Cyclists are vulnerable, and often face the risk of injury due to other road users’ actions. When you find yourself involved in a cycling accident, it can profoundly affect your physical and emotional wellbeing, as well as your capacity to work and support your loved ones. This is why it is important to seek appropriate compensation - so you can recover your lost income and focus on fully recovering your physical and emotional health.

Most people who contact us want to know how much compensation they could get for their accident, which is understandable. However, each case is unique and it’s impossible to estimate how much compensation you could be owed without knowing all the details first. The final amount depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, their impact on your daily life and any financial losses you've experienced. In this guide, our expert team outlines how cycling accident compensation is determined and the various elements that influence the amount you may receive.​

How do I know if I’m eligible to claim compensation as a cyclist involved in an accident?

All road users, including drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, are legally obligated to act responsibly and avoid causing harm to others. This responsibility is known as a "duty of care". For example, drivers must adhere to speed limits, obey traffic signals and remain alert to their surroundings to fulfil their duty of care. If another road user failed to uphold this duty and their negligence led to an accident that caused you injury, they may be considered at fault.​ This could entitle you to claim compensation for your injuries.

How is cycling accident compensation calculated?

Compensation for a cycling accident is made up of two main components:​

• General damages: these address the physical pain, emotional distress and overall effect on your quality of life.​
• Special damages: these cover financial expenses related to the accident, such as medical treatments, rehabilitation and lost earnings.​

When a claim is successful, the awarded amount considers the severity of your injuries, the duration of your recovery, and any lasting physical or mental health issues. Injuries leading to permanent disability, chronic pain or the need for ongoing care often result in higher compensation payouts.

Common cycling injuries we encounter at Switalskis

Our personal injury solicitors frequently assist cyclists who have suffered various injuries due to accidents on their bikes. We also support families dealing with the aftermath of fatal accidents involving loved ones. Our experience has shown that certain injuries are particularly common among cyclists:​

• Head injuries: even with helmets, cyclists can sustain head injuries, from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries. Prompt medical attention is crucial after any head impact.​
• Fractures: collisions or falls often result in broken bones, especially in the arms, wrists, collarbones, and legs.
• Spinal and neck injuries: these can range from minor strains to serious conditions like fractured vertebrae, potentially leading to long-term complications.
• Soft tissue injuries: cuts, bruises and lacerations are common, particularly in accidents involving road surfaces. These can lead to significant blood loss or infection if not properly treated.​
• Wrist injury: falls can lead to wrist fractures or other injuries to the hand and fingers.

Even minor injuries like cuts and bruises can entitle you to compensation if you are hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault. While more serious injuries typically result in more compensation, it’s important to speak to a solicitor to make sure all aspects of your injury are taken into account.

What is the average amount of compensation for a cycling accident claim?

For personal injury claims of all kinds, the Judicial College Guidelines offer a framework for estimating payouts based on previous cases. However, the final amount you receive will consider more than just the injury itself. Factors like long-term care needs, lost earnings and rehabilitation costs will significantly influence your compensation. Two cyclists with similar injuries might receive different settlements depending on their ability to return to work, loss of independence, and any medical support they require. 

At Switalskis, we prefer to take the time to fully understand the impact your accident has had on your physical and emotional wellbeing before estimating how much compensation you could be owed. Rather than relying on average amounts, our team will focus on making sure you receive the full amount of compensation you deserve for your injuries and financial losses.

What evidence do you need for a bicycle accident claim?

A successful claim starts with solid evidence. There are several things you can do in the period immediately after you accident that will support your case, such as:

• Accident reports: if the police attended the scene, you should request a copy of their report.
• Photographic evidence: capture images of the accident scene, damage to your bicycle, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
• Video footage: dashcam or CCTV recordings can provide important insights into how the accident occurred.
• Witness statements: collect contact details from anyone who saw the accident - their accounts can be invaluable.
• Medical records: even if the emergency services didn’t attend the scene, you should still seek medical attention promptly. Hospital reports and treatment plans will document your injuries and their impact.
• Expense receipts: keep records of travel costs, medical bills and other accident-related expenses.
• Insurance correspondence: any communications with the other party’s insurance company will be relevant, but you should avoid contacting them without your solicitor’s support.
• Proof of lost earnings: payslips, tax returns or other financial documents can demonstrate how the accident has affected your income.

It’s not necessary to collect all of this evidence by yourself. When we take on your case, we will help you compile the evidence into a compelling case. 

How Switalskis can help

Every cycling accident claim is different, and at Switalskis, we're here to guide you through the process - from the day you get in touch to the moment you receive the compensation you deserve.

We operate on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, meaning there's no financial risk in starting a claim. You won't need to worry about upfront legal costs, and if your claim isn't successful, you won't owe us anything.​ We will make sure that all aspects of your injuries, financial losses and medical reports are considered, so you receive every penny you're entitled to.​

If you've been injured in a cycling accident that wasn't your fault, don't wait. Start your compensation claim today by calling Switalskis on 0800 138 0458 or using our online contact form to arrange a free consultation