John here again,

Good afternoon and welcome to the latest blog.

We’re all really excited here in Leeds about the start of Le Tour tomorrow.

Perhaps it’s a bit of a downer, but I thought I’d write about one of the potential down sides of cycling – accidents.

We’ve had a rash of cycling accident claims here in recent months, mostly for clients in and around Yorkshire and, specifically, around Leeds. I don’t know why there have been so many in a short space of time, but I thought I could share some common themes and tips for bringing claims.

The latest ROSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) figures show the casualty figures have risen in recent years and they suggest that this is mostly because of the increase in popularity of cycling. That makes sense and staging The Tour De France in Yorkshire has definitely had a big impact upon cycling numbers. I’ve got a strong suspicion that there will be a massive increase in the numbers of cyclists on the roads all summer and maybe beyond if there is a “legacy”.

I hope they all stay safe and that organisers and logistical planners have their wellbeing at heart. Roads are gradually changing and at least thinking about cyclists more, but there is a very long way to go.

ROSPA say 80% of cycling injuries are to males and the most vulnerable group age wise is 10 to 15 year olds. Most accidents are in urban areas. Roundabouts are particularly hazardous, which is predictable.

80% of accidents happen in daylight, but then that is because the vast majority of cycling takes place then.

More accidents numerically actually occur in Spring and Summer, but that is because many more miles are cycled in those milder months. This is confirmed by the fact that per mile cycled, the Winter is statistically the most dangerous time.

Injury patterns confirm that limb injuries are very common. Over 40% of hurt cyclists have arm injuries and about 25% have leg injuries.

Chest and abdominal injuries are more rare, at about 5%, but are more often serious and are often sustained with head injuries too. Again, sad, but not surprising.

Head injuries are common with over 40% of injured cyclists suffering them and they are more often serious. Over 70% of cyclist fatalities in London were due in large part to head injuries.

Injured cyclists almost always come off worst when in collision with any other vehicle and the most common cause of accidents involving them is due to one or both of the parties not looking properly. In my experience, it is much more likely to be the other vehicle driver/rider at fault and not the cyclist. This means that cyclists often have strong compensation claims.

Many cyclists now have head cameras to record other drivers’ behaviour and the footage can often be very helpful with a claim. They are a good idea.

Evidence is the key to most claims and that is just as true in cycling claims. Gathering evidence is sometimes hampered by the fact the cyclist has the more serious injuries. It’s hard to gather witness details and evidence if you are injured. Fortunately, when serious accidents occur the public usually respond well and police attend swiftly.

It always makes sense to contact a good Solicitor pretty swiftly after the accident, so that no evidence is lost. Pick someone, like us, who has a lot of experience of such claims and who will speak to you for free and explain how a claim will be pursued. Give us a call or click on the button below.

Don’t pick a claims factory type of organisation. they are unlikely to have local knowledge that can be crucial and you will probably get passed from pillar to post, rather than getting a personal service.

I wish you happy and safe cycling and hope the Tour en Yorkshire goes well!

I will be at Harewood tomorrow watching with excitement.

John