By Megan Gibbs

There are over 100 deaths per year due to cycling accidents in the UK. In this article, we will explain what to do if you experience such an accident on the road. Almost everyone with a car has felt the road rage swell up within because of a bad cyclist. Likewise, most cyclists have thought up some choice words for dodgy drivers. Accidents between these two vehicles are far more common than the average person might think. 

According to the UK Government, over ten thousand cycling accidents are reported yearly in the UK. Cycling accident solicitors will likely tell you that you should prepare for how to act if you ever experience such an incident yourself. If you are based in the US, similar advice applies. A bicycle accident lawyer, such as those at The Keating Firm Ltd should be contacted to gain the best legal advice after the incident. In this article, we will explore the exact steps you should take.

What to Do at the Site of the Accident

Ensure Everyone is Safe After a Cycling Accident

Despite any initial desire to argue or file complaints, the first step after an accident is ensuring everybody involved is safe. Call medical services immediately, even if everyone seems okay. Not all serious injuries are visible to the untrained eye. 

Always prioritise your own safety before helping others, and never endanger yourself to provide aid. If you have to evacuate your car, leave all your belongings inside. If you have been knocked off a bicycle, get yourself out of the road before your bike. 

Only consider moving bicycles out of the road or securing valuables from cars when everyone is out of harms way.

Exchange Details Civilly After an Accident

Even if the accident was not your fault, do not show hostility to anybody else involved. Doing so may even damage your compensation claim. Once safety is assured and emergency services have been contacted, approach the other party calmly and politely. 

Exchange insurance details and any other relevant information. Note the number plates of any cars involved in the accident. Do not withhold anything, even if you believe you are in the wrong. 

Taking photos of the accident site is a good method of obtaining evidence to be used if necessary. Ask any witnesses if they would be willing to support your story. The more evidence you can collect, the higher your chances of receiving compensation once you file your claim with a reputable cycling accident or car crash lawyer.

Reporting a Cycling Accident and Filing a Claim

It is paramount that you report any cycling accident you experience, especially if you wish to file a compensation claim. If an accident has not been reported and substantial evidence is lacking, your claim will not succeed. If you need help to file your claim, you can use the expertise of a professional process server to do the work for you. Do not wait to report the accident but do so as early as possible.

Do not try to make your cycling accident claim without professional legal guidance. Contact a cycling accident solicitor who will present the best case for your situation. Always ask your solicitor’s advice before taking action.

Deal Only with Your Own Insurer After a Cycling Accident

After a cycling accident, never deal directly with the other party’s insurer. Even if you receive a compensation offer that satisfies you, do not respond yourself. Always communicate via your own insurance company.

Whilst cycling insurance is far less common than mandatory motor vehicle insurance, there are still services that offer accident cover cycling accidents. Bikmo is a trusted UK insurance company specialising in bikes, for example. Otherwise, some household insurance policies even include bicycle accident cover.

What Compensation Can You Expect After a Cycling Accident?

If you have been involved in a cycling accident that was not your fault, you could receive compensation several forms. Some examples include:

• Repairment/Replacement of Damaged Vehicle: If your bicycle or motor vehicle suffered damage in the accident, your compensation could cover repair or replacement costs. 
• Private Medical Treatment: If you received an injury in the accident requiring expensive medical treatment, your compensation could cover hospital bills. 
• Travel Expenses: If you cannot travel to or from work or the hospital after the accident, your compensation could cover travel costs.
• Salary/Wage Cover: If you have to miss a period of work after the accident, your compensation could cover lost income. 

What If I Witness a Cycling Accident?

If you witness a cycling accident, you should always try to help those involved if you can do so without endangering yourself. Call emergency services and reassure anyone injured that help is on the way. Offer to act as a legal witness so matters can be resolved easily for all parties involved.

There is also the option of reporting what you saw to authorities later if you are in a rush or prefer to remain anonymous.

Please be advised that this article is for general information purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for advice from a trained legal professional. Be sure to consult a lawyer/solicitor if you’re seeking advice on the law. We are not liable for risks or issues associated with using or acting upon the information on this site.