Cycling, as a mode of transport and a leisure activity, unfortunately, leaves the rider particularly vulnerable on the road. This is due to the lack of protection and visibility that a bicycle offers its rider on the road. A road traffic accident involving a cyclist can lead to serious injury for the rider, with potentially life-changing effects or even fatality. Given these circumstances, it is essential for everyone - seasoned cyclists and novices alike - to understand the steps they should take following a cycling accident. With this knowledge, you can not only remain safe as a road user but also understand how to make recovery easier after an accident, and hold the responsible party to account.
In the following guide, Ramsdens Solicitors explains what you should do if you are knocked off your bike, including how to make sure you are safe, and what your legal rights and options are to claim compensation for repairs to your bike and equipment, or to make a comfortable recovery.
Immediate steps after your cycling accident
In the immediate aftermath of a cycling accident, it is likely that you will feel disoriented. However, try to remember that your first priority should be your safety. If you find yourself in traffic or another potentially dangerous situation, move to a safe place as soon as you are able. Once in a safe location, conduct a brief self-assessment of your physical condition. Are you able to move? Are you bleeding? Are you experiencing sharp pains? If your injuries are serious, dial emergency services immediately for medical assistance.
Seeking medical attention
One of the most critical steps after a cycling accident is to seek a comprehensive check from a medical professional. It is easy to underestimate the severity of your condition immediately after an accident due to the adrenaline rush you will experience. Certain injuries, especially those related to head trauma or internal damage, may not be immediately identifiable or can present as minor injuries at first. If you do not get the right help, this can lead to life-altering consequences days, weeks or even years down the line, so you should not assume you are fine. It is essential that you consult a healthcare professional for a thorough check-up following an accident.
Documenting the incident
Depending on the severity and circumstances of the accident, it may be necessary to involve the police. Reporting the accident officially helps to establish a documented record of the incident. This official report can be invaluable when pursuing a personal injury claim later. Do not shy away from reporting the accident, no matter how insignificant the damage or injury may seem in the moment.
In personal injury cases, evidence can make or break the claim. If you are in a condition to do so and it is safe, take detailed photographs of the scene, including:
- Your bicycle
- The vehicle involved (if any)
- Visible injuries
- Road conditions
- Any other pertinent details
Gather contact information from any eyewitnesses present. Additionally, as soon as you can, jot down the specifics of the incident - the date, time, location, and the chain of events as you remember them. If you can speak to the road users who you believe were responsible for your accident, exchange insurance and contact details with them. Do not admit any liability - you may be in a state of shock or confusion from the incident and any erroneous admission may hinder your ability to make a claim later down the line. You should also make a note of the vehicle registration number of any other drivers involved.
Documenting medical records
When you visit a healthcare provider, ensure that all medical findings related to the accident are adequately recorded. These records should include your initial medical examination following the accident, any diagnoses made, treatments advised, medication prescribed, and the costs associated with all these procedures. This paperwork provides a clear medical trail linking the accident to your injuries, which is often vital when making a personal injury claim.
Taking legal action
If the accident was not your fault, you may be able to take legal action to claim compensation. Even if you are unsure of whether you may be entitled to compensation, you should seek free legal advice from Ramsdens Solicitors as soon as you are safe. Our team can discuss your circumstances over the phone, advise you of your eligibility to claim, and start the process of building your case if you decide to move ahead.
Compensation can help you to recover the costs of repairing or replacing your damaged bicycle or equipment, any medical care or support you have had to pay for, and lost earnings during your recovery. Additionally, general damages account for your physical and mental suffering, and any long-term impact your injury may have on your life. Your solicitor will help you to understand the potential value of the compensation you could receive during an initial consultation.
Reporting the accident
Ensure to report the accident to your insurance company at your earliest convenience. Be as factual and detailed in your report as possible. If you believe poor road conditions contributed to the accident, inform your local council as well. However, be cautious when discussing the accident with insurance adjusters. They may limit the insurer's financial liability, and your words might be used to this effect. If the road conditions were the cause of the accident, you should obtain good quality photographs of the defect demonstrating the dimensions of any highway defect, before informing the local highway authority.
Consulting with a solicitor
It is highly advisable to consult with a solicitor who specialises in personal injury cases following a cycling accident. At Ramsdens Solicitors, we have a dedicated team of professionals who can provide advice tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring your rights are safeguarded. We will ensure you are on the path to receiving the compensation you are entitled to.
Making a cycling accidents compensation claim
The personal injury claims process in the UK can be complex. It often involves negotiations with insurance companies, comprehensive collection and preservation of evidence, and in some cases, court proceedings. Having an experienced solicitor by your side can significantly improve your experience of the process and your likelihood of receiving the best possible outcome. We will provide expert assistance, guiding you through the entire process and increasing your chances of a successful claim.
When you first talk to us, we will aim to understand your situation and explain your options. Should you decide to make a compensation claim, we will help you to gather as much evidence as possible to build a strong case. We will take the bulk of the legal responsibility from your shoulders so you can focus on your recovery.
We will also facilitate all communications with the other parties involved, with the goal of making the process as stress-free for you as possible. Our solicitors stand ready to represent you in court if any disputes arise, but we always try to resolve claims with an out-of-court settlement. This is how the majority of personal injury claims conclude and means you can receive your compensation as quickly as possible.
Making a cycling accident compensation claim with Ramsdens makes a daunting process straightforward, and with our no win, no fee agreement, there is no financial risk to you.
If you have been involved in a cycling accident, call the cycling accident experts at Ramsdens Solicitors today on 01484 821 500 for free advice, or fill out our online contact form to arrange a time for us to call you back.