Compensation for Cyclists Colliding with Vehicles

Cyclist Hit by a Car Compensation

For getting your life back on track

For a cyclist injured in a collision, the idea of taking legal action can feel overwhelming. Accidents involving cars, vans and other vehicles can shake your confidence in your cycling and, in the most serious cases, result in serious injuries. However, a cyclist hit by another vehicle will very often be entitled to claim compensation, and this can make all the difference to your recovery.

At Switalskis, we've worked with many cyclists who've experienced cycling accidents caused by other road users, and helped them to claim compensation from the drivers of the vehicles involved. Car drivers, motorcyclists and others have a responsibility to look out for cyclists, and if they fail to do so, you may be entitled to make a claim. If you are involved in a road traffic accident because of someone else's negligence, despite your best efforts to stay safe, seeking compensation is a way to hold them accountable for their mistakes.

We know that injured cyclists can face a long recovery time, especially if they have suffered serious injuries. The Switalskis team will put your needs first, and do as much of the legal work as possible to bring your claim to a successful resolution. That way, you'll have more time to focus on your recovery and regain the confidence to get back on your bike - or adjust to your new circumstances with the financial support you need.

Most cycling accident compensation claims can be handled on a no win, no fee basis. This means you won’t need to pay anything upfront, and you won’t pay our legal fees if your claim is unsuccessful. We’ll explain how this works before you decide whether to move forward.

Call Switalskis today to learn more about making a cycling accident compensation claim, or to start the process, on 0800 138 0458 . Alternatively, you can contact our specialist solicitors through our website.

To get started, give us a call today on 0800 1380 458, or get in touch with us through our website to find out more about how we can help.

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How Switalskis can help

As vulnerable road users, cyclists hit by vehicles can face serious injuries, some of which can leave lasting or even permanent side effects. The knowledgeable personal injury solicitors at Switalskis have worked with many people who have experienced this first hand, and we know what it takes to maximise your recovery. When you call us, we'll hold an initial consultation where we'll talk about the specifics of your cycling accident and the resulting injuries. From there, we'll evaluate whether we think you're owed compensation and, if you decide to move ahead, we'll start the process for you.

This personal investment in our clients is a key part of our approach, and we'll be available throughout your claim to answer any questions or explain your options. We pride ourselves on our commitment to clarity and will break down any confusing legal matters into terms you can understand. By taking the time to fully understand what you need, we can tailor our services to you and secure the maximum amount of compensation that you're entitled to.

Personal injury compensation can cover all of the pain, suffering and financial losses associated with a collision on the road, including expenses for any private medical treatment you need and the cost of repairing or replacing your bike. Switalskis will make sure you have everything you need in the aftermath of an accident and that you don't have to suffer due to someone else's mistakes.

What Switalskis offers during your claim

Our road traffic accident compensation specialists

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Mark HollinghurstManaging Director of Serious Injury
Image of John McQuater
John McQuaterTechnical Director and Solicitor Advocate
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Sam McFadyen Senior Associate Solicitor and Brain Injury team lead
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Caroline KempsterSenior Associate and Chartered Legal Executive
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Ian LatimerSenior Associate Solicitor
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Read what our clients had to say about the help they received from Switalskis

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What cycling collision injuries can you claim compensation for?

Cyclists can suffer a wide range of injuries when they’re hit by a car or another motor vehicle. Some people recover quickly, while others face long-term pain, treatment, time off work or permanent changes to their life.

You may be able to claim injury compensation for:

  • Head injuries
  • Brain injuries
  • Spinal injuries
  • Broken bones
  • Wrist, hand, arm and shoulder injuries
  • Hip, knee and leg injuries
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Cuts, bruising and lacerations
  • Road rash and scarring
  • Crush injuries
  • Psychological trauma, including anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Fatal injuries, where a family member has died because of a cycling collision

If you were a cyclist hit by a car, and this led to injury, you may be able to bring a claim against the person driving the vehicle. Speak to Switalskis for information on taking the next steps in the claims process.

Claiming compensation for a bike collision with a motor vehicle when there is a question over fault

To claim compensation, you’ll usually need to show that another road user owed you a duty of care, failed in that duty, and caused your injuries.

In some cycling accident claims, the driver may deny responsibility or argue contributory negligence. This means they may say you were partly responsible for the accident.

If contributory negligence is accepted, it doesn’t always mean you can’t claim compensation. Instead, your compensation may be reduced to reflect your share of responsibility. For example, if you were found to be 25% responsible for the accident, you would receive 75% of the compensation awarded.

You should still speak to Switalskis if you’re unsure who was at fault. Our legal team can review the evidence, explain your position clearly and work to protect your right to compensation.

What evidence will support a cyclist hit by car claim?

Strong evidence can make a big difference to your claim. It helps to create an official record of what happened, prove who was responsible and show the effect the accident has had on your life. Where possible, you should aim to collect:

  • The driver’s name, contact details and insurance details
  • The vehicle registration number
  • Police reports or an incident reference number
  • A medical record of your injuries - you should seek medical attention in the aftermath of your accident to create an accurate record
  • Photographs of the accident scene
  • Photographs of your injuries, throughout the healing process
  • Photos of damage to your bike, helmet, clothing or equipment
  • Helmet camera, dashcam or CCTV footage if available
  • Witness names and contact details, so your solicitor can contact them for a statement.
  • Receipts for any repairs, replacement equipment, travel or medical costs
  • Records of lost earnings

It isn’t always possible to collect all this evidence yourself, especially if you were seriously injured in the accident. At Switalskis, we’ll work with the evidence you have and seek further information to support your case. We’ll also deal with the driver’s insurer on your behalf, so you can focus on recovering your health.

What is the bicycle accident claim process?

The legal process for accidents involving cyclists and other vehicles can feel complex, especially if you’re still recovering from your injuries. At Switalskis, we’ll make the claims process as clear as possible and handle the legal work on your behalf.

Every cycling accident claim is different, but most follow these key steps:

Step 1: Initial consultation

Your first step should be to contact us for a free initial consultation . We’ll listen to what happened, how the collision occurred and what injuries you experienced.

We’ll ask about details such as where the accident happened, whether the driver stopped, whether the police were involved and whether you have the driver’s insurance details. We’ll also explain your rights and advise whether we think you can make a successful claim.

Step 2: Establishing your claim

If you move forward, we’ll gather evidence to prove your claim. This can include medical records, photos, witness statements, police reports, CCTV, dashcam footage, helmet camera footage and details of damage to your bike or cycling equipment.

Step 3: Notifying the defendant

After gathering all necessary evidence, we'll draft a letter of claim . We'll send this to the person we believe is responsible for your accident and their insurance company. It sets out your intention to claim and how much compensation you're seeking, along with an outline of the evidence that supports your version of events.

Step 4: Negotiation

If the insurer accepts responsibility, we’ll negotiate the compensation you’re entitled to. This can cover your injuries, treatment costs, lost earnings, rehabilitation and damage to your bike or cycling equipment. If not, we’ll take the matter to court.

Step 5: Court proceedings (where necessary)

Most cycling accident claims settle without going to court. If the insurer denies responsibility, argues contributory negligence or refuses a fair settlement, we’ll guide you through court proceedings and represent you throughout.

Step 6: Settlement and compensation

When your claim is successful, you’ll receive your compensation. If you need urgent support before then, we may be able to request an interim payment to help with treatment, rehabilitation or other immediate needs.

The timeline for each case will be unique and some of the specifics will vary, but Switalskis will make it a priority to keep you informed throughout the process so you always know what's going on. You can feel confident that we'll be with you every step of the way to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Is there a time limit for making a cycling collision compensation claim?

In most personal injury claims, you have three years from the date of the accident to start court proceedings. If you miss this time limit, you may lose your right to claim compensation.

There are some exceptions:

  • Children: if the injured cyclist was under 18, the three-year time limit doesn’t start until their 18th birthday. This means they usually have until their 21st birthday to start a claim.
  • Mental capacity: if the injured person lacks the mental capacity to make their own decisions, either from the accident or otherwise, there may be no time limit unless they regain capacity.
  • Fatal accident claims: if you’re claiming after a loved one has died, the time limit is usually three years from the date of death or the date you learned that the death was linked to the accident.

Even though the time limits give you years in which to make a claim, you should speak to a solicitor as soon as possible. The more time that passes after an accident, the harder it becomes to prove conditions on the day. Witness memories may fade, CCTV footage be deleted and physical evidence lost. Early legal advice will protect your position and give your claim the strongest possible start.

How much compensation can you get for cycling accidents?

Compensation amounts are different in every single case, because they depend on the injuries and the financial losses experienced due to the accident. However, while each case is unique, there are general guidelines that can provide insight into the potential compensation for cyclists involved in collisions with cars or other vehicles. Compensation awards are typically broken down into two categories:

  • General damages: this part of the compensation covers the pain, suffering, and loss of amenity resulting from the injury. Compensation is calculated based on the Judicial College Guidelines, which set minimum and maximum amounts for particular types of injuries. A minor wrist injury will usually result in less compensation than an elbow injury, for example, while a cyclist knocked off their bike who experiences head trauma or crush injuries could be awarded a significantly higher sum.
  • Special damages: this aspect of the award compensates for financial losses related to your accident. This can include:
  • Medical expenses: costs for immediate and long-term medical care, including physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
  • Loss of earnings: lost income if you are unable to work during your recovery. If the injuries permanently affect your ability to work, the compensation could include projected future earnings.
  • Damage to property: Replacement or repair of your bicycle, helmet, clothing, and other damaged items.
  • Travel costs: Expenses incurred for hospital visits or medical appointments.
  • Care and assistance: Costs for professional care or compensation for family members who provide support during recovery.

Our cycling accidents solicitors will always take the time to understand the specific circumstances of your accident to make sure we calculate your compensation accurately. We'll always strive to secure the maximum compensation for you, to protect your physical and financial health following a collision with a motor vehicle.

Read our blog ‘How much compensation can you get for a bike accident?’ for more information.

To get started, call our specialist accident at work claims lawyers today on 0800 1380 458, or get in touch with us through our website to find out more about how we can help.

What you need to know

Legal Resources

Claiming on behalf of someone who has died

In some cases, you can make a compensation claim on behalf of a loved one who died from or injuries that were caused by an accident. Even with legal and emotional support from Switalskis, these situations can be difficult. Our experts have put together this bereavement guide to help you cope during your period of grief.

Switching to Switalskis from your current solicitor

If you’ve started the process of making a personal injury claim and are unhappy with your solicitor, the good news is that it’s easy to switch. Switalskis will handle the process on your behalf, and pick up your claim where it left off. Find out more about how we can help in our guide to switching solicitors.

Why Switalskis?

When you're seeking compensation for any type of injury, it's essential to have a legal team that you can trust to guide you through the process. At Switalskis, our expert personal injury solicitors understand the impact of a cycling accident involving a motor vehicle, both physically and psychologically. We're dedicated to providing compassionate support to help you secure compensation and maximise your recovery. We offer:

Clarity in complexity

Personal injury compensation claims can seem overwhelming, but we can help to simplify the process. We'll take on the bulk of the legal responsibility, and break down any confusing legal jargon to make sure you understand what's happening with your claim. We'll use straightforward language throughout, and we'll remain available to answer your questions so you can move forward with confidence.

Empathy at every step

At Switalskis, we know that vulnerable road users can feel shaken up after a collision with a bigger vehicle. It's not just about the physical injuries - it's about the emotional and impact, which is just as important. Our solicitors recognise that you're a person navigating a challenging period, who may be dealing with a life-changing situation, and we're here to offer all the support you need.

Expertise you can trust

Switalskis solicitors have years of experience and a consistent track record of success in compensation claims for cyclists hit by vehicles. Whether you have a minor soft tissue injury, a broken wrist or something much more severe, like puncture wounds, we know how to present your claim to secure the compensation you're owed. Thanks to our expertise, you can have faith that we're the right firm to help you and we’ll do whatever we can to help.

Championing your rights

If you have the right to compensation, we're dedicated to upholding that right and making your voice heard throughout the claims process. We'll stand by your side until we can deliver a successful resolution, and lend you our knowledge and support to enable you to make informed decisions.

What are the types of personal injury claims?

Personal injury claims come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own set of rules, challenges and considerations. At Switalskis, we've got the expertise to handle a wide range of personal injury claims. Here's a quick rundown of the various types of personal injury claims we can help you with:

Find out how Switalskis can help you

If you have been injured in an accident that wasn't your fault, don't suffer in silence. Contact the experts at Switalskis for information on how you can claim compensation, or to start the process. Call us on 0800 138 0458 or get in touch via the website .

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