commitment of our team.
With a proven track record in achieving successful claims, Bennett Griffin is your trusted ally in seeking justice and compensation for cycling injuries.
Contact Our Personal Injury Team
If you or a loved one have been involved in a cycling accident and believe another party was at fault, our Personal Injury Team at Bennett Griffin is here to offer you the dedicated support and legal expertise you need.
Specialising in cycling injury claims, our West Sussex solicitors are committed to guiding you through every step of the claims process, ensuring you understand your rights and options while striving for the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Worthing office on 01903 229999 or our Chichester office on 01243 256370.
Alternatively, email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk.
At Bennett Griffin, we’re more than just your solicitors; we’re your allies in seeking justice for cycling injuries.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your cycling accident claim.
Cycling Accident Claims: FAQs
Is there a time limit for making a cycling accident claim?
Yes, there is typically a three-year limit from the accident date to file a claim. However, exceptions can apply, so it’s best to consult our cycle accident solicitors as soon as possible.
What if the driver was uninsured?
If the driver involved in your cycling accident was uninsured, you can still pursue compensation through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). The MIB compensates victims of accidents caused by uninsured or untraceable drivers. Our experienced bicycle injury lawyers at Bennett Griffin will guide you through the MIB claim process, ensuring all necessary documentation is submitted and helping you secure the compensation you deserve.
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
There is no legal obligation for cyclists to wear helmets like for motorcyclists (read more in our blog: Cycle Helmets and Personal Injury Law: What You Need to Know). However, if you aren’t wearing one, the insurers will try to argue that your damages should be deducted in light of that decision. In the legal world, this is called contributory negligence. These arguments are usually based on the assumption that the Highway Code basically says it’s a good idea. But, the Highway Code also says that pedestrians should wear fluorescent clothing such as sashes, gilets, and armbands at night. Courts are, therefore, very reticent about deducting damages for not wearing a helmet.
What if I didn’t have lights on my bike?
If you didn’t have lights on your bike during the accident, it could affect your claim, especially if it occurred at night. Courts might reduce your compensation due to contributory negligence, arguing that you shared some responsibility for the accident. However, you can still make a claim. Our experienced cycling injury lawyers at Bennett Griffin will help you navigate these complexities and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
What if a pothole caused my cycling injury?
If you come off because of a pothole, take a picture with something in it, like a multi-tool, to give an idea of the depth.
Then, take a photo of the general area so you can locate where it happened.
If you’re on a new route, you may not remember where you crashed, and you’ll need this info later.
Establishing fault is hard when it comes to crashes caused by potholes.
You need to show that the defect was sufficiently serious and that the highway authority responsible for the road’s upkeep did not follow its own policies and procedures in repairing it.What type of insurance do you recommend for cyclists?
We would always recommend that some sort of insurance is useful, especially if it covers your bike and accessories away from your house. That’s because if you’re partially at fault, you might only be able to recover a percentage of the cost of the damaged items. In addition, you’ll probably have to wait until the end of your case to recover that outlay, and you’ll only be able to claim the current value of your bike, not a shiny new replacement.
What happens if the accident is my fault?
It’s rare that a cyclist is totally at fault for an accident, but if you hit a pedestrian, you could be faced with a claim. Remember, liability can be split between two parties regarding fault, which is often the case with pedestrians. If you think you were in any way to blame, don’t say anything rash at the time, and when you get home, write down what happened and sign it. If you have insurance, report it to them immediately. If you don’t and are hit with a claim, don’t bury your head in the sand; contact a solicitor as soon as possible.
-
Your Bennett Griffin Team