Every year in this country over 15,000 cyclists are injured in reported road accidents (17% of all hospitalised road traffic casualties); more than 2,300 of whom are killed or seriously injured.

But according to Rospa, between 60 and 90% of cyclist casualties are not reported. This is despite the fact that the vast majority of accidents involving cyclists will have been caused by the negligence of another road user.

Cycling and head injuries

Around three quarters of cycling fatalities involve major head injuries. More than half of all cyclist casualties involve head injuries.

Partner Stuart Kightley and Associate Partner Sophie Davies specialise in head injury claims.

Cycling in London

Cycling can be a risky business, especially in London. It is no coincidence that cyclists in London are more likely to wear a cycle helmet than elsewhere in the UK.

Is London cycling good for your health? Does a cycling helmet make you safer? Osbornes Personal Injury Lawyers Partner Stuart Kightley cycles to work in Camden every day. Read his recent article about London cycling.

The London Cycling Campaign is a voluntary organisation that campaigns for and promotes safe cycling in London.

Cycling accident prevention

The government is not keen on making high visibility clothing compulsory for cyclists (ministerial announcement in 2003) on grounds that there is insufficient public acceptance and because it may discourage cycling. Similarly, there appears to be no appetite for legislation to make cycle helmets compulsory.

Instead we can expect to see more promotion of:

• Cycle Route Networks
• Traffic Calming Schemes
• Improved Driver Awareness and Training
• Cyclist Training eg Bikesafe skills days

If you have been involved in a cycle accident:

• Take down the details of the other party at the scene, including name, address, telephone and insurance details and vehicle registration number.
• Report the matter to the police immediately. If for any reason this is not possible report the accident in person to a police station as soon as you can (and get a reference number)
• Take details of any other party and any witnesses.
• Contact your own insurers, if relevant.
• Contact Osbornes Personal Injury Lawyers as soon as possible for free initial advice

Where do I start my cycling accident claim?

Contact Wendy Wright on 020 7681 8671 or by e-mail to wendywright@osbornes.net. Or Stuart Kightley on 020 7681 8672 or by e-mail to stuartkightley@osbornes.net

We will then discuss the case with you over the phone and if you have a claim we will arrange a free initial interview either here or at your home.

• Whiplash injury claims
• Fatal accident claims
• Personal injury claims for road traffic accidents
• Motorbike accident injury claims
• Rear end shunt injury claims