If you’ve been hit by a car while cycling, you could be entitled to compensation, even if you were partly at fault.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand your rights and walk you through the most common cycling compensation FAQs. We’ll explain how to start a claim, the evidence you’ll need, how long it may take and whether it could affect your insurance.
Whether you’re recovering from a serious cycling injury or just want clarity after a scare, you don’t have to face it alone. Injury Lawyers 4u are here to help.
Can I claim if I was hit by a car while cycling?
If a driver’s negligence caused your accident, you could be entitled to make a personal injury claim. This applies whether you were commuting, training or riding for leisure.
To make a successful claim, you’ll need to show that the driver acted carelessly or failed to follow the rules of the road. This could include things like speeding, failing to give way or not checking mirrors before turning. You can claim for:
- Physical injuries.
- Psychological trauma.
- Loss of earnings.
- Repair or replacement costs.
- Other out-of-pocket expenses.
Worried you were partly to blame? You might still have a claim. Under UK law, cyclists who share some responsibility can still receive compensation. It may just be reduced to reflect their share of the fault.
How long do I have to make a bike accident claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of your cycling accident to make a personal injury claim in the UK. This time limit is set by law and missing it could mean losing your right to compensation.
There are exceptions. If the injured cyclist is under 18, the time limit doesn’t begin until their 18th birthday. For adults who lack the mental capacity to handle legal matters, there’s no time limit unless that capacity returns.
It’s always best to act sooner rather than later. The more time passes, the harder it can be to gather reliable evidence or contact witnesses. Starting early gives your solicitor the best chance to build a strong case.
What evidence do I need to prove a cycling claim?
To make a strong cycling injury claim, you’ll need to gather clear, reliable evidence. This helps show what happened, who was at fault, and how the accident has affected your life. Key evidence includes:
- Photos of the scene, your injuries, and any bike damage.
- Medical records detailing your injuries and treatment.
- Police reports, if officers attended the scene or you reported the incident.
- Helmet cam or CCTV footage, if available.
- Witness statements from anyone who saw the crash.
This evidence can support your case by proving negligence, showing the severity of your injuries and documenting any financial losses you’ve suffered, like missed work or repair costs.
Can I claim for bicycle damage as well as personal injury?
If you’ve been in a cycling accident that wasn’t your fault, you can usually claim for damage to your bike and gear as part of your personal injury claim. This can include:
- Repair or replacement costs for your bike.
- Damaged clothing or safety equipment, like your helmet, shoes or accessories.
You won’t need to make a separate claim, property damage is typically included in the overall compensation package.
How much compensation will I get for a cycling injury?
The amount of compensation you could receive depends on the details of your injury and how it’s affected your life. In the UK, claims are typically divided into two parts:
- General damages — This covers the pain, suffering and loss of amenity caused by your injury.
- Special damages — This covers financial losses, like medical bills or lost income.
Factors that influence compensation include:
- The type of injury and its severity.
- How long it takes you to recover.
- Whether your injuries affect your ability to work, cycle or enjoy everyday activities.
- Ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation needs.
Solicitors use the Judicial College Guidelines to estimate compensation for physical injuries. For a clearer idea of what your claim might be worth, try our compensation calculator or speak to a legal expert.
Do I need legal representation to file a cycle claim?
You don’t have to use a solicitor but having professional legal support can make a big difference. Personal injury claims can be complex, especially if fault is disputed or injuries are serious. An experienced solicitor can help by:
- Gathering the right evidence to support your case.
- Dealing with insurers and legal paperwork.
- Negotiating for fair compensation that reflects your losses.
At Injury Lawyers 4u, we work on a no win, no fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything upfront, and there’s no cost if your claim isn’t successful. It’s a way to get expert help without the financial risk.
What if I was partly at fault for the accident?
Even if you think you were partly to blame, you might still be able to claim compensation — this is known as contributory negligence. And it means your compensation could be reduced based on your share of the fault. Examples of contributory negligence:
- Not wearing high-visibility clothing.
- Riding slightly outside of the designated cycle lane.
- Not using lights at night.
These factors might affect how much compensation you receive, but they don’t necessarily stop you from claiming.
If you’re unsure how much blame you might carry, speak to our experts. They can help assess your case and protect your rights, so you’re not unfairly blamed or undercompensated.
Will my insurance premium increase after a claim?
If you’re claiming against the driver’s insurance after a cycling accident, it usually won’t affect your own insurance premiums, especially if you’re not at fault. However, your premiums might change if you:
- Make a claim on your own bike insurance.
- Use personal accident cover from a private insurer.
Each policy is different, so it’s worth checking the terms or speaking to your provider directly. They can explain how a claim might impact your future costs.
The key thing to remember? Claiming for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence shouldn’t penalise you financially. It’s your right to seek compensation.
How can Injury Lawyers 4u help?
If you’ve been injured while cycling, you could be entitled to compensation. Our expert team can guide you through every step of your claim, from gathering evidence to negotiating the best possible outcome.
We work on a no win, no fee basis, so there’s nothing to pay upfront and no financial risk if your claim isn’t successful. Ready to talk? Our friendly team is here to help when you get in touch.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim if the driver didn’t stop after hitting me?
You may still be able to claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau, which covers uninsured and untraced drivers.
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet during my accident?
Not wearing a helmet might affect the amount of compensation but it doesn’t automatically prevent a claim.
Can I claim for emotional distress after a cycling accident?
Psychological injuries like PTSD, anxiety or trauma can be included in your personal injury claim if properly diagnosed.
How long do cycling accident claims take to settle in the UK?
It depends on the case, but straightforward claims may settle in a few months. More complex cases can take longer.
Will claiming affect my cycling club membership or insurance?
Making a personal injury claim shouldn’t affect your cycling club membership. However, insurance implications vary by policy, so check with your provider.
Are these answers relevant for e-scooter accidents too?
Many of the same principles apply with e-scooter claims. If you’ve been injured while riding an e-scooter, and someone else was at fault, you could be entitled to compensation. Whether it was a vehicle collision, poor road conditions or faulty equipment, it’s worth getting legal advice or looking for e-scooter injury FAQs.