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ROAD TRAFFIC COLLISIONs

The number of people cycling in the UK is ever increasing. Whilst these numbers are great for the environment and great for cycling as a sport; it means the number of vulnerable road users are also growing.  

If you are a cyclist who has been involved in a road bike incident, accident or collision with a vehicle, we are here to assist you.

Our legal team has represented thousands of cyclists, and gone on to successfully obtain compensation for not only injuries sustained; but also for other costs including loss of earnings, medical assistance, and damage to the bike and kit.

In most cases, we can assist you with a claim at no initial cost to you. Almost all 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. 

BIKE OWNERSHIP

Research conducted by National Transport Agency (NTA) has revealed that nearly half of the population in England have access to a bicycle. 47% of people aged 5 and over owned or had access to a bicycle in 2020, an increase compared to the 3-year average of 42% for 2017 which was 19 %. 

While bicycle ownership remains most prevalent amongst people under 17 years old, an increase was seen across all age groups.

 

Bicycle Ownership By Age

SHIFT IN RIDING HABITS

Trends in cycling for leisure and utility (that is, work and education) have generally followed the same trend since 2005, with cycling for utility purposes greater than leisure cycling between 2005 and 2019. In 2020, bike rides for leisure purposes were greater than utility purposes for the first time. The reduction in the number of people commuting to work and school by bike dropped following lockdown, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the population encouraged to stay at home.

Purpose of Cycling Trips 2015

Purpose of Cycling Trips 2020

GEOGRAPHIC

Cambridge has the highest percentage of cyclists in the UK – 54% of its population, followed by Oxford (39%) and the Isles of Scilly (35%). 

In terms of sheer volume of cyclists, London is the most popular cycling city in the UK (853,000 cyclists), with Hackney being the borough with most cyclists- 57,000 (26% of the area’s population). 

The local authority with, by far, the highest prevalence for cycling at least once a week was Cambridge (57%), followed by Oxford (39%) and Isles of Scilly (35%). 

Only 15 authorities had more than 20% of their adult population cycling at least once a week. 

Havering had the lowest percentage of it’s population cycling once a week, at 3%.

Local Area Cycling Rates

*Data collected from National Travel Survey and Active Lives Survey

HOW WE CAN HELP

Whilst cycling accident claims can be complex and it will not always be initially obvious who is at fault, we are committed to assisting the nation’s cyclists and we will work tirelessly to obtain justice for those involved in road cycling accidents.

For further information on how we can be of assistance to you, or to begin your claim, call us for free on 0808 100 9995 and talk to one of our specialist solicitors. Our team is ready and waiting to provide assistance.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

According to the World Health Organization, road traffic collisions are a leading cause of death and injury worldwide, and cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users. In 2018, it was estimated that 1.3 million people died as a result of road traffic collisions globally, and between 20 and 50 million more were injured or disabled. During the year 2022, there were 99 cyclist fatalities. In many countries, the most common causes of cycling road traffic collisions include speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, and failure to yield the right of way to cyclists. However, the specific causes can vary widely depending on the region and local traffic conditions. It’s important for cyclists to be aware of the most common causes of collisions in their area and take steps to mitigate the risks. For expert advice on cycling road traffic accidents, call 0808 100 9995.
Studies have shown that there are several effective measures that can help prevent cycling road traffic collisions. One of the most important measures is to create dedicated cycling infrastructure such as protected bike lanes, which can significantly reduce the risk of collisions with motor vehicles. Other measures include implementing lower speed limits for motor vehicles, providing cyclist education and training programs, increasing driver awareness of cyclists on the road, and improving vehicle design and technology to reduce the risk of collisions. Those who need expert advice on cycling road traffic accidents should call 0808 100 9995.
When sharing the road with motorists, cyclists can take several steps to stay safe and minimise the risk of collisions. Here are a few tips:
  • Always wear a properly fitting helmet and high-visibility clothing.
  • Use hand signals to communicate with motorists and make your intentions clear.
  • Stay alert and avoid distractions, such as listening to music or using your phone.
  • Ride in a straight line and obey traffic signals and signs.
  • Stay visible by using lights and reflectors, especially at night.
  • Watch out for parked cars, which can be a source of sudden danger if a door opens unexpectedly.
  • Position yourself to be seen by motorists, such as taking the middle of the lane when necessary.
  • Be prepared to take evasive action, such as braking or swerving, if necessary.
By following these tips, cyclists can reduce their risk of being involved in a road traffic collision with a motorist. However, it is important to note that no amount of caution can completely eliminate the risk of collisions, and that infrastructure improvements and changes in driver behaviour are also crucial for improving road safety for cyclists. You can reach an expert on cycling road traffic accidents by calling 0808 100 9995.
In the UK, cyclists have legal rights and protections in the event of a road traffic collision. If you have been involved in a cycling road traffic collision, you may be entitled to compensation for any injuries or damage to your bicycle. It is important to gather as much evidence as possible in the aftermath of a cycling road traffic collision, including the details of any witnesses and the driver’s insurance information. You should also report the incident to the police and seek medical attention for any injuries. If you wish to pursue a claim for compensation, you may wish to seek legal advice from a personal injury solicitor who specialises in cycling accidents. CycleSOS will be able to advise you on the strength of your case and guide you through the legal process. If you need help or advice, simply contact our team on 0808 100 9995.
Improvements to cycling infrastructure have been shown to reduce the risk of cycling road traffic collisions. This can include dedicated bike lanes, junction redesigns, and other measures that aim to make cycling safer and more accessible. Research has found that these types of infrastructure improvements can lead to a reduction in cycling casualties, and can also encourage more people to cycle. Governments and local authorities in many countries have implemented cycling infrastructure improvements as a way to promote sustainable transportation options and reduce the risk of cycling road traffic collisions. Contact an expert in cycling road traffic accidents at 0808 100 9995.