In September 2021, the UK government released statistics showing that people in the UK are cycling for pleasure more often and cycling further than ever before. This increase in cycling and distance covered has been mirrored with an 11% increase in the number of cyclists seriously or fatally injured in accidents over the last 10 years. Lauren Martin, Personal Injury Lawyer at Thatcher + Hallam said, "Cycling accidents are unfortunately very common, whether due to poor road surfaces or errors of other road users.

The vulnerable nature of cyclists means they are often significantly injured in these types of accidents." One of the most common forms of cycling accident are Road Traffic Collisions. But other common types of cycling accidents include: Accidents resulting from road defects, such as potholes, poor lighting etc. Collisions involving other vehicles – taxis, police vehicles or other cyclists. Car door collisions – drivers exiting vehicles and the car door swinging into the road and in front of a cyclist. Anyone injured by another road user's negligence or dangerous surfaces whilst cycling, whether for pleasure, as a sport or during the commute to and from work, is likely to have the right to claim for compensation.

It is usual that settlement money represents compensation for the injury suffered and also any financial and income losses suffered. Making a claim can also provide the injured person with access to private treatment without cost to themselves during their claim. This can help their post-accident recovery and hopefully brings about the best post-rehabilitation outcome. As cyclists are vulnerable in comparison to the other users they share the roads with, it is sadly not unheard of that post-accident injuries may result in loss of life. If this were to happen, it may be possible for a claim to be made by the cyclist's family under the Fatal Accidents Act.

Lauren added, "The team at Thatcher + Hallam has extensive experience of dealing with cycling accident injury claims, from low impact minor injury claims up to and including catastrophic impact and severe injury claims and fatal accidents. If you wish to discuss a possible claim you can contact the team on 01761 414646 or you may prefer to use the free legal surgery that is held every Thursday evening in the Midsomer Norton office. To book an appointment call the office, or visit the website th-law.co.uk for more information." For more information about personal injury claims or to find out about the free legal surgery available from Thatcher + Hallam visit the website here: