Bicycle Accidents

With the possible exception of pedestrians, the road-users most at risk of death or injury are pedal cyclists. Figures issued by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents indicate that on average 15,000 cyclists are involved in reported road accidents in the United Kingdom every year, a figure that includes more than 2,300 killed or seriously injured.

The RoSPA report states that about one quarter of the cyclists killed, and about one third of those injured, are children. Cycling accidents increase as children grow older and peak at around 16 years. To some extent, this reflects increased cycling as children grow older followed by a switch to motorised transport from the late teens onwards. It also co-incides with the age when children attend Secondary school, and may indicate riskier behaviour by this age group.

Most cycling accidents happen in urban areas where most cycling takes place. Nearly three quarters happen at, or near, a road junction with T-junctions being the most commonly involved. Roundabouts are particularly dangerous junctions for cyclists.

Males are more likely to be involved in cycling accidents than females; four out of five cyclist casualties are male.

Around 80% of cycling accidents occur in daylight - which is when most cycling takes place. For child cyclists, 90% of their accidents occur during the day. The most dangerous hours for cyclists are 3.00 to 6.00 p.m. and 8.00 to 9.00 a.m. on weekdays.

More cycle accidents occur during the Spring and Summer months (May to September) than the Autumn and Winter months (October to April). However, the casualty rate in terms of miles travelled is higher over the Autumn and Winter period.

If you have been injured as a cyclist, and feel that you have a valid claim against a third party, contact Macks Solicitors on Freephone 0800 9809 377. This highly experienced firm will steer you expertly through any legal pitfalls and help you recover any compensation that may be due to you.