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Cycling accidents on a roundabout

At Cycle SOS, we know full well the dangers that roundabouts present to cyclists. If you have suffered from a cycling accident on a roundabout, then our specialist solicitors can be of assistance.

Why do roundabouts present so much of a hazard to cyclists?

The purpose of roundabouts is to aid traffic flow in a manner which conventional junctions, controlled or otherwise, do not. That intention poses a risk to cyclists due to being less conspicuous compared with a larger vehicle when the cyclist’s smaller silhouette can easily be lost against the general background. Bright clothing and lights are all recommended to increase the chances of being seen. It’s also important to wear a helmet as this will protect you in an accident.

Entering the roundabout

One of the greatest risks on roundabouts is when passing the entry ‘give way’ markings where traffic is entering the roundabout. Drivers prefer not to stop (just as do cyclists), but the entry speed may be too high to permit vehicles’ stopping if a cyclist is only seen at the last moment, especially if the speed limit on the approach is greater than 30mph. In the absence of other traffic, some driving manuals suggest taking the shortest route between entrance and exit, so effectively straight lining the roundabout, which involves lane changes on entry and exit. A driver intent on trimming a couple of seconds from the journey time may not have cyclists’ well-being at the forefront of the mind! Highway Authorities could improve safety by ensuring that vegetation reducing an approaching driver’s field of vision is trimmed back.

Exiting the roundabout

The second high risk is where traffic changes lanes to exit a roundabout. Drivers intending to take the second, third or beyond junction may place their cars in Lane 2 which necessitates crossing Lane 1 to exit. That manoeuvre aside, vehicles shouldn’t really be changing lanes but for a variety of reasons do! The temptation especially for the less experienced or confident cyclist is to hug the nearside kerb on the outer circumference, but this is potentially dangerous for two reasons: first, through exposure to traffic entering over the Give Way lines and second by reducing the chance of being seen by those drivers. It is preferable to ride in a position where a driver entering the roundabout would be looking for cars, which means towards the centre of the lane. It’s vital to have selected the correct gear to permit acceleration out of difficulty while maintaining a reasonable speed without too high a cadence.

The Highway Code

The Highway Code allows cyclists to remain in Lane 1 even if they are taking the second or third exit, but with the express instruction that a signal must be given indicating intention to remain on the roundabout when approaching an exit which the cyclist’s road positioning might otherwise suggest they are intending to take. The most thorough analysis we have seen on roundabout technique for cyclists is in Cyclecraft by John Franklin which is recommended reading for Bikeability students.

Why choose Cycle SOS to represent you?

Following a cycling accident, it can sometimes be a challenge for an untrained observer to determine the cause and who is at fault. For this reason, we have a skilled team at Cycle SOS, who are not only cyclists themselves but are also trained in accident investigation and reconstruction techniques to assist you in compiling all the evidence required to bring a successful claim. Established in 1988, we have helped many cyclists who have been involved in cycling accidents, many of which were caused by the hazards of a roundabout. As we are cyclists ourselves, we know the dangers the roads present and have seen first-hand, the consequences that cyclist road accidents can have on both the cyclist and on their families. If you have been affected by the death of someone close to you in a cycling accident and are making a claim on their behalf, we are here to provide you with the support and assistance to ease your suffering.

How much will it cost to make a claim?

In the majority of cases, we can assist you with a claim at no initial cost to you. Almost all of our cyclist road accident claims are funded through a Conditional Fee Agreement. More commonly known as a no win, no fee* agreement, this will mean you will only pay for our services if you are successful in your claim, and even then our costs are capped to ensure there is no financial risk to you. When claiming for compensation, we will always take into consideration all factors of the accident. In addition to obtaining compensation for the injuries sustained, we will also look to obtain compensation for other costs including loss of earnings, medical assistance and damage to the bike and kit. Whether you’re ready to pursue a claim for compensation for a cycling accident or simply to seek more information or advice, call us for free on 0808 100 9995. As the cyclist’s national helpline, our friendly and knowledgeable team are waiting to provide you with assistance.

Handling a Collision Involving Injury

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For cyclists who have been involved in an accident on a roundabout, there are a number of resources available to provide support and assistance. This includes contacting the police to report the incident, seeking medical attention if needed, and contacting a specialist bike injury solicitor for legal advice. If you have been involved in a cycling accident at a roundabout that wasn’t your fault, contact our team on 0808 100 9995 for expert advice.
According to the UK Department for Transports “Reported road casualties in Great Britain” study for 2021, the most common type of cycling accident on roads were caused by the driver or rider failing to look properly. And pedal cycle fatalities at roundabouts represent 5% of all fatalities. For expert advice on cycling accidents at roundabouts, please call our team on 0808 100 9995.
Cycling accidents on roundabouts are more likely to occur during peak traffic hours, particularly in the morning and evening rush hours. However, the likelihood of accidents can also depend on factors such as weather conditions and the design of the roundabout. It is important for cyclists to remain vigilant and follow proper safety protocols when navigating roundabouts, regardless of the time of day. Call our team of experts on 0808 100 9995 if you are involved in a cycling accident at a roundabout.
Common mistakes that cyclists make when navigating roundabouts include not signalling correctly, failing to take the correct position on the road, and failing to look properly. By signalling in advance, positioning yourself in the middle lane and wearing bright reflective clothing, cyclists can help to reduce the risk of accidents on roundabouts. For more information about cycling accidents on roundabouts, contact our team of experts on 0808 100 9995.

In the event of a roundabout collision between a cyclist and another vehicle, assessing culpability is dependent on the unique conditions and acts of both parties. Under UK law, all road users, including cyclists and drivers, are responsible for their own and others’ safety.

To determine fault in a roundabout collision involving a cyclist and another vehicle, a thorough examination of the exact incident is required, taking into account witness testimony, accessible evidence (such as CCTV footage or accident reconstruction), and applicable traffic laws. Insurance companies, the police, or legal professionals may assist in determining liability.

If you were a cyclist involved in an accident at a roundabout, you should acquire as much evidence as possible, including witness accounts, photographs of the accident area, and any available CCTV or dashcam footage. Seeking legal advice from a personal injury solicitor can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal system, and pursue a compensation claim if necessary.

Call 0808 100 9995 and speak to one of our specialist solicitors. We’re here to help. You can email us or schedule a callback.

The Highway Code was updated in 2022 to ensure cyclists have priority on roundabouts. Other changes include the ability for cyclists to stay in the left-hand lane throughout the duration of their time on the roundabout. When approaching a roundabout, motorists must be cautious not to cut across cyclists, horse riders, or horse-drawn vehicles in the left-hand lane.

According to Cycling UK, as a cyclist you should “take your lane when nearing and negotiating a roundabout.” 

Taking your lane, or riding in what is known as the primary position involves riding in the centre of the lane; this helps improve visibility. Learn more about positioning here

The Highway Code was updated in 2022, giving cyclists more priority while navigating a roundabout. This change stipulates that those driving or riding motorcycles should not attempt to overtake people cycling within that person’s lane. Those driving or riding motorcycles should also allow people cycling to move across their path as they travel around the roundabout.

If you were hurt as a cyclist in an accident involving a car on a roundabout, you should gather evidence such as witness accounts, photographs of the area, and any relevant medical records.

Reporting the incident to the police and getting legal advice from a personal injury solicitor will help you understand your rights and choices for pursuing compensation for your injuries and any other losses you may have suffered. For more information about our services or to start your claim, call 0808 100 9995 and speak to one of our specialist solicitors. We’re here to help. You can email us or schedule a callback.

Emily Pheysey

Litigation Executive

Emily has over 7 years of experience in the legal sector, handling road traffic accident claims to recover compensation and support her clients. Her focus is to ensure all clients feel comfortable and at ease with the claims process so that they can focus on their recovery.

Emily considers rapport to be an essential part of the role and strives to always provide excellent client care.

Away from work, Emily enjoys spending time with her family and friends and travelling as much possible.

Diane Holderness

Litigation Executive

Diane is a Ministry of Justice (TOJ) Team Leader within our Cycle Department. She has 11 years’ experience managing road traffic accident claims, and 6 years’ experience managing MOJ claims.

Diane enjoys a challenge and always strives for the very best results for her customers; something that is clear in the way her team continually adapts its strategies in order to secure the most desired outcome. Diane has worked her way through the legal ranks here, and is proud to now have a strong, specialist team that is committed to customer satisfaction.

Diane believes that happy clients make a happy working environment, and it is this that ensures a productive and efficient workforce.

Nina Haddock

Chartered Legal Executive

Nina has over 30 years’ experience in the legal sector. She specialises in recovering compensation for injury claimants as a result of road traffic accidents. Her focus for each and every claim is to help her clients secure the funding that they need to pay for ongoing treatment and support.

Nina became a CILEX Fellow in 2006 and now helps her clients and their families at a time when they have been through a traumatic experience, and everything they hold dear to them appears to be changing.

One case Nina is particularly proud of is supporting a client who had successfully sought asylum in the UK, following a road traffic accident. The claim was successfully pursued through the MIB and the client was left with significant injuries. Her client was able to use the compensation to aid family members with their applications to seek asylum in the UK.

Julian Fox

Cycling Accident Solicitor

Julian qualified as a Solicitor in 2005 and has worked in all areas of personal injury since 2000. Julian has a well-rounded understanding of personal injury law, having represented both claimants and defendants.

Julian always aims for maximum damages to meet his clients’ needs for injury and rehabilitation expenses, and can often secure interim payments to help meet clients’ financial needs. Julian is highly proactive in ensuring cases are progressed, ensuring a timely conclusion.

When not at the office, Julian is a keen cyclist, both on roads and virtually -he will often do an hour of ‘Zwifting’ in the mornings before starting work.

Richard Atherton

Cycling Accident Solicitor

Richard has 12 years of legal experience and qualified as a Solicitor in February 2014. He has been a Team Manager with us since 2019. Throughout his career, Richard has specialised in personal injury, handling an array of Road Traffic Accident cases, in addition to employer and public liability.

Richard prides himself on his very strong strategic and planning skills, which come into their own in complex injury cases where more technical arguments are involved. On every case, he is committed to ensuring that his clients receive full compensation for their injuries.

Away from work, Richard enjoys sport; he is a season ticket holder at St Helens Rugby Club and a Liverpool FC fan. Not only a spectator, Richard also likes going to play golf as often as he can.

Dave Gardner

Litigation Executive

Dave has over 20 years of experience in the legal sector. His specialism is personal injury and he has dealt with hundreds of cycling injury claims during his career. Excellent client care and communication is paramount to Dave. He prides himself on being accessible and available, attending court hearings where damages are in dispute to ensure the best outcome for his clients. One case Dave is particularly proud of is when he supported an elderly client who suffered serious injuries following a road traffic incident. The police had not taken any action against the defendant, so Dave had to be proactive and act within a 24-hour window. The case proceeded and the client was in receipt of £30,000 in damages, which he would not have been entitled to had the client not approached Dave. He is also an avid supporter of Glasgow Rangers and travelled abroad on many occasions to see them play in European competitions.

Gerard Horton

Partner

Gerard is a Senior Solicitor at Cycle SOS. In his 13 years of experience, Gerard has built a national reputation in the catastrophic injury sector, dealing with high value and complex cases. Alongside his legal role, Gerard supports several charities including Headway Central Lancashire, Northwest Regional Spinal Injuries Centre and spinal injury charity, Back Up.

Julia Eyton

Partner

Julia brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Cycle SOS team.

Specialising in representing those who have had life changing injuries, Julia handles some of the most serious and complex personal injury cases both within Cycle SOS and nationally.

She often works on high value claims and is skilled in winning complex liability cases.

NADIA KERR

Partner

Nadia has over 30 years of legal expertise and has represented hundreds of vulnerable road users. With a focus on ensuring timely rehabilitation, speedy repair or replacement of bikes and kit, and securing fair compensation, Nadia is committed to advocating for justice and client rights. Alongside her legal career, Nadia actively participates in national campaigns to benefit vulnerable road users and acts as a Trustee/Director for the national cycling charity, Cycling UK. Nadia was named in Cycling UK’s ‘100 women’ and was a founding member, now running a women’s cycling group, TeamGlow in South Manchester. Among her many achievements, Nadia takes pride in her spot on BBC Breakfast, where she provided expert commentary on long term government funding for pothole repairs.

Caroline Morris

DIRECTOR OF SERIOUS INJURY

Caroline has specialised in personal injury for over 25 years, recovering more than £56 million in damages during that time, to help clients rebuild their lives after injury.

Caroline is committed to achieving rehabilitation options early, meaning her clients benefits from the best care and treatment at the earliest stage possible.