Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users in the UK. If you've been hit by a vehicle, you have strong legal rights to compensation. Here's everything you need to know.

Can cyclists claim compensation after an accident?

Yes, and the law strongly protects cyclists. If you were hit by a motor vehicle and the accident was not your fault, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries, your bike repair or replacement, and any out-of-pocket expenses caused by the accident.

Cyclists do not need to have been wearing a helmet, hi-vis clothing or any other safety equipment to make a valid claim. Your right to compensation depends on fault, not on what you were wearing.

What cyclists can claim after a non-fault accident

  • Bicycle repair or replacement: at no cost to you
  • Personal injury compensation: for pain, suffering and loss of amenity
  • Loss of earnings: if your injuries prevented you from working
  • Medical expenses: physiotherapy, treatment costs
  • Travel expenses: costs of getting to medical appointments
  • Damaged clothing and equipment: helmet, cycling clothing, phone, bags
  • Psychological injury: anxiety and PTSD following a traumatic accident

Common types of cyclist accidents we handle

Road Claim helps cyclists involved in all types of accidents, including:

  • Dooring: a car driver opens their door into your path
  • Junction accidents: a vehicle pulls out and hits you
  • Rear end collision: a vehicle drives into the back of you
  • Overtaking accidents: a vehicle passes too close and clips you
  • Roundabout accidents: a vehicle fails to give way
  • Hit and run: you can still claim through the Motor Insurers' Bureau

How much compensation can a cyclist claim?

Compensation amounts depend on the severity of your injuries. As a guide, the Judicial College Guidelines suggest:

  • Minor soft tissue injuries (whiplash, bruising): £1,000 – £4,000
  • Moderate cycling injuries (fractures, more serious soft tissue): £4,000 – £25,000
  • Serious injuries (broken bones, multiple fractures): £25,000 – £100,000+
  • Catastrophic injuries (spinal, brain): £100,000 – £500,000+

These are general guides only. Your specialist solicitor will assess your specific injuries and circumstances to provide an accurate estimate.

Do I need a bike to make a claim?

No, you do not need to provide a vehicle registration for a bicycle claim. When you submit through Road Claim, simply describe your bicycle (make, model, colour) and we will handle the rest. There is no DVLA lookup required for bicycles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I wasn't wearing a helmet when I was hit?⌄
Not wearing a helmet does not prevent you from making a claim, though it could potentially reduce your compensation for head injuries under contributory negligence. Our solicitors will advise you on your specific situation.
Can I claim if I was cycling in a cycle lane?⌄
Yes. Whether you were in a cycle lane, on a road or on a shared path, if a motor vehicle hit you and was at fault, you can claim.
How long does a cyclist compensation claim take?⌄
Simple claims with minor injuries may settle in 3-6 months. More complex claims with serious injuries can take 12-24 months. Our solicitors keep you updated throughout the process.