In March 2023, our client a Cycling UK member who is a 50-year-old postal worker and experienced cyclist was injured in a road traffic collision while cycling home after work. The weather was clear and dry, and our client who was wearing a high-visibility uniform and helmet, was taking his usual route home.
While approaching a junction, he correctly positioned himself in the centre of the left-hand lane to travel straight ahead. After the lights turned green and the road narrowed, he began preparing to turn right and signalled his intention appropriately. At that point, a vehicle attempted to dangerously overtake him far too closely. As the vehicle merged back into the lane, it clipped his handlebars, causing him to fall onto the road.
The driver stopped and admitted trying to “give space,” but offered no help before leaving the scene. Our client sustained a fractured right clavicle, requiring surgery, as well as other soft tissue injuries and psychological effects. He was unable to work or drive for several weeks and needed assistance with daily tasks during his recovery.
Cycle SOS stepped in to help
Knowing that he needed help to pursue a legal claim he contacted Cycle SOS through the Cycling UK Member Incident Line. We took all the information and started work trying to help.
Despite clear medical evidence and consistent evidence, the claim was initially denied but we felt that this was not the right decision so started to fight for our client and proceeded to trial. Prior to the hearing, two offers were made to the Defendant in an attempt to resolve the matter before the trial. Even in the final days before trial, efforts were made to open dialogue but the Defendant was unwilling to engage. The Defendants case was that our client simply turned into him as he was passing.
Confident in our client’s version of events and well-prepared for court, we were ready to proceed to trial. However, just before entering the courtroom, a discussion between barristers led to a sensible and strategic agreement: liability was compromised at 65/35 in our client’s favour which basically means that they agreed that our client was 35% at fault but the driver was 65% at fault
This compromise reflected the legal reality that, with no independent witnesses, the Court could reasonably have accepted either account. Our client, who was understandably nervous despite being well prepared, also acknowledged that he couldn’t say for certain whether he had deviated slightly right before the impact.
The claim then settled for just under £20,000, covering our client’s injuries, treatment costs, and loss of earnings. Importantly, as a Cycling UK member, he benefitted from free legal support, saving him approximately £5,000 in legal fees a significant financial and emotional relief.
This case is a powerful example of how Cycling UK membership provides more than just community and advocacy it offers real-world legal protection and peace of mind when it matters most. A great outcome, a happy client, and one of many success stories made possible through the legal benefits of membership.
