A Guide on What to Do After a Cycling Accident

Whether you’re looking to become more active for health reasons or you need a bike to travel for work, cycling is a great mode of transportation and exercise. There are many benefits to getting around by bike, however, cycling accidents are increasingly common. Every year, more than 100 cyclists die on UK roads or suffer injury.

Experiencing an accident is every cyclist’s worst fear but being familiar with what to do afterwards can bring you some peace of mind. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to be taken after a cycling accident, from seeking medical attention to enlisting legal advice.

Prioritise safety and seek medical attention

Regardless of any damage done to the bike, your safety is of the utmost importance. In 2022 alone, 4,056 cyclists were reported to be seriously injured during cycling accidents so it’s important that you get yourself out of further harm’s way.

Delayed onset injuries such as whiplash and head conditions are common after road collisions so you should seek medical assistance, even if you haven’t got any visible injuries. Remember to document any injuries incurred as this will be critical evidence if you choose to proceed with legal action.

Document the scene and gather information

For both legal and insurance purposes, it’s important to collect the other party’s details and take photos of any damage. If a driver is involved, take down the vehicle registration, alongside the car’s make, colour and model. You should also get the driver’s name, address and insurance details if possible.

Taking photos of the damage and getting the contact details of any nearby witnesses will strengthen your case. These details are crucial if your case goes to court so make sure to get photos from different angles. You should also document any potholes or external factors that contributed to the collision.

Reporting the incident and seeking legal guidance

You should report the accident to the police, especially if a motor vehicle is involved. Contact the authorities and request an incident number – this will be important if you’re considering pursuing a road accident claim.

If you believe the accident in question wasn’t your fault, you could contact a solicitor to enlist some legal guidance. They will advise you on whether you have a claim for compensation and guide you in the claims process. Even if you don’t have a criminal case, they can pursue a civil claim on your behalf.